LCA Groundwork Jan/Feb 2022

J A N U A RY / F E B R U A RY 2 0 2 2

GRO UNDWORK

Plant of the Month— The Opulent Osmanthus Women in Landscaping: Inspiring Growth What Is the Cause of Murky Lake Water?

—GRAND AWARD— Country Waterfront Estate JCLD | Jennifer Connoley Landscape Design

M D•D C•VA

A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E L A N D S C A P E C O N T R A C T O R S A S S O C I AT I O N

J A N U A RY / F E B R U A RY 2 0 2 2

GRO UNDWORK

CONTENTS Calendar of Events

4

President’s Message

5

Plant of the Month—The Opulent Osmanthus

6

2021 Grand Award—Country Waterfront Estate

10

Women in Landscaping: Inspiring Growth

12

What Is the Cause of Murky Lake Water?

20

Advertising Information

22

2022 | ON DEMAND Pesticide and Fertilizer Application Recertification Conference Available Throughout February 2022 See page 19 for more information

PLANT OF THE MONTH

GRAND AWARD

False Holly Osmanthus heterophyllus

Country Waterfront Estate JCLD | Jennifer Connoley Landscape Design

Feature and Plant of the Month articles can also be found online for LCA members under the GROUNDWORK link in your profile home page at www.lcamddcva.org

CALENDAR FEBRUARY 2022 1–28

2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Paul Jester—President

J&G Landscape Design, Inc.—(301) 476-7600

Aaron Raines—Immediate Past President

Live Green Landscape Associates, LLC —(443) 763-8580

Ron Rubin—Vice President SavATree—(703) 625-4400

Jeff Rossen—Secretary/Treasurer JRossen Landscape—(703) 327-2284

Pesticide & Fertilizer Recertification

DIRECTORS

Virtual

Krisjan Berzins

Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape—(703) 921-9200

Matt Glover, CLT

Wray Brothers Landscapes—(301) 906-1571

Josh Kane, CLT

Kane Landscapes, Inc.—(703) 803-3146

Zack Kline

A.I.R.—(240) 772-1639

Robert Lehnhoff

Lehnhoff’s Supply—(443) 921-5789

Kristen Mowery

McHale Landscape Design, Inc.—(240) 508-8056

Scott Pickett, CLT, CPH

Live Green Landscape Associates, LLC—(410) 833-9640

Barry Schneider

Surrounds, Inc.—(703) 906-7600

Jeff Waters

SiteOne Landscape Supply—(240) 375-7470

LCA STAFF Thérèse O. Clemens, CAE, Executive Director Julianne Clarke, Membership Services Manager Julie Hill, Senior Marketing Director Meghan Maker, Marketing Manager Lynne Agoston, Managing Editor Victoria Baltz, Production/Project Coordinator Barbara Bienkowski, CEM, Exhibits/Sponsorship Manager Lynette Randazzo, Meetings Manager Dawn Rosenfeld, Director of Accounting Services Deryck White, Website Manager GROUNDWORK, the official publication of the Landscape

Contractors Association, MD•DC•VA, is published bimonthly by LCA, 1300 Piccard Drive, Suite LL 14, Rockville, MD 20850.

P: (301) 948-0810 F: (301) 990-9771 E: lca@lcamddcva.org W: www.lcamddcva.org.

Office hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–5 pm (EST).

DESIGNED

to grow with you

PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS FOR LESS McCartin Insurance offers liability insurance tailored for landscape contractors.

LCA is not responsible for opinions expressed and facts presented by contributing authors.

Editorial Deadline: The deadline to submit copy is the 20th of the month for the following bimonthly issue and is on a space­­­–available basis.

Advertising & Classifieds: All ads must be high-resolution PDF and pre‑paid.

Contact Barbara Bienkowski at bbienkowski@msp-amc.com for more information and the deadline schedule.

Copyright © 2022: Landscape Contractors Association, MD•DC•VA. Reproduction of any material allowed only with prior written permission from LCA. LCA’s core purpose is to advance the success of its members and provide a community for green industry professionals.

CALL OR VISIT US TODAY TO SAVE!

301-837-1080 / www.mccartin.com GROUNDWORK

4

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Paul Jester, PLA, ASLA 2021 President

Planting a Garden, Believing in 2022!

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and is excited for new opportunities this year. While the past year has remained challenging, our industry has shown resilience and flexibility in adapting to the changing times.

We continue to design, build, and maintain beautiful projects to create landscapes we can all be proud of.

LCA is striving to continue offering educational, networking, and fun activities for us to enjoy and keep building a better tomorrow.

As we look to the future, we want to remember that there are always lessons to be learned from the past.

One person we can learn from is Audrey Hepburn. Ms. Hepburn, a popular actress during the Golden Age of Hollywood, starred in many critically acclaimed films. Two of her most well known being Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) and Sabrina (1954).

She was popular, had a positive reputation, and loved gardening. She would devote herself to gardening and showcased this passion in her final television series, Gardens of the World with Audrey Hepburn (1993).

Audrey Hepburn once said, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”

I have always enjoyed this quote and believe it relates to many aspects of our profession. There is one interpretation of this phrase that implies the idea of cultivating food, flowers, medicinal plants, and other flora for the immediate tomorrow. But my interpretation of this saying has always been more philosophical and reflects the ongoing relationship between ourselves, nature, and the future. It is a cooperative agreement between the three to sustain and support each other. By planting a garden, not only are we able to appreciate the immediate beauty, but we can grow and cultivate that beauty for future generations to enjoy. This garden can be the physical variety containing trees and flowers, or it can be a garden of actions, teachings, and behaviors that we want to pass along. The garden is not only for us, but for those that come after.

As members of LCA, this quote takes on the literal interpretation as we help to plant the gardens in our region. While we continue to plant the physical gardens, keep in mind that there are other types of “gar-

GROUNDWORK

5

dens” we can grow within our companies and communities to create a bright future and positive tomorrow.

Every project we undertake, no matter the size, can foster a hope for a better and greener future for generations to come.

As we move forward into 2022, I wish you and your families good health, good fortune, and happiness!

I hope that all of you have much success during the upcoming year, and I am excited to see the amazing projects you complete during the coming months. Thanks to each and every one of you for your continued involvement in LCA. I look forward to meeting you at our upcoming events—keep an eye out for new opportunities throughout the year.

Let’s continue to plant gardens, believe in tomorrow, and have a great New Year!

Respectfully,

Paul Jester, PLA, ASLA LCA President 2021

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Plant of the Month

The Opulent Osmanthus

By Kelley M. Heim, Garden Gate Landscaping

Gallant and resilient, Osmanthus heterophyllus provides a plethora of benefits when incorporated into the landscape. An eye-catching broadleaf evergreen that is all but completely deer resistant, it’s a wonder that this champion of the garden isn’t more widely used.

While albeit not a native species, and a member of the at-times unpopular olive family, this lovely shrub can withstand a multitude of site issues and does not display the invasive tendencies of its other cousins.

The iridescent navy-blue fruit rarely results in viable seedlings, but some cultivars are the exception. O. heterophyllus ‘Sasaba’ has been found growing true to seed with its peculiar deeply incised leaves, but the one or two seedlings are easily removed by hand, hardly qualifying it as an invasive species, and thus, it should not be regarded as one.

Among the many reasons to use O. heterophyllus is its ability to tolerate

heavy pruning, even with electric shears, and not only live to tell the tale, but brag about it. The extensive range of cultivars can thrive in shade, sun, mild drought, and surface runoff. Also, as with other species of this shrub, O. heterophyllus is resistant to most disease, pests, and fungal problems. In addition, its waxy leaves create a dense and luxurious planting that offers the finest backdrop to any formal garden room and simultaneously invites wildlife to find refuge in its thick foliage.

If another point of persuasion were needed, Osmanthus has a gloriously sweet fragrance that weaves its way into the landscape from its diminutive and unassuming blossoms. Bloom time varies slightly and seems to depend on previous weather patterns, mostly rain and drought. But generally, from the moment GROUNDWORK

6

fall bulb planting begins until the blossoms of the Prunus mume (Japanese apricot) quietly disappear in late winter, Osmanthus may grace us with her tender and sophisticated fragrance.

This versatile shrub comes in a multitude of cultivars varying in growth

New growth on O. heterophyllus ‘Gulftide’.

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Dream Come True

2022

INCREDIBALL

®

Hydrangea arborescens

For gardeners and landscapers, Incrediball® hydrangeas are a dream come true.

Not only do they have super-large blooms on sturdy stems, but they thrive where other hydrangeas fall short. If you’re tired of explaining to customers why their hydrangea doesn’t bloom, sell them success with Incrediball® hydrangeas.

• Native species • Reliable • Long blooming

10'

INCREDIBALL® Blush

INCREDIBALL® and INCREDIBALL® Blush Hydrangea arborescens USDA Zone 3-8, full to part sun 4-5' tall and wide

Available from these suppliers: Bennett’s Creek Nursery Smithfield, VA • 757-483-1425

Eastern Shore Nursery of VA Melfa, VA • 757-787-4732

Northern Neck Nursery Warsaw, VA • 804-333-3981

Shreckhise Nurseries Grottoes, VA • 540-249-5761

Buds & Blooms Nursery Brown Summit, NC • 800-772-2837

Fair View Nursery Wilson, NC • 252-243-3656

Piedmont Carolina Nursery Colfax, NC • 336-993-4114

Spring Run Farm Coatesville, PA • 610-380-1402

Cohansey Nursery Bridgeton, NJ • 856-453-4900

Huber Nurseries Manheim, PA • 717-898-9115

Riggins Nursery Bridgeton, NJ • 856-455-2459

The Ivy Farm Locustville, VA • 757-787-4096

David’s Nursery Exmore, VA • 757-442-7000

Marshall’s Riverbank Nurseries, Salisbury, MD • 410-677-0900

Sepers Nursery Newfield, NJ • 856-691-0597

Zirkles Nursery LLC Bridgeton, NJ • 856-207-3548

Learn more

www.provenwinners-shrubs.com

Plant of the Month continued habit, size, foliage color, and fragrance intensity. A favorite cultivar of this fabulous shrub is O. heterophyllus ‘Goshiki,’ which appears to radiate light from its golden and pink-kissed leaves. Responding well to pruning, new growth has a more blushed tinge than its older foliage.

Another excellent reason to have this gem around is its longevity in cut flower arrangements, including winter containers showcasing pruned branches for seasonal interest. Slow growing but having the ability to become quite the stunning specimen, it can reach 10’ x 10’ if left to its own devices. Collected by Barry Yinger and introduced locally by Brookside Gardens, this beauty is readily available at most nurseries.

significantly smaller leaves and a heavy bloom load. Even less tolerant of wet feet than other cultivars, this darling shrub is sure to stop any in their tracks when flowering.

The fragrance is intoxicating. Originally believed to be a smaller sized plant at 2’ x 2’, estimates now suggest a much larger plant when left alone.

One of the most commonly used O. heterophyllus cultivars is ‘Gulftide,’ introduced by Gulfstream Nursery. This stately selection is very upright and dense, with dark green foliage, and reaching up to 10’, it is an excellent choice for screening.

As deer pressure continues to increase in the region, and changing climates alter weather patterns and challenge the landscape norm, its ever more important that plant selections are made with intention. With graceful foliage, elegant fragrance, and a robust landscape presence, it is undeniable that O. heterophyllus is prepared to weather the storm and does so with panache.

Lastly, O. heterophyllus ‘Party Lights’ is another exciting yet less commonly used cultivar. This enthusiastically named shrub takes the colorful foliage flushing to a new level by sporting fuchsia leaves above the traditional dark green holly-like leaves below. The effect is intriguing but does not persist year-round.

A harder to find but well worth the effort cultivar is O. heterophyllus ‘Kaori Hime,’ or fragrant princess, sporting

O. heterophyllus ‘Goshiki’ hedge.

O. heterophyllus ‘Party Lights’ in December.

GROUNDWORK

8

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

The Perennial Farm Celebrating 42 years in business

Over 1500 Varieties Perennials - Ornamental Grasses - Hardy Ferns Roses - Flowering Shrubs - Flowering Vines - Ground Covers Natives - Succulents - Tropicals - Mr. Big Stuff Phone: 410-592-6106 www.perennialfarm.com

2021 Grand Award

Country Waterfront Estate JCLD | Jennifer Connoley Landscape Design

GROUNDWORK

10

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

This 5,365-square-foot entertaining area on the Eastern Shore of Maryland included the demolition/renovation of an existing pool and pool house, extensive grading, and the installation of a new patio, wood deck, drainage infrastructure, sod, and landscaping. The pool house architecture and materials reflect an elegant feel, with substantial columns flanking the wide steps. The front porch adjoins the side deck and includes steps leading to the path and pool patio. A much larger ivory travertine pool patio was installed in a classic herringbone pattern with formal curves.

Many existing trees were preserved and worked into the landscape plan. A blend of traditional landscape and native plants were used to provide colorful appeal. The property is a peninsula with water on three sides; the plantings were designed to define the space while emphasizing key water views and surrounding vistas.

GROUNDWORK

11

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Women in Landscaping: Inspiring Growth The landscaping industry has always been dominated by males, but times are changing. Women comprise more and more of the landscaping industry workforce every year. According to data compiled by Data USA, women made up 10.1 percent of the landscaping workforce in 2019, up from 8.23 percent in 2014. From landscape design to environmental construction to pest control, and a myriad of other specialty areas, women are establishing their place in the landscaping arena.

Groundwork spoke with three females from LCA member companies who work in various disciplines within the industry. We discussed how they got into the industry, challenges to being a woman working in a male-dominated industry, favorite projects, and other interesting aspects of their work.

Jennifer Connoley studied horticulture and landscape management at the University of Maryland Institute of Applied Agriculture and Landscape Design at George Washington University. She has worked in the landscape industry for over 40 years. For the past 15 years, Jennifer has been living in Easton, Maryland, designing, installing, and maintaining sustainable landscapes for her clients on the Eastern Shore. She has worked in environmental construction, designing and managing the installation of wetlands, ponds, bioretention facilities, and stream and shoreline restoration projects.

“Empire State” of New York), joined together on a journey to establish and build Empire Landscape, LLC, focusing on installing and maintaining environmental restoration construction projects using sound natural resource management techniques.

During her free time, Lynette loves to spend time with her family and friends and enjoys hiking, playing soccer, woodworking, and gardening.

Heather Zindash is a Professional Integrated Pest Management Scout & Consu lt a nt, a Cer t i fie d P rofe s siona l Horticulturalist, and an ISA Certified Arborist. Her company, The Soulful Gardener, helps growers, landscape professionals, and commercial and residential property owners protect their plants by properly identifying pests and diseases and providing environmentally conscience management solutions.

Lynette Hallgren Scaffidi is an experienced professional with compassion for the natural world and extensive education and experience in environmental construction. She graduated from the University of Maryland with an M.S. in animal science–wildlife habitat management and a B.S. in natural resource management, and she posesses numerous professional accreditations.

Heather is a popular regional speaker who has lectured at numerous professional organizations, businesses, and special interest groups. She entertains and educates audiences with original photos, videos, and stories based on personal experience, formal education, and specialized training. She is also the president of the Maryland Bluebird Society and Ladies in the Landscape, which supports women working in horticulture and related professions.

Lynette is retired from a career with Montgomery County Parks, where she worked as a park naturalist and natural resources manager involved with invasive species management and reforestation programs in local parks.

After retiring, Lynette and her two business partners, Eric Goodrich and William “Bill” Dowling (all born in the GROUNDWORK

12

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Women in Landscaping: Inspiring Growth

continued

Edamarie Mattei is the owner of Backyard Bounty, a landscape design/build/ maintain firm in Silver Spring, and is an acknowledged expert in native plants, stormwater management, and organic landscape design. She has created hundreds of gardens in the D.C. area that promote native species, provide wildlife habitat, and each year prevent over 5 million gallons of stormwater from running into our creeks and rivers and the Chesapeake Bay.

of the properties are waterfront with extensive environmental requirements and often include pools, water features, patios, decks, walkways, and garden structures.

LS: Empire Landscape was founded by me and my two partners, Eric Goodrich and Bill Dowling. The three of us officially started in 2005 around the time that I was retiring from my career as a park naturalist and natural resource manager for Montgomery County Parks. At the time, my partners were working with a local stream restoration contractor and collectively had a rich background in landscape and environmental restoration work. The three of us together wanted to provide a WBE/MBE/DBE company that is not only experienced, capable, and passionate about environmental restoration work, but also uniquely specialized in a wide range of environmental restoration services. Among our four divisions, we have expertise in reforestation, invasive species management, green infrastructure and stormwater management, erosion and sediment control construction, habitat restoration (including meadow establishment and maintenance, vernal pools, and microtopography), Chesapeake Bay restoration planting, hydroseeding, specialty ecosystem seeding, arborist services, clearing and grubbing, and native landscaping.

Edamarie started gardening when her children were young as a way to introduce them to nature and find a source for organic food. Prior to Backyard Bounty, she was an English teacher in Montgomery County, the San Francisco Bay Area, and the South Bronx. A proud native of New Jersey, Edamarie has degrees from Georgetown and Penn. Her hobbies include drawing, crafts, and collapsing on the couch at the end of a long day building gardens.

1. Tell us about your company and what you do.

JC: I own and operate JCLD ( Jennifer Connoley Landscape Design). We are a small Design/Build firm that specializes in full property landscape design on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, primarily in the Easton area. Most

Historic property, classic themed landscape, pool, and raised planters. Courtesy of Jennifer Connoley.

GROUNDWORK

13

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Women in Landscaping: Inspiring Growth

continued

HZ: My company is called The Soulful Gardener. I am a Professional Integrated Pest Management Scout & Consultant, a Certified Professional Horticulturalist, and an ISA Certified Arborist. I help growers, landscape professionals, and commercial and residential property owners protect their plants by properly identifying pests and diseases and providing environmentally conscience management solutions.

EM: Backyard Bounty is a design/build/maintain landscape company focused on building beautiful, biodynamic landscapes and maintaining them organically.

2. How did you get into the landscaping industry?

JC: I started working for a landscape company in Baltimore in 1980 at age 18. I loved the hard work and satisfaction of creating outdoor spaces. I went on to further my education at UMCP through the Institute of Applied Agriculture Landscape Management program and worked at Garden Gate Landscape upon graduation. While working there, I attended the Landscape Design program at George Washington University and have been working in the industry ever since. I have owned and operated JCLD since 2006.

Lynette Scaffidi at the New Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge project in Washington, D.C.

LS: I was always outside playing in the woods as a child, and I really think this led me to pursue an education in the environmental field. I received my B.S. in natural resource management and then my master’s degree in wildlife habitat management. Working in the world of environmental protection and restoration for the entirety of my professional career, it only seemed natural (pun intended) to establish this company with my partners. Together, we are so proud of the hard-working team we’ve built at Empire Landscape, and I look forward to seeing our company restore the environment for years to come.

HZ: I grew up on a small farm and have always been connected to plants and nature. Being outdoors is my favorite place to be, no matter the geographic location.

Nature provides peace and grounding. It is vital to our health and longevity.

EM: I started gardening seriously when we moved from California back to the East Coast in the 1990s. In California, I was inspired by Alice Waters of Chez Panisse, who spoke about choosing organic producers for her restaurant because they were the people who took care of the land. The more I gardened as a hobby, the more it inspired me until I eventually decided to resign from teaching and go back and study organic land care and design.

3. Are there any challenges to being a woman working in a male-dominated industry?

JC: On occasion, but I have always found that hard work and treating others with respect will get you through some pretty tough situations.

Using IPM control strategies encourages naturally occurring insect predators and parasitoids such as this Soldier Spine Bug which has captured a Dusky Birch Sawfly larvae. Photo by Heather Zindash.

GROUNDWORK

14

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Women in Landscaping: Inspiring Growth

continued

LS: Absolutely, but less so these days because of the number of talented, confident, and educated women that are entering our profession with strong horticultural or environmental science backgrounds. I love that it is no longer unusual to see a woman in a hard hat and hi-vis vest! It seems that women are more inclined to pursue a career in the landscape or construction industry because of the role models they are seeing in the industry, so I really love that I have the opportunity to be one of those role models for the younger generation!

can improve teamwork efficacy, increase service options, and lead to higher customer satisfaction.

However, our skills are different than working with an all-male staff. So, in order to maximize the potential of a diverse staff, one has to recognize the unique and beautiful differences within their team.

Women have the ability to think about the corporation and the customer in ways that many men do not. I encourage leaders to embrace these valuable differences and give them the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas. Your company will be better for it.

HZ: There can be challenges being a woman in a maledominated industry. Women bring a unique set of skills, passion, and talent to the landscaping industry. These particular capabilities have the potential to change the corporate culture in the best and most positive way. They

EM: I’ve been in many meetings where I’m the only woman in the room. Sometimes that means people assume I only know about flowers. I’m a pretty strong person, so I don’t worry about speaking up, but it takes more time to establish your credibility in some situations where you are the only woman or one of a few women. I could certainly tell you some stories about mansplaining from other contractors…

4. How would you describe your leadership style?

Waterfront property, farm-house-themed minimalist landscape. Courtesy of Jennifer Connoley.

Urban property, contemporary-themed landscape entertaining space. Courtesy of Jennifer Connoley.

GROUNDWORK

15

JC: I like to communicate extensively with all of the contractors on my jobs, including the laborers. I like to explain why I want to do something a certain way and listen to alternative ways of doing things. I find that engaging people in the process makes them interested in what they are doing and ultimately more productive and skilled at their work.

LS: I believe in developing leaders through example and coaching.

When thinking about leadership in the environmental restoration world, or any profession for that matter, I like to quote Abby Wambach: “Lead from where you are.” Don’t wait for permission to lead, but instead, challenge yourself by observing what needs to be done within a reasonable timeframe. For me, it’s incredibly important to focus on working

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Women in Landscaping: Inspiring Growth

continued

efficiently and effectively. Once you identify what needs to be done, you can effectively accomplish tasks to meet your short-term and long-term goals. Make it a priority to identify the good attributes within your team members and dictate responsibility based on an individual’s strengths. Share your successes collectively with the team and acknowledge when changes need to be made. From my experience, finding a good mentor for guidance nurtures individual self-confidence and a true passion for work, and helps to bring humanity into the workplace. Being a mentor who truly cares about the work we do and the people we employ has proven to instill these traits in our team, which ultimately makes Empire so successful. Lastly, and most importantly, you don’t have to wait for a job title to embody the leader within yourself. Keep learning and the rest will fall into place!

5. What is your favorite aspect of the job?

JC: By far my favorite aspect is the project management and installation of the jobs I design—working with the client and experiencing their excitement as they see their landscape and outdoor living spaces come to life!

LS: My favorite aspect of my job is by far the opportunity to work collaboratively with all the amazing people who work in the field of environmental restoration. Additionally, the biggest payoff is seeing the

HZ: I partner with many people in my role—co-workers, colleagues, customers, client team members, and co-volunteers. Leadership can take on many forms. I work hard to be patient and meet people where they are. I try my best to listen for understanding, instead of listening to respond. That can be challenging because my passion for my job can sometimes get the best of me.

I have found that if you give people the opportunity, they may have suggestions that are very valuable, and different from your own. This year, I have learned that leadership means being confident when you need to be, and humble when that is required.

Being flexible in your leadership will bring out the best in others and in yourself.

EM: I used to be a teacher, and that influences the way I manage. Great teachers often act more like coaches, giving people the tools they need to do the excellent work they are capable of. Another piece of my teacher training was “high expectation–high support.”

Ladies in the Landscape enjoying a private tour at Glenstone. L to R: Anna Calabia, Caroline Hooks, Lisa Barton, Amy Sifleet, Heather Zindash, Joanne Lutz, Missie Scanlon.

GROUNDWORK

16

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Women in Landscaping: Inspiring Growth

continued Working with my clients is so rewarding. I have a background in sales and customer service, so partnering with my clients and helping them reach their goals is so gratifying.

EM: I love when I am working on a design with a client who starts out just wanting a “pretty” landscape and who, in the course of the design process, learns that she/he can have the lovely landscape they want and also create habitat that will support birds and pollinators and keep our streams clean.

6. Do you have any projects you are particularly proud of?

During installation of the rain garden. Courtesy of Edamarie Mattei.

JC: It is hard for me to choose because each project has its own unique character, designed to enhance the natural surroundings of the Eastern Shore and the client’s vision. I have won three LCA awards since 2015 and plan on submitting two for consideration in 2022. I am truly proud of these projects and love how the clients enjoy the spaces.

Garden fully installed in year one. Courtesy of Edamarie Mattei.

incredible results from the work we get to do, and I truly love the difference we get to make on a day-to-day basis!

HZ: I love every aspect of my job. I am a solo entrepreneur; therefore, I handle all aspects of running a business. I also combine my graphic design and horticulture education and experience to create beautiful and engaging presentations that educate audiences about IPM, plants, animals, insects, and connecting to nature.

I love knowing and continuing to learn about insect and plant interactions and how to use that information to properly control plant pests. It is also quite fascinating to learn how to use biological fungicides to combat plant diseases in plant production.

GROUNDWORK

17

LS: I find it hard to pick one particular job that I am proud of because my passion for environmental mitigation leads me to be proud of every restoration project Empire Landscape completes. However, I would say that probably most important to me is our non-native invasive work and bioretention/ stormwater management services with Montgomery Parks, Montgomery County Public Schools, the City of Rockville, the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection, and other jurisdictions. If I had to choose one particular project, it would be our work with the Audubon Naturalist Society (ANS). The project involved stream and ecosystem restoration work with accessible trails. The project at ANS blends an ecological restoration landscape with important community amenities for accessibility, inclusion, aesthetics, and group learning areas. Ultimately, it offers quiet, natural places for people to relax, enjoy, and reflect. The attention to detail with this project is inspirational. A sustainable project such as that will be enjoyed for many generations, and I am proud Empire Landscape was involved with this successful restoration work!

HZ: This year I have worked with multiple customers on a specific project I call “Blooms, Bugs, and Birds.”

I combine Integrated Pest Management strategies on J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Women in Landscaping: Inspiring Growth

continued their property with the design and installation of insectary gardens that attract beneficial insects with bluebird nesting trails to create a more balanced ecosystem that encourages naturally occurring insect pest predators and parasitoids. My clients and I have both found this work to be so rewarding.

Additionally, I am very proud to have founded “Ladies in the Landscape,” a professional organization whose members are employed in the landscape and/or horticultural industries. LIL also accepts student members who are taking courses related to those industries.

Our Mission is to create a community of women working in the landscape and horticultural industries that provides support, collaboration, continuing education, mentoring, and networking to empower our members’ personal and professional lives. Join us at https://ladiesinthelandscape.com/.

Fall in the garden. Courtesy of Edamarie Mattei.

EM: We love the Lee Dennison garden we designed and installed in the town of Chevy Chase. Lee Dennison left a bequest to the town that was used to create a native plant garden in Zimmerman Park. We get calls and emails regularly from folks who have walked the garden and learned to love native plants. Especially with COVID, the garden became a place lots of families brought young children.

Winter in the garden. Courtesy of Edamarie Mattei.

Landscape

Specification cape Specification Guidelines Guidelines 6 th edition

ay at

cva.org

Kindle

mazon.com

E-Books Available on 6th edition

www.amazon.com

Part 1: Exterior Landscape Installation Part 2: Exterior Landscape Maintenance Part 3: Interior Landscape Installation and Maintenance Part 4: Irrigation Part 5: Non-Tidal Wetland Planting Part 6: Seeding and Sodding Part 7: Soils Part 8: Tree Preservation

Order THE PRINT VERSION Online Today: www.lcamddcva.org GROUNDWORK

18

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

Available Throughout February 2022

2022 | ON DEMAND Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicator Recertification Conference Registration open through February 25, 2022, at www.lcamddcvaeducation.org.

ALL SESSIONS MUST BE COMPLETED BY 11:59 pm, FEBRUARY 28, 2022, TO EARN CREDITS OFFERED. Weather, social distancing, travel time, and parking headaches no longer pose difficulties! Learn ONLINE at your home or office.

Preserve winter snow removal work opportunities and complete your recertification study at your own pace.

Confirmed Instructors • • • • • • •

Ron Alexander, R. Alexander Associates, Inc. Ray Bosmans, University of Maryland Extension Richard J. Buckley, Rutgers University Lori Chamberlin, Virginia Department of Forestry Dave Clement, University of Maryland Extension Margery Daughtry, Cornell University Stanton Gill, University of Maryland Extension

2022 Credits Credits for multiple categories from Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, Delaware, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania for pesticide and fertilizer applicators as well as for BCMAs and LIC technicians are applied for and will be posted on the LCA website when approved.

2022 Participant Fees Registration Category LCA Members Nonmembers

Through Jan. 16 to Jan. 15, 2022 Feb. 25, 2022 $ 95 $135 $145 $185

Thank You to Our Sponsors Bloom Central Turf and Irrigation Supply Landscape Supply, Inc. Manor View Farm Proven Winners ColorChoice SiteOne Landscape Supply

Sponsorship Fee: $300 LCA members/$325 nonmembers • Logo on introductory welcome slide with all sponsors.

• Three-minute pre-recorded video at beginning of sponsored segment; 30-second thank you at end of sponsored session.

• Logo hyperlinked on LCA website and name listing in promotional emails.

• Recognition in LCA Gram and Groundwork.

• Sponsor may provide a 1-minute video for LCA’s Facebook page in addition to LCA’s thank you to our sponsors recognition.

• Attendee list for post-conference follow-up (provided registrant opts-in.)

• One free ad in LCA Gram.

To reserve your sponsorship, please contact Barbara Bienkowski, bbienkowski@msp-amc.com, (240) 404-6481.

GROUNDWORK

19

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

What Is the Cause of Murky Lake Water?

By Trent Nelson, Aquatic Specialist at SOLitude Lake Management

When most people envision their dream waterbody, they picture blue, crystal-clear water that provides a beautiful backdrop for swimming, fishing, or connecting with nature. Unfortunately, visually stunning lakes and ponds aren’t always easy to achieve without consistent management. In fact, murky, turbid, or cloudy water is a common reason homeowners associations, golf courses, public parks, commercial developments, and private property owners seek professional management solutions. To address this issue, it’s important to first understand the root causes.

Murky or Cloudy Pond Water Can Lead to Big Issues

Murky or cloudy water is often a sign of suspended sediment due to erosion, pollution, and stagnation that is hospitable to nuisance mosquitoes, weeds, and “rotten egg” like odors.

These signs indicate muck buildup at the bottom of the waterbody. Bottom muck accumulates as a result of inhibited decomposition of materials like plants, algae, and other organic substances (e.g., lawn clippings and fertilizers that have washed in over time). It can also be caused by the presence of invasive species like armored catfish, which burrow into

Certain pond algae species can create the appearance of murky water, particularly when they accumulate on one side of a lake or pond.

shorelines to breed and lay eggs.

Oxygen-rich waterbodies are capable of efficiently processing this sludge, but when oxygen is deficient, muck can accumulate faster than it can be broken down.

Solutions for Increasing Dissolved Oxygen Levels There are many ways to increase dissolved oxygen levels in your lake or pond. Floating fountains circulate and aerate the water near the surface while submersed aerators integrate oxygen and movement from bottom to top. Though effective at restoring balance throughout the water column by creating conditions that

Filamentous algae are not only unsightly, but they can also cause water to become stagnant and oxygen-deprived.

GROUNDWORK

20

are less hospitable to plant and algae growth, these types of solutions are limited to targeting muck directly.

However, exciting new innovations like Oxygen Saturation Technology (OST) are capable of injecting pure oxygen directly into muck and sludge to expedite its degradation.

OST can also distribute oxygen into specific areas in the waterbody for highly targeted oxygen saturation in spaces that need it most.

Shoreline Stabilization Is Key Likewise, steps should be taken to prevent future erosion around the waterbody. Introducing native, deeprooted buffer plants can help contain the sediment and filter the polluted runoff that flows into the water during rainstorms. More significantly, weakened banks can be stabilized using modern shoreline restoration techniques. A patented knitted mesh solution called SOX Erosion Solutions completely reshapes and anchors the sediment for long-lasting durability. Once in place, the SOX can be planted with sod and beautiful beneficial plants for seamless integration into the surrounding property.

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

What Is the Cause of Murky Lake Water?

continued

Pairing Hydro-Raking With Shoreline Restoration Services: What Is Hydro-Raking?

In many cases, shoreline restoration services are paired with hydro-raking. A hydro-rake is a floating barge equipped with a backhoe that physically scoops hundreds of pounds of muck and debris from the bottom and deposits it on shore for reshaping or removal. Before hydro-raking can take place, aquatic specialists often complete bathymetric studies.

Bathymetry is the process of mapping the bottom of a lake or pond to precisely identify its unique contours and determine the areas most affected by sediment buildup.

Is Your Cloudy Water Due to Planktonic Algae?

Water murkiness is not always a result of muck or suspended sediment. Water can also appear murky due to the presence of planktonic algae, which are microscopic organisms that create visually dense blooms on the water’s surface. Planktonic algae are known to be blue, green, brown, and red in color and are most apparent around the shoreline. Similar to bottom muck, the high concentrations of these algae

Nutrient remediation products can be applied to help prevent the development of nuisance algae blooms.

Before and after: EPA-registered herbicides or algaecides may be necessary to manage poor water quality conditions.

are typically a result of poor oxygen concentrations and high levels of nutrient pollution.

Phoslock and Alum Treatments Can Balance Water Quality Aeration is helpful in preventing the accumulation of undesirable blooms, but this solution should also be supported by services like nutrient remediation. When strategically applied to a lake or pond, products like Phoslock and Alum bind to excess nutrients to prevent them from fueling the growth of nuisance algae. Because some species of planktonic algae produce dangerous toxins that are known to harm humans and kill dogs and wildlife, algaecide applications may also be used to swiftly eradicate the blooms.

Remember, Your Waterbody Is Unique It’s important to remember that every waterbody is different, and every property owner has different goals for their water resources. This means that crystal clear water is not the right outcome for everyone.

Productive fisheries, for instance, require water that is rich in nutrients to encourage the growth of impressive largemouth bass and other game fish. Stormwater management ponds can also have different priorities.

This is why it’s extremely important to discuss your dreams and expectations before implementing management practices. No matter your goal, your aquatic specialist will help you design a custom roadmap that helps you achieve it.

Floating fountains can help circulate and oxygenate the water to help prevent murkiness and bad odors.

GROUNDWORK

21

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Advertisers Index Babikow Greenhouses...................................................................... 24 Chief Mountain Farms, LLC............................................................. 23 Manor View Farm.............................................................................. 22 McCartin............................................................................................... 4 The Perennial Farm............................................................................ 9 Spring Meadow/Proven Winners................................................... 7 Walnut Springs Nursery, Inc............................................................ 2

Delivering the Confidence You Desire and the Value You Deserve for over 40 years

General Information Classified • Scan the QR-code below or go to Advertising www.lcamddcva.org/page/Adv_Exhib_Spons for current Media Kit. • Signed contract must accompany ad copy.

Artwork can be changed monthly, provided contract is paid in full.

• When change of artwork is not received by artwork closing date, publisher reserves right to print ad from previous issue.

• There are no refunds of advertising payments.

• Payment is due with signed contract and artwork by final closing date for each issue.

Publisher Indemnities: Publisher reserves the right to mark “advertisement” on copy that readers might confuse with editorial content and to refuse copy that offends good taste or takes unfair competitive advantage. No rebates made for errors in key numbers or for omissions or errors in Advertisers Index.

* Our Landscape Distribution Center has an Extensive Selection of Quality Plant Material Available for Pickup or Delivery * Field Grown Material Available for Personal Selection * Potted Liners

Classified ads are a great way to find new employees, announce business opportunities, or buy and sell equipment. Payment must accompany copy.

Number of Words

LCA NonMembers Members

Up to 200 words

$50

$125

Each additional 100 words thereafter

$25

$40

Advertising on the Web Banner advertising is available to members only on the website.

Display Advertising Deadline Mar/Apr 2022 Issue: Friday, February 18, 2022 Contact BBienkowski@msp-amc.com for information.

15601 Manor Rd, Monkton, MD 21111 410-771-4700 fax 410-771-8246 sales@manorview.com

www.manorview.com GROUNDWORK

22

J A N UA RY/FEBRUA RY 2022

CHIEF MOUNTAIN FARMS, LLC

Providing Native & Wetland Plants to the Industry From Plugs to Containers We Grow It All Grasses · Sedges & Rushes · Perennials · Ground Covers · Shrubs · Trees · Vines

116 Chiefs Mountain Lane Port Deposit, MD 21904 Tel: 410-658-7331 * Toll-Free: 866-530-8902 Fax: 410-658-7333 info@chiefmountainfarms.com www.chiefmountainfarms.com