The Scoop Online – March 2012

page 12-14 and 42-47

THe

Green for Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 From the President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Landscape Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Expo New Plant Forum . . . . 12-14, 42-47 research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-18 Business Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21, 48 Garden center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Government affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26, 28-30, 32-35 recycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Sustainable Environment. . . . . . . . . . . . 32 MDa Update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37 certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38-41 MNLa Foundation Scholarships . . 49-54 Plant of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

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www.MNLA.biz | March 2012

ADVERTISER INDEX A Top Notch Equipment..............................4 Anchor Block Company.............................21 Baker Lake Nursery..................................20 Belgard Hardscapes - Northfield...............33 Bridgewater Tree Farms...........................35 Bullis Insurance Agency ...........................54 Carlin Horticultural Supplies/ ProGreen Plus ......................................8 Casualty Assurance ..................................17 Central Landscape Supply ........................22 Ceres Environmental .................................9 Crysteel Truck Equipment.........................46 Cushman Motor Co. Inc.............................32 Fahey Sales Agency, Inc. ..........................36 Fury Motors.............................................12 Gardenworld Inc......................................36 Great Northern Equipment Distributing, Inc. ................................25 Hal Tiffany Agency...................................20 Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies ...41 Jeff Belzer Chevrolet .................................5 Johnson's Nursery, Inc..............................38 Kage Innovation......................................45

Klaus Nurseries .......................................22 Kubota Dealers........................................19 Lano Equipment, Inc................................38 Maguire Agency ......................................46 Miller Auto Plaza .....................................10 MN Equipment Solutions, Inc. ..................36 Natural Industries ...................................14 Nuss Truck & Equipment...........................15 Out Back Nursery.....................................24 Pine Products Inc.....................................43 Plaisted Companies .................................13 Prairie Restorations, Inc...........................37 Quality Insurance Service.........................34 RDO Equipment Co...................................17 RDO Integrated Controls ..........................49 Rock Hard Landscape Supply division of Brian's Lawn & Landscaping, Inc............7 The Builders Group ..................................23 Titan Machinery ................................27, 56 Tri-State Bobcat, Inc. ...............................11 Vermeer Sales & Service...........................37 Ziegler Cat ................................................3

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Upcoming Events March 7-

MNLA Day on the Hill. Kelly Inn and State Capitol, St. Paul. For more information visit www.MNLA.biz.

8-9 - MECA Annual Erosion Control and Stormwater Management Conference & Trade Show. Grand View Lodge, Nisswa. More information available at www.mnerosion.org.

9 - MNLA Certification Exam. Dakota County Technical College, Rosemount. For more information, see page 28 or visit www.mnla.biz.

10 - MNLA Landscape Gala 2012. Woman’s Club of Minneapolis. For more information, see page 48 or visit www.MNLA.biz.

13-14 or 21-22 - Pesticide Certification: Workshop & Exam. MN Dept. of Agriculture, St. Paul. For more information, see page 28 or visit www.mnla.biz.

15-22 - Annual Hedberg Contractor Education Day. Earle Brown Heritage Center, Brooklyn Center. For more information, see www.hedbergrocks.com/contractor.

20-21 - 50th Annual Minnesota Shade Tree Short Course. Bethel University, Arden Hills. For more information, visit www.cce.umn.edu/shadetree.

21 - Spring Greenhouse Tour. Northern Metro. For more information, see page 28 or visit www.mnla.biz.

21 - Gertens 2012 Education & Spring Buying Fair. Inver Grove Heights. For more information, see www.gertenswholesale.com.

27 - Pruning Seminar. TIES Conference Center, St. Paul. For more information, see page 29 or visit www.mnla.biz.

28 - Irrigation: Grounding & Surge Protection (PLT Relicensure). Roseville Skating Center/Oval, Roseville. For more information, see page 29 or visit www.mnla.biz. Sponsored by John Deere Landscapes and MTI Distributing.

28 - Bachman’s Wholesale Nursery & Hardscapes Spring Open House. Bachman’s Cedar Acres Hardscape Center, Farmington. For more information, see www.bachmanswholesale.com or call 651-463-3288.

April 3-

Permeable Paver Certificate Class. TIES Conference Center, St. Paul. For more information, see page 29 or visit www.mnla.biz. Sponsored by County Materials Corporation.

10 - Hands-on Permeable Paver Installation. MNLA Garden at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. For more information, see page 30 or visit www.mnla.biz.

May 8-10 - Minnesota Health and Safety Conference. Minneapolis Convention Center.

More information available online at www.minnesotasafetycouncil.org.

June 20 - MNLA Foundation Garden Party. Gordie Bailey's home. More information available online at www.MNLA.biz.

August 9-

2012 Wisconsin Nursery Field Day. Wayside Nurseries, Mequon, Wisc. More information available online at www.wgif.net.

If interested in sponsoring, please call Betsy Pierre, 763-295-5420 / betsy@pierreproductions.com MNLA Events - Visit www.MNLA.biz for registration and details for these and other programs!

Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association 1813 Lexington Ave. N. Roseville, MN 55113 651-633-4987, fax 651-633-4986 Outside the metro area, toll free: 888-886-MNLA, fax 888-266-4986 www.MNLA.biz

MNLA Mission The mission of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association is to help nursery and landscape related companies in Minnesota and the surrounding region operate their businesses more successfully.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Debbie Lonnee, MNLA-CP, President Bailey Nurseries, Inc. 651-768-3375 debbie.lonnee@baileynursery.com Heidi Heiland, MNLA-CP, Vice-President heidi's Lifestyle Gardens 612-366-7766 • heidi@BloomOnMN.com Herman Roerick, Secretary-Treasurer central Landscape Supply 320-252-1601 hermanr@centrallandscape.com Bert Swanson, MNLA-CP, Past President Swanson’s Nursery consulting, Inc. 218-732-3579 • btswanson2@gmail.com Randy Berg, MNLA-CP Berg’s Nursery, Landscape/Garden center 507-433-2823 rberg@smig.net Scott Frampton Landscape renovations 651-769-0010 sframpton@landscaperenovations.com Tim Malooly, CID, CLIA, CIC Irrigation By Design Inc. 763-559-7771 • timm@ibdmn.com Mike McNamara hoffman & McNamara Nursery & Landscaping (651) 437-9463 mike.mcnamara@ hoffmanandmcnamara.com Bill Mielke Waconia Tree Farms LLc 952-442-2616 billmielke@waconiatreefarms.com Bob Fitch MNLa Executive Director 651-633-4987 • bob@mnla.biz The Scoop is published 12 times per year by the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape association, 1813 Lexington ave. N., roseville, MN 55113. address corrections should be sent to the above address. News and advertising deadlines are the 5th of the month preceding publication.

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www.MNLA.biz | March 2012

The Scoop | FROM THE PRESIDENT

Glad to Talk About MNLA - or Plants!

By Debbie Lonnee, Bailey Nurseries, Inc. want to thank all of the members of the MNLA for having enough faith in me to recently elect me as president of this great organization. It is an honor and privilege to Debbie Lonnee serve on the board of directors, and, although I work for one of the largest nurseries in the country, when I am at board meetings, I am representing all of our member companies, including so many of you small business owners.

I

I’ve had the pleasure of working in the nursery industry since 1980, when I graduated with a B.S. in horticulture from the University of Minnesota (and Dr. Bert Swanson, our MNLA past president, was my advisor!). I started working at The Park Nursery in Stillwater, eventually becoming the store

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manager and worked there for 13 years.

In 1993, I moved to Bailey Nurseries, and have worked in the Planning & Administration department, becoming the department manager in 2007.

At heart, I am a plant geek. I love working in horticulture, and am content in my off hours to work in my own gardens, which do not discriminate against any plant group – I love trees, shrubs, vines, roses, perennials and annuals and mix them together lovingly in my own gardens. I do some speaking to garden clubs and master gardener groups on the side, and also do some garden writing – I am currently the horticultural editor of Northern Gardener magazine - the magazine of the Minnesota State Horticulture Society.

I love to tour gardens and take photographs, and Jon Horsman, our MNLA Communications Director, loves to use them in MNLA publications. It is

a real thrill to see your work published and used to hopefully promote and enhance our industry.

Having been in this industry a long time, I know a lot of our MNLA members, but not all of you, especially the landscape contractors and designers.

My hope is that if you have a chance to see me at an MNLA event, you’ll introduce yourself and tell me your concerns, problems, ideas and hopes for the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association – I am here to listen to your needs and we want you to find value in your membership. Don’t hesitate to give me a call at 651-768-3375 or shoot me an email at Debbie.lonnee@baileynursery.com.

And of course, if you want to talk about a favorite shrub or tree, or hosta, or even a bedding plant, I’m here for you! _______________________________ Debbie Lonnee is the president of the MNLA and can be reached at Debbie.lonnee@baileynursery.com.

MULCH

Landscape Supplies & Wood Waste Management

Ceres Environmental Services, Inc. wood waste recycling facility takes in wood waste from tree services, land clearing companies, and local citizens. Through a mechanized reduction process, some of the wood waste is manufactured into organic mulches, and some is composted and aged over time into flowerbed mixes and soil amendments.

We offer a variety of mulches including: Natural Premium Shredded Mulch Honey Gold Premium Shredded Mulch Royal Gold Premium Shredded Mulch Milk Chocolate Premium Shredded Mulch Dark Chocolate Premium Shredded Mulch Ruby Red Premium Shredded Mulch Playground Wood Chips

Contact us at: Ceres Environmental Services, Inc. 3825 85th Avenue North Brooklyn Park, MN 55443 Phone: (763) 425-8822 Fax: (763) 425-5636 Email: ken.williams@ceresenvironmental.com

www.ceresenvironmental.com Store Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Open Saturday during the months of May and June from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm.

The Scoop | LANDSCAPE DESIGN

A Few Good Environmental Tips

By Eric Baldus, TerraVista Landscape and Design LLC

industry.”

was working outside in a t-shirt this morning - it’s hard to believe that it is January 31. You’re reading this in March and hopefully we have had some snow for the traditional snow-loving Minnesotans out there. This year felt a little more like Missouri than Minnesota.

I could write a book about all of the techniques that could be used to help improve our local environments but will run through just a few. While many of these systems cost more to implement, there are good reasons to utilize them and some will pay for themselves in the long run.

I

Eric Baldus

For anyone who was on the fence about climate change, this year should have helped change your mind. The facts are out there and there should be little doubt that our climate is changing. I often joke with my clients that it isn’t all bad for me as a designer, in 20 years I’ll be able to plant palm trees. This is a bit of a reach, but many designers know this to be true. I have been planting more Japanese maples and have been feeling much more comfortable about using marginal (zone 5 plants) material.

While more interesting, it also causes me to pause and wonder if I am doing what I can in my professional career to help improve our environment, after all we are in the “green

Irrigation: Drip irrigation tubing runs under the mulch and waters plants in an optimum way while lowering water usage. Less water is lost by evaporating into the atmosphere. It also does not wet the surface of the mulch around the plants thereby lowering the germination rate of weed seeds that blow in. The other benefit is that it does not wet the foliage of the plants which minimizes fungal and bacterial pathogens. Again, it costs a bit more, but over the life of the product can potentially pay for itself.

Lighting: LED low voltage lighting fixtures, while initially costing more, will pay for themselves over the life of the installation.

They do this by having bulbs with extremely long life spans and very low power consumption. The power draw is also so low you can often downsize the transformer and the gauge of the wire being used.

Stormwater Management: Utilizing rain gardens and permeable pavements not only reduce runoff, but also can be eligible for a stormwater credit (in the city of Minneapolis). Even installing larger planting beds helps absorb more water than turf. Reducing turf reduces maintenance (turf is easily the most maintenance intensive planting). Many potential clients that I have met with have said, “I want easy maintenance, I just want all grass.” I use the analogy of a Starfruit in the grocery store. No one knows what to do with it so they don’t buy it. Many people don’t know how to maintain plants but they know how to mow turf. Perennials, shrubs, and trees offer more environmental benefit than turf by consuming more carbon and giving off more oxygen.

Sometimes I have felt like all of the infrastructure that we need to have an installation company, all of the fuel that we use and all of the waste that we generate, I am doing more harm to the environment than good; but then I think about all of the improvements that we make for the earth including water management and the benefit of all of the trees that we plant.

The biggest thing is that we are helping our clients enjoy the outdoors more and hopefully helping them think a bit more about the environment themselves. _______________________________ Eric Baldus is a member of the MNLA Landscape Design Committee and can be reached at terravista@mac.com.

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www.MNLA.biz | March 2012

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The Scoop | EXPO

series

Expo New Plant Forum Editor’s Note: During the course of this year, e Scoop will feature information and photos from the New Plant Forum held at the 2012 Northern Green Expo. anks to MNLA President Debbie Lonnee, Bailey Nurseries, for organizing this session with presenters from around the world. e New Plant Forum is an educational session that was developed for the Northern Green Expo to highlight and bring to attention new plant cultivars for landscapes and gardens in the Upper Midwest. e person who presented the plant is listed just prior to the plant name.

Dr. David Zlesak, University of Wisconsin-River Falls

Rosa ‘ZLeMarianneYoshida’ pp22,205 Oso Happy™ petit pink rose Origin: bred by Dr David Zlesak in St. Paul, MN USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 4-9 Height and Spread: 24” x 30” Availability: liners available at Spring Meadow Nursery, finished plants from growers such as Bachmans Wholesale Propagation method: cuttings, grafting or tissue culture l t open p tto p petalt l Oso Happy™ Petit Pink is a miniature rose with flower power for the landscape! Attractive buds bborn iin clusters packed pink blooms glowing with warm undertones. Bred from miniatures and hardy landscape roses, it combines very high black spot tolerance, winter hardiness, and compact size. It earned a 2012 Award of Excellence after proving itself in the two year national AOE trials sponsored by the American Rose Society. Part of the Proven Winners® Color Choice shrub program.

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Alec Charais, Bailey Nurseries, Inc.

Russell Emerson, Ball Horticultural Co.

Picea pungens ‘glauca Slenderina pendula’ Slenderina weeping blue spruce

Angelonia angustifolia archangel™ series archangel™ ‘pink’ archangel™ ‘purple’ archangel™ ‘Raspberry’ archangel™ ‘White’

Origin: discovered at Eshraghi Nursery, Oregon USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 3-6 Height and Spread: 15-18” x 10-15’ Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc, Eshraghi Nursery, Oregon p g Propagation method: ggraft M More upright than p prostrate, this blue sspruce has a ggraceful upward, yyet weeping habit aand a strong eelectric blue color, eeven on the needles ‘u ‘underneath’ the n new growth.

C Creates a sspectacular sspecimen in the llandscape.

Origin: introduced by Ball Horticultural Co as part of the Simply Beautiful® program USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: annual in the Midwest Height and Spread: 12-14” X 10-12” Availability: liners from Ball Propagation method: vegetative cuttings is first tetraploid Angelonia has a more robust habit with flowers up to three times larger than other varieties. Earlier and better flowering at retail.

March 2012 | www.MNLA.biz

13

Russell Emerson, Ball Horticultural Co.

Brent Gustafson, Midwest Groundcovers

Viola x wittrockiana Cool Wave™ series Cool Wave™ ‘Violet Wing’ Cool Wave™ ‘Frost’ Cool Wave™ ‘Yellow’ Cool Wave™ ‘White’

Syringa x ‘penda’ pp20575 Bloomerang® lilac

O Origin: introduced bby PanAmerican Seed C Co. U USDA Cold H Hardiness Zones: a annual in the M Midwest, comes t through winter in z zone 5 H Height and Spread: 66-8” X 24-30” A Availability: PanA n merican Seed Co, plug producers nA PanAmerican Propagation method: seed e vigorous spreading habit looks to reinvent pansies much in the way Wave petunias did the petunia market. A 24-30” spread makes these great for baskets and in ground planting.

Loads of blooms in four colors.

?

E S A E S I ROOT D iron chlor

osis?

Origin: developed by Tim Wood at Spring Meadow Nursery, Inc. USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 4-7 Height and Spread: 4-5’ X 4-5’ Availability: most PWCC shrub growers Propagation method: softwood cuttings is is a new dwarf lilac that will have fragrant purple/pink flowers for months instead of weeks.

Will bloom in the spring, and then again throughout the summer into fall. Compact, d mildew ld resistant. rounded habit, deer resistant, powdery New Plant Forum continued on page 42

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The Scoop | RESEARCH

USDA Releases New Hardiness Zone Map

By Dr. James Calkins, Research Information Director MNLA Foundation s some of you may already be aware, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released a new, updated version of the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. The new map was officially released on January 25, 2012, and is much improved over the last update released in 1990. This is the third revision of the map since the original map was created in 1960; the first revision was released in 1965.

A

Jim Calkins

The new map includes 13 zones; two more than the old map with the addition of Zone 12 (50-60 degrees F) and Zone 13 (60-70 degrees F). As before, the zones are based on average minimum winter temperatures, not the coldest it has ever been or will be in a particular area, and each zone reflects a 10-degree F temperature range subdivided into A and B, 5-degree subzones.

The new map is based on 30 years of temperature data collected from 1975 through 2005 which is different from the 1990 version which was only based on 13 years of data (19741986). The new map is also based on temperature data from many more weather stations than the old map, pays more attention to elevation, nearness to waterbodies, and local terrain, and takes into account input specifically sought from horticultural and climate experts resulting in greater accuracy and detail.

Interestingly, the new zones are generally about a half-zone warmer than on the 1990 map.

This is mostly a result of using temperature data from a longer and more recent time period and the more sophisticated methods used to create the new map.

Although warmer zones have shifted north across much of the country on the new map and some have suggested connection between the new map and climate change (New Map for What to Plant Reflects Global Warming;

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http://minnesota.publicradio.org/disp lay/web/2012/01/25/planting-zoneschanging/), the USDA has indicated the map isn’t a good measure of climate change because it is based on just the coldest days of the year. The map also shows that some areas have moved from warmer to cooler zones. From a horticultural perspective, given the climactic complexities involved and the specifics of the data and methods used to create the current and past hardiness zone maps, caution is probably advised.

Specific to Minnesota, three primary zones (Zones 3, 4, & 5) and five zone subdivisions (Zones 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, & 5a) are now found in the state. Based on the old, 1990 map, Zones 2 (2b), 3 (3a & 3b, and 4 (4a & 4b) were found in Minnesota. More specifically, the small pockets of Zone 2b in the northern part of the state on the old map are gone, a small portion of Zone 5a now reaches into Minnesota from the south, and Minneapolis and St. Paul are now included in Zone 4b instead of 4a.

For the first time, the map is available in an interactive GIS-based, Internetfriendly format that works best with a broadband Internet connection. Static images are available for those with slower Internet access. Users may also type in a zip code or zoom in on the map to find hardiness zones for more specific locations down to the level of primary intersections and neighborhoods. Noninteractive maps are also available for each of the 50 states. Although posters of the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map will not be printed as they have been in the past, state, regional, and national images of the map can be downloaded and printed for free in a variety of sizes and resolutions from the USDA website.

The new maps are available online at http://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/PHZ MWeb/. The news release, which includes information on how the map was developed, is also available online at http://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/ gd/USDAOC-27e7f9.

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The Scoop | RESEARCH

Daylily Leafminer Identified in North America

By Dr. James Calkins, Research Information Director MNLA Foundation his month I have also chosen to highlight reports of a potential new daylily pest identified late last year (2011)

by Gaye L. Williams (Maryland Department of Agriculture, Plant Protection & Weed Management) – the daylily leafminer (Ophiomyia kwansoniss Sasakawa). If it reaches and is capable of surviving in Minnesota, it would have serious consequences for this important, and otherwise relatively problem-free, landscape plant.

Significant points/findings:

T

• Originally only known in Japan and Taiwan; leafmining damage was likely first reported in the U.S. in 2008 and perhaps as early as 2006, but the pest wasn’t officially identified until fall 2011; to date, reported in 15 states including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Texas.

• No reports or documented observations in Minnesota (Steven Shimek, MN Department of Agriculture; personal communication).

• Only known to feed on the leaves of daylily (Hemerocallis spp.).

• Easily detected and tentatively identified by long, silver, serpentine mines produced by larval feeding on primarily the upper leaf surface, but sometimes on both leaf surfaces.

• Feeding hasn’t been documented to kill plants, but damage is cumulative and plants are disfigured for the remainder of the season.

• Adult a small (3-4 mm), shiny, stocky, black fly with broad, triangular wings and often seen on foliage and blooms; larvae small (up to 5 mm long), pale yellow with black mouthparts; pupae tan within the larval mines usually in the lower half of the leaves.

• Removing and destroying infested foliage may help reduce numbers; naturalized populations of Hemerocallis fulva (common daylily) can serve as reservoirs for reinfestation.

Although no formal controls have been tested, general recommendations for the control of leafminers can be found (Sadof, C.S. 2010. Home Landscape & Nursery Insecticides.

Purdue Extension Publication E-221-W; http://extension.entm.purdue.edu/eseries3/view.php?article=art icles/home_landscape_and_nursery_insecticides.txt&id=&secti on=Turfgrass); always be sure to check and follow the label.

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Primary take-home message – Be on the lookout for this potential new threat and take care when sourcing daylilies from out-of-state suppliers especially from infested areas.

Citations: Williams, G.L. and G.J. Steck. 2011. New Invasive Daylily Leafminer, Ophiomyia kwansonis Sasakawa, Identified in North America. National Plant Diagnostic Network Newsletter 6(9):7-8. Available at http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/hodges/september_2011.pdf.

Additional sources of information including life-stage photos and pictures of damage: Williams, G.L. 2012. Daylily Leafminer Recently Detected in U.S. American Nurseryman 212(1):20. http://www.amerinurserydigital.com/Jan2012/Jan2012/0/0#&pageSet=11 Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry. October 2011.

Daylily Leafminer Profile. http://www.ldaf.state.la.us/portal/Portals/0/AES/Horticulture/Quar antine_programs/Daylily%20Leafminer%20Profile.pdf American Hemerocallis Society. 2011. Daylily Dictionary: Leafminer. http://daylilies.org/ahs_dictionary/leafminer.html Williams, G. 2011. A Newly Identified Daylily Pest in Maryland. TPM/IPM Weekly Report (University of Maryland Extension; September 30, 2011). http://ipmnet.umd.edu/landscape/lndscpalerts/2011/11Sep30L.pdf Remember, the MNLA Foundation’s new research focus and these research updates are intended to serve you and we want your input.

To comment on this month’s update, suggest research topics of interest, or pass along a piece of research-based information that might be of interest to your industry colleagues, please email me at GreenIndustryScience.MNLA@gmail.com.

The Scoop | BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Cell Phone Ban for Commercial Truck Drivers

By Patrick McGuiness, Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC ast month I wrote about the posters which employers are required to post at their place of business to inform employees of their rights. The focus was on the posters required by the State of Minnesota. I said that I would cover the federally required posters this month, but Patrick McGuiness due to an extremely important law change I am postponing that article, but promise to cover it next month.

L

What is so important that I would put off a promised column? Major changes to the law which effect cell phone use, that is what! As of January 1st, 2012, commercial truck drivers (and bus drivers) are prohibited from using hand held mobile telephones. Here is a summary of the rule from the US DOT Motor Carrier Safety Administration: “The final rule prohibits commercial drivers from using a hand-held mobile telephone while operating a commercial truck or bus. Drivers who violate the restriction will face federal civil penalties of up to $2,750 for each offense and

disqualification from operating a commercial motor vehicle for multiple offenses. Additionally, states will suspend a driver’s commercial driver’s license (CDL) after two or more serious traffic violations. Commercial truck and bus companies that allow their drivers to use hand-held cell phones while driving will face a maximum penalty of $11,000.”

This general description of the new rule, of course, brings up many great questions.

Question: What size trucks are covered by the rule?

Answer: e driver of any commercial truck over 10,001 GVW is required to comply with the new rule.

Question: What if I use a ‘blue tooth’ or have the phone on speaker-phone, then can I use the phone?

Answer: Maybe. Drivers are allowed to use hands-free devices only if they are allowed to complete the use of the phone with the push of one button. is means that dialing a complete number is not allowed, nor is looking through a contact list before dialing. Essentially, all that is allowed is to use voice command dialing.

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Question: What about Nextel and other “walkie-talkie” phones, are they exempt from the rule or if not, do they qualify under the “one button” rule?

Answer: Nextel and other similar phones are not exempt and cannot be used by drivers. e reasoning for this is that this type of communication requires the phone to be hand–held and not handsfree like the rule requires.

Question: Nextel and similar phones are just like CB radios, so is CB radio and walkie-talkie use prohibited by this rule?

Answer: No, because CB radios and walkie-talkies are radio devices and not mobile phones, the rule does not apply to them and their use is still allowed.

Hopefully, this answers many of your questions about this new rule which will undoubtedly affect thousands of people

in our industry. I can almost hear the feedback beginning to come in. So often I hear that laws and rules don’t make any sense or aren’t fair. If you have been reading my column for a while now, you already know this; if you are a new reader, I will repeat it again for you. It is the government. No one says that laws and rules created by them have to make any sense. _______________________________ This article provides general information on legal matters and should not be relied upon as legal advice. A qualified attorney must analyze all relevant facts and apply the applicable law to any matter before legal advice can be given. If you would like more information regarding transportation law or other legal matters, please contact Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC at 651-2063203 or pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com Patrick McGuiness is one of the founding partners of Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC. His law practice focuses on assisting contractors & other small business owners.

He is also part owner of One Call Landscaping a Minneapolis landscaping company.

March 2012 | www.MNLA.biz

21

The Scoop | GARDEN CENTER

Help Out The IGCs

By Randy Berg, Berg's Nursery & Landscapes LLC NOTE TO SUPPLIERS: As a 30-plus year buyer for a small to mid-sized garden center, I’ve seen and heard a lot. Suppliers often say comments Randy Berg like “Our service is unmatched;” “We always try to be fair;” “ese prices are very competitive.” If I may address all suppliers of plants, hard goods, gifts and other products, I would like to say first of all, this article is not

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intended to diminish the effort you already put forth to assist garden centers with merchandising, but…WE NEED HELP!!! What I’ve been seeing lately is very disturbing.

Independent Garden Centers (IGCs) have long been the "Guinea Pigs,’‘ "Trial Grounds," or a "launching Pad" to make or break new plants and products. Our highly trained staff have acted like product representatives vouching for new items, getting these items into the public’s hands or gardens for trial. We were the first to jump on new items and support unknown products. IGCs launched countless potentilla, spirea, and

shrub rose varieties. We sold Wave Petunias before every gas station and drug store knew what they were. We stocked Topsy Turvey Tomato planters, Round-up, Trimec and countless other hard good items before every hardware store offered them at half our retail price.

Now the game has changed. I’m told by knowledgeable sales reps that IGC ‘numbers’ are going down and they must search out new outlets to sell a gluttony of product on the market. This product is showing up in many of the big box discounters. Shockingly, several of the new plant varieties like ‘Cool Slash’ Diervilla, Endless Summer Hydrangea,

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and even the just released ‘Little Devil’ Ninebark have been seen in impressive mass displays retailing for just a ‘whisker’ under wholesale prices. These plants are showing up in very distinct containers previously seen only in IGCs. Proven Winners are everywhere. New, unique and unusual perennial varieties are common at Home Depot, Lowes and many others. Is this wrong? No, not necessarily. I’m not here to tell anyone how to or whom to sell their product.

Searching for new outlets for your product is not wrong, but be careful.

These plants and products are our livelihood. The value of these items in the consumer’s mind can be easily diminished. We all have seen the ‘Big Box’ effect on the value of Easter lilies and now poinsettias. Last season, a Home Depot near us sold 6” foiled poinsettias for $2.99, and the quality wasn’t bad. The consumer will soon believe poinsettias are worthless. The products we sell, shrubs and trees in particular, are purchased only a few times during the average customer’s lifetime.

Let’s not reduce the value of this inventory.

Remember our history. IGCs have long been great “launching pads” for these new products. Please be patient with us, IGCs tend to be a little cautious when introducing new items. After all, it’s our reputations on the line. We have been ‘stung’ a few times. My suggestion to our suppliers - give IGCs two seasons to launch these new products. Help us with P.O.P. & display ideas. P.O.P. makes a huge difference in making a display effective in telling the story required to increase sales. Very few IGCs have merchandisers or trained visual display marketing staff. The chain stores do. Help us sell more of your product with display ideas and affordable P.O.P. materials. Combine plant varieties into “packages” creating multi-plant sales.

Very little has been done to educate the IGC staff on impulse and problem solving plantings. Help us show our customers how to solve their problem areas with plants. Let’s shield our view of

the messy neighbor, hide the utility meter, create a backyard paradise, and attract song birds, to name a few.

Multiple unit sales could be very profitable for both of us. We want to sell more. We can do this with some well crafted P.O.P., well thought out plant combinations, and plan-o-grams showing us exactly how to display these plants. I know that we can have custom printed P.O.P. materials made, but without a merchandiser on staff, many efforts simply fall short. There is an opportunity to increase sales if we, as IGCs and suppliers, work together. If we are smart about this, there is room for all of us in this great industry. _______________________________ Randy Berg is a member of the MNLA Garden Center Committee and can be reached at randy@bergsnursery.com.

March 2012 | www.MNLA.biz

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The Scoop | GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Minnesota Invasive Species Advisory Council (MISAC) and MNLA

By Tim Power, MNLA Government Affairs Consultant NLA is represented on many boards and committees throughout the state, both private and governmental. One of the groups I serve on for MNLA is The Minnesota Invasive Tim Power Species Advisory Council (MISAC), described on their webpage (http://www.mda.state.mn.us/en/plants/pestmanagement/misa c.aspx ) as follows:

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The Minnesota Invasive Species Advisory Council, a diverse group with a common interest in battling nonnative invasive species in Minnesota, was initiated in May 2001. An Interagency Exotic Species Task Force, initially formed in 1990, preceded the current state invasive species council. The council is co-chaired by Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and

A Deeper Shade of Green Local Genetic Origins

now has 40 members and representatives of organizations involved in various aspects of invasive species research, prevention, and management.

The Departments of Agriculture and Natural Resources are responsible for coordinating the management of invasive species in the state. Department of Agriculture staff conduct surveys for invasive pests such as gypsy moth, emerald ash borer, Grecian foxglove, bark beetles, soybean rust, sudden oak death and chrysanthemum white rust disease and also oversee the state noxious weed and seed laws. The DNR is responsible for aquatic invasive species and vertebrate terrestrial invasive species such as zebra mussel, Eurasian water milfoil, flowering rush, curly-leaf pondweed, mute swans, invasive fish and purple loosestrife.

Among the non-governmental organizations holding official seats on MISAC are MNLA, Bailey Nurseries, and the Minnesota Shade Tree Advisory Committee (MnSTAC), so the Green Industry is well represented. Notable items from the most recent meeting include:

TM

Native Minnesota Woody & Herbaceous (651) 438-2771 • Fax (651) 438-3816

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Call us first for all your native planting needs 24

www.MNLA.biz | March 2012

Each poster includes many beautiful color photos of plant species found in the northern landscape.

Thirteen titles of woody & herbaceous plants.

Visit the MNLA.biz Store or call Sue at 651-633-4987.

Presentation by MDA’s Kathy Kromroy to MISAC on boxwood blight, a new US pest.

The Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference (UMISC) is scheduled for October 29-31, 2012, in La Crosse, WI. This conference follows similar events in Duluth in 2008 and St. Paul in 2010. Monday afternoon field trips in the LaCrosse area may include visits to Japanese barberry infestation sites.

The 2013 Invasive Species calendar will include no horticulturally-significant plant species.

I reported on our plans to include a Northern Green Expo session in 2013 on Japanese barberry and our discussion of possibly making barberry, in particular, or invasive plants, in general, a topic for our Expo Public Policy Forum.

The DNR terrestrial invasives branding campaign has settled on the theme: PLAY, CLEAN, GO, using tag lines like “Prevent The Spread Of Invasive Plants and Animals.”

We spent a fair amount of time discussing MISAC’s longterm and short-term goals. Top priorities for 2012 include: • • • •

Produce 2013 Invasive Species calendar Co-host UMISC Field trainings/site visits in conjunction with UMISC Continued open communication about invasive species issues and actions facing member organizations • Discussion of MISAC Ranking Lists and Hot Lists

The Department of Agriculture is responsible for regulating terrestrial plants in the state. This function is managed by the Noxious Weed Advisory Committee (NWAC), another group that includes MNLA representation. NWAC is an advisory group to the Commissioner of Agriculture that recommends plants to be included in or dropped from the state’s noxious weed lists. In 2011, NWAC reviewed 13 plant species and made several recommendations for listing to the Commissioner, who signed off on those recommendations.

Japanese barberry remains under NWAC discussion for at least another year, since it shows up on many invasive species lists nationwide and has numerous documented Minnesota infestations, yet is an important and popular Green Industry plant.

There is an important distinction between invasive plants in general and noxious weeds in particular. Any group or agency can publish its own invasive plants list, describing what plants it considers invasive and why. Only those plants that are reviewed and recommended by NWAC will be listed as state noxious weeds. Both MDA and the Minnesota DNR have published invasive plants lists. MDA’s list (http://www.mda.state.mn.us/plants/pestmanagement/weedcon trol/terrestrial.aspx ) focuses on Early Detection target species and includes several species newly named to the noxious weed lists. DNR’s list (http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/index.ht m ) includes a number of horticulturally-significant plants, some of which are still sold in the industry.

March 2012 | www.MNLA.biz

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MNLA Learning On Demand: Live and Recorded Webinars can’t get away from the office for training? MNLa is making it easy for you to train right from your desk or conference room!

This spring we’ve featured several webinars including topics like collections and hiring practices. The following two webinars are still on tap for this spring: •

restoring hardscapes (March 29)

•

raingardens (april 26)

The cost for MNLa members is only $39 per webinar connection.

Why not put a computer in your conference room and have your employees gather and participate in the webinar together? Not only are you reducing time away from the office, but you’re also saving money and boosting productivity.

Plus, check out our NEW webinar archives online. Purchase a recorded version of a webinar to view at your convenience. Use it for education of crews on a rain-day or to get a new hire up to speed quickly. recorded versions are available online for $39.60 and are available for 30 days from the date of purchase. all you need is an internet connection! check back often, as new topics will be added as they become available.

Increase your plant and hardscape sales with MNLA’s Outdoor Living Catalogs. Titles include Trees & Shrubs, Perennials, and Ideas for Outdoor Living.

Visit MNLA.biz or call Sue at 651-633-4987.

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www.MNLA.biz | March 2012

Volume Discounts on Garden Center Trays Visit MNLA.biz or contact Mary at 651-633-4987.

March 9, 2012 | 8:30am—12:30pm | Dakota County Technical College, Rosemount

Interested in sitting for the MNLA Certification Exam? You will have one more opportunity this winter—in March. Go online to www.mnla.biz to purchase your Certification Manual today and start studying to earn your MNLA Certification.

CERTIFIED Professional

March 13-14, 2012 | Day One: 7:15am—4:00pm; Day Two: 8am—3:00pm | Location: MN Dept. of Agriculture, St. Paul - or March 21-22, 2011 | Day One: 7:15am—4:00pm; Day Two: 8am—3:00pm | Location: MN Dept. of Agriculture, St. Paul

Looking to obtain a pesticide applicators license for the first time or need to re-take the exam?

Prepare for the category A and E pesticide applicator certification exam by attending this 1 ½ day study program. The workshop can also be viewed as a refresher course for those already certified.

Topics covered will include: • State Laws and Regulations • Integrated Pest Management (Insects, Diseases and Weed Control) • Pesticide Formulations • Health and Safety Issues (Toxicity, Heat Stress, Personal Protective Equipment) Taking the Exam on Day 2 is optional and will require an additional license fee due to the MN Dept. of Agriculture. Note: Attending this study course does not guarantee passing the category A & E exams.

March 21, 2012 | 11:00am—2:30pm | Northern Metro

Join other local growers on this drive yourself tour of two greenhouses in the northern metro and pick up some ideas that may help you this spring! The group will meet at Ahrens Greenhouse for a tour, have lunch on their own, and proceed to Bergen’s Greenhouses.

Visit www.MNLA.biz for registration and details for these and other programs! Questions? Call 651.633.4987.

Sponsorships are available for these seminars. Call Betsy at 763-295-5420 or e-mail betsy@pierreproductions.com.

March 27, 2012 | 9:00am—11:30am | TIES Conference Center, St. Paul

Learn the basics of tree and shrub pruning with local expert Chris Romer. Information will cover both the theory behind pruning and practical information to be used in your everyday pruning.

Demonstrations will also be included in the session.

Seminar topics will include: Basic tree biology, safety, tree pruning, why prune trees, how to prune trees, what to prune, when to prune, small tree pruning / ornamental pruning, pruning equipment, shrub pruning, natural shrub pruning, formal shrub pruning, to shear or not to shear, and an open question and answer session.

March 28, 2012 | 8:00am—5:00pm | Roseville Skating Center/Oval, Roseville

This class provides 8 hours of continuing education credits toward the Power Limited Technician (PLT) license, with material specifically oriented toward the irrigation specialist. The 8 hour class will contain 2 clock hours of specific National Electrical Code (NEC) training; and 6 hours of technical training. The 6 hours of technical training will include: Grounding and surge protection, surge protection components, grounding systems, testing equipment, troubleshooting, and locating equipment.

Sponsored by:

April 3, 2012 | 8:00am—5:00pm | TIES Conference Center, St. Paul

This one-day classroom course is designed to enhance the knowledge of individuals involved in the construction of permeable concrete paver systems. The following topics will be addressed in the curriculum: The three different PPS systems and why to use them, soil & site characteristics and which system to use for the soil you have, sub base and base materials, edge restraints, bedding and joint materials, installation of pavers, and maintenance. Following a period of instruction, a test will be offered to attendees to verify comprehension. Participants who take the course and earn a passing score on the exam (at least 75%) will receive a Certificate of Completion for the course.

Sponsored by:

Please note: This is not a hands-on course. It is a knowledge based classroom course.

Visit www.MNLA.biz for registration and details for these and other programs! Questions? Call 651.633.4987.

Sponsorships are available for these seminars. Call Betsy at 763-295-5420 or e-mail betsy@pierreproductions.com.

April 10, 2012 | 8:00am—5:00pm | MNLA Garden at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul

Properly designed and installed permeable paving systems are now being accepted as a viable solution to water management problems. This intermediate level course is designed to give direct hands-on experience to installation crew members and foremen. However, everyone from estimators to designers can benefit from participating in this course. Previous experience with modular paving is helpful, but not required.

The class will be a one day event including an introduction followed by hands-on installation training. Class size is limited to 14 people, so sign up early!

1:00pm—2:00pm | Online

Looking for cost-effective timely training options? Try an MNLA webinar! The following topics will be offered this winter/spring to help you prepare for the 2012 season: • •

Restoring Hardscapes (March 29, 2012) Raingardens (April 26, 2012)

The cost for MNLA members is only $39 per webinar connection. Why not put a computer in your conference room and have your employees gather and participate in the webinar together—just another way to cut costs.

Watch for the following tours coming this summer! Dates and details to be announced shortly.

Landscape Design Tour July 2012

Garden Center Tour August 2012

Visit www.MNLA.biz for registration and details for these and other programs! Questions? Call 651.633.4987.

Sponsorships are available for these seminars. Call Betsy at 763-295-5420 or e-mail betsy@pierreproductions.com.

The Scoop | EDUCATION

March Exhibits and Classes at the Arboretum isit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chanhassen for the following March exhibits and classes! For details, visit the website at www.arboretum.umn.edu.

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Exhibit: "Living with Orchids."

March 30-April 29. View a variety of unique orchid species and select hybrids that have been grown, selected and exhibited by Orchids Limited for over 30 years. e exhibit takes place in the Great Hall of the Oswald Visitor Center and the Snyder Building's Meyer-Deats Conservatory where visitors will find a wall of tiered orchids. e display is presented by the W. Duncan and Nivin MacMillan Foundation. For a sneak peek, read on:

"Living with Orchids" Preview Event.

March 29, 5:30-8 p.m. e Arboretum Auxiliary invites you to preview the exhibit and meet Jerry and Jason Fischer of Orchids Limited at this special evening event. Fee is $30 and includes a drink ticket and butler-passed hors d'oeuvres. A special component of the preview party will be several room vignettes and garden designs, created by local designers and incorporating orchids. (See note below if you are a garden designer interested in participating.)

Calling all garden designers: e Arboretum Auxiliary is inviting local garden designers to submit garden designs incorporating orchids for a special display at the Living with Orchids Preview Event on ursday, March 29,

from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Designers are asked to create unique garden designs incorporating hardy and tropical orchids in a unique setting. Interested designers are asked to sketch out a garden space (maximum sketch size 36" x 36") of their own design. e design must be appropriate for easel display.

Participating designers will be expected to attend the Orchid Preview Event on March 29 to discuss their designs with guests and greet the public. For more information, contact Terri Carlson at terriccarlson@gmail.com or 612-3609900. e designs will set up March 27-28 and tear down is the following Monday, April 3.

Here are more events and classes in March at the Arboretum. (To register, call 952-443-1422 or visit arboretum.umn.edu/learn.

Go to MNLA.biz for concise, useful environmental information.

Titles include: • A Stormwater Primer • Native Plants • Rain Barrels • Permaculture • Business Energy Efficiency • Residential Raingardens • Low Input Lawns

Compiled and reviewed by the MNLA Sustainable Environment Committee

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www.MNLA.biz | March 2012

Creating the Edible Landscape.

Saturday, March 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., $35 member/$45 non-member, Snyder Building. Learn how to create a yard that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. Instructor is Arboretum gardener Jeffrey Johnson.

Arboretum Spring Expo.

Friday-Sunday, March 9-11, Oswald Visitor Center. Celebrate our food heritage and support biodiversity by growing, buying and eating heirloom plants. ree-day event features speakers from Seed Savers Exchange, Timber Press authors and University of Minnesota experts. Visit www.arboretum.umn.edu.

Composting and Improving Your Soil.

Saturday, March 17, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $35 member/$45 non-member, Snyder Auditorium. Discover the essentials of what makes good soil. You will learn from gardener Dan Miller how to approach composting and create a composting system that works for best for your setting.

Pancake Brunch & Maple Syrup Tours. Saturday & Sunday, March 24 & 25, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., $9 members/ $11.50 non-members (ages 8 and older); $6 for children 4-7 and free for ages 3 and younger. Oswald Visitor Center. At this 26th annual event, enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast with Arboretum-made maple syrup. e Small Enough Garden.

Saturday, March 24, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $35 member/$45 non-member, Snyder Auditorium. In this class with Arboretum gardener Mary Bigelow, you will learn how to create a small meditative garden space.

Advanced Vegetable Gardening.

Saturday, March 31, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $35 member/$45 non-member, Snyder Building Auditorium. Learn how to make the most of your vegetable gardening space with expert gardener and vegetable fanatic Larry Cipolla. Visit www.arboretum.umn.edu or call 952443-1422 to register.

C atalo gs

Great northernhardy plants, walls, pavers, irrigation, lighting and other features for the landscape - all in the pages of Outdoor Living Catalogs.

Order online at www.mnla.biz or call Sue at 651-633-4987.

Published by Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association

March 2012 | www.MNLA.biz

33

The Scoop | EDUCATION

March Events Sponsored by MSHS Classes are sponsored by the Minnesota State Horticultural Society, but are held at various locations, as noted. Enrollment is limited, and pre-registration is requested. To register, call 651-643-3601 or 800-676-6747, ext 211.

Winter Gardening How to Grow Inside ursday, March 8, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Location: MSHS Classroom, 2705 Lincoln Drive, Roseville. $15 members, $20 nonmembers In this workshop, we'll learn how to grow micro-greens and pea shoots, which grow best inside, can be harvested every 2-3 weeks, and are delicious in salads and stir-fries. We will learn how to extend the growing season and have fresh produce from

home even in the middle of winter. Seeds, soil and small pots provided: You'll plant a seed and be able to take it home.

Instructor: Sarah Halvorson-Fried has home gardening and smallscale commercial organic farming experience. She recently graduated from Macalester College and currently works for Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and the University of Minnesota's Organic Farm.

Creating Colorful Combos for Containers Tuesday, March 13, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Location: MSHS Classroom, 2705 Lincoln Drive, Roseville. $15 members, $20 nonmembers If you’ve ever had planter envy, seeing a gorgeous mixed annual planter and wishing you knew how to recreate that mix in your own garden or patio planter, this talk’s for you. Heidi will walk through the three key components of a mixed planter, discuss some combo mechanics, and will then take you on a tour of color to give you ideas on how to create a mood or message in your planters using color.

Instructor: Heidi Doering is a horticulturist and willow grower/artist. She grows annuals and perennials for a twin cities wholesale greenhouse. Travel to numerous independent and university trials during summer months gives her a plethora of ‘color’ experiences to share with upper Midwest gardeners during the short days of winter when all of us are feeling a bit colorstarved.

Incorporating Annuals in the Landscape Tuesday, March 20, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Location: MSHS Classroom, 2705 Lincoln Drive, Roseville. $25 members, $30 nonmembers Learn about annuals that will thrive in sunny and shady sites, their basic requirements such as moisture levels, air circulation, pests and when to deadhead.

Instructor: Mary Maguire Lerman is a retired horticulturalist from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. She is a designer of private and park gardens and a contributing writer to Northern Gardener.

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www.MNLA.biz | March 2012

Spring at the Inn - A Sneak Peek at New Plants for 2012 *A Fundraiser for MSHS* ursday, March 29, 12 to 2 p.m.

Lake Elmo Event Center (Owned by the Lake Elmo Inn), 3712 Layton Ave. N., Lake Elmo. $40 per person, $5 discount for MSHS members Join us for a memorable lunch at the Lake Elmo Inn Event Center, featuring a "Plant Fashion Show" where you'll see new plant introductions before they are in the garden centers this spring. Bailey Nursery will provide a variety of plants to spark your interest in this spring's new offerings. Belinda Jensen and Bobby Jensen from KARE 11 will join us as Masters of Ceremonies. Gift bags and door prizes, which will include the featured plants, will add to the fun. Your choice among four luncheon entrees, coffee or tea, dessert and gratuity are included. For more information, visit www.northerngardener.org. Reservations required: 651-6433601 / 1-800-676-6747.

Create a Fresh Flower Vase Arrangement Saturday, March 31, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Location: Koehler and Dramm’s Institute for Floristry Wholesale Florists, 2407 Hennepin Avenue East, Minneapolis.

Directions: http://www.koehlerdramm.com/pages/iof/iof.html $30 member, $35 nonmember Hana Kubari means “natural support system” and is an Asian floral design style where you create a secure base in which to place the fresh flowers. Ardith will show you many ways and products to use for easier vase designing. You will create a delightful fresh spring design including a stylish glass vase using the Hana Kubari technique.

Instructor: Ardith Beveridge is the Director of Education and an instructor at the Institute of Floristry. She has been invited to be a floral designer for the Tournament of Roses Parades, Presidential Inaugurations and annual decorating of the White House. Ardith teaches nationally and internationally, appears on Home and Garden Television and is the author of several books.

Seed Starting with Mini Greenhouses Tuesday, April 3, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Location: MSHS Classroom, 2705 Lincoln Drive, Roseville. $17 members, $22 nonmembers In this workshop, we will discuss the benefits of starting seeds indoors and construct "mini-greenhouses" out of plastic cups to take home. Bring your own seeds or use the ones provided.

Instructor: Sarah Halvorson-Fried has home gardening and smallscale commercial organic farming experience. She recently graduated from Macalester College and currently works for Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and the University of Minnesota's Organic Farm. e Development of Small Fruit and Tree Fruit Cultivars at UW-River Falls ursday, April 5, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Location: MSHS Classroom, 2705 Lincoln Drive, Roseville. $15 members, $20 nonmembers Learn more about fruit breeding with Brian Smith of UWRiver Falls and what they do to achieve new fruit cultivars.

Brian will tell you what is involved in the hybridization process, how they maintain the parental stock, seedling growth out in the field, identification of selections, and evaluation of those elite selections. He will also discuss grower and university testing and the release process. Find out what cultivars have already been released and which ones are upcoming releases.

Instructor: Dr. Brian Smith is an Extension Commercial Fruit Specialist who helps growers make improvements in cultural efficiency to remain competitive, improve their profitability, diversify their operations, and respond to changing government regulation of pesticide usage. He has conducted many in-depth fruit schools, organizes the berry portion of the Wisconsin statewide grower conference, and regularly teaches Master Gardeners.

Call Bridgewater Tree Farms for Your Spring Tree Orders Please call for Field Direct Pricing.

Delivery Available 5’ to 14’ Spruce & Pine 5’ to 12’ Techny Arborvitae Shade and Ornamentals too

Carefully grown on heavy southern Minnesota loam soil.

Just off Interstate 35 in Northfield, Minnesota.

Dave Maloney office (507) 663-0393 • cell (612) 221-0514 or email il davem@bridgewatertreefarms.com d @b id t t f March 2012 | www. www.MNLA.biz w MNLA.biz w. i iz

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The Scoop | MDA UPDATE

Pesticide Specialty Fertilizer, Soil and Plant Amendment Registration

By John Sierk, Consultant Pesticide Registration and Carol Durden, Program Administrator Fertilizer Registration he Pesticide Control Law and Specialty Fertilizer and Soil and Plant Amendment Law require that MDA register all pesticides, specialty fertilizers and soil and plant amendments before they can be sold or distributed in Minnesota. Specialty fertilizers are for use on places such as greenhouses, nurseries, home gardens, house plants, home lawns, shrubs, golf courses, park and cemeteries. Soil amendments improve the structural, physical, or biological characteristics of the soil or modify organic matter in the soil.

Plant amendments improve germination, growth, yield, product quality, reproduction, flavor, or other desirable

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characteristics of plants. Bulk agricultural fertilizers and agricultural liming materials are not included in these regulations. All pesticides, including those used in agriculture and those used for non-agricultural purposes, are required to be registered. The MDA registers more than 12,000 pesticide and 4,000 specialty fertilizer and soil and plant amendment products each year.

The MDA routinely inspects the marketplace to verify compliance with the pesticide, specialty fertilizer and soil and plant amendment registration requirement. When unregistered products are found, the MDA will take action to bring those products and their distributors into compliance. Wholesalers, distributors, dealers and retailers are encouraged to ensure that they are distributing and selling only pesticide, specialty fertilizer and soil and plant amendment products that are properly registered with MDA. Persons can determine the registration status of pesticide, specialty fertilizer and soil and plant amendment products by going to the MDA website at http://www2.mda.state.mn.us/webapp/lis/productsdefault.jsp. _________________________________________________ If you have questions or want additional information please contact John Sierk (Pesticide) at 651-201-6291 or john.sierk@state.mn.us, or Carol Durden (Specialty Fertilizer, Soil/Plant Amendment) at 651-201-6379 or carol.durden@state.mn.us.

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CERTIFIED Professional

Congratulations!

New MNLA Certified Professionals Passing the MNLA CP Exam on January 20, 2012

From left to right, front row: Sarah King, Greenside, Inc.; Paula Welch, Vintage Garden Horticulture Services LLC; eresa Helgeson, University of Minnesota - Crookston; Sarah Stoesz, Bailey Nurseries, Inc.; Catherine Hildebrandt; Tiffany Noel, Bailey Nurseries, Inc. Back row: Garrett Beier, University of Minnesota; Gary Pagel, Gertens; Jim Westlund, Knecht's Nurseries and Landscaping; Nathan Amberson, Blackstone Hardscape; Justin Schiroo, Tangletown Gardens LLC Also passing the exam, but not pictured: Jeff Hurst, Turf Dawgs, Inc.; Leona Opp; and Alyssa Schell, Mickman Brothers, Inc.

30” Deck

Shakopee: 952/445-6310 Anoka: 763/323-1720 Loretto: 763/479-8200

Investing in our Customers Since 1946 See dealer or toro.com (toro.ca for Canadian residents) for warranty details. Product availability, pricing & special promotions are subject to dealer options.

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The Scoop | CERTIFICATION

Take the Anxiety Out of Certification Exam

By Ernie Hammero, Berg's Nursery & Landscapes LLC have a confession to make. I am a people watcher. I am the type of person that likes to sit back and observe the dynamics of a CERTIFIED Professional group of people. I guess I enjoy trying to read people, their mannerisms and personalities. At the last MNLA certification test January 20th at Hennepin Technical College I was in the lobby with the hopeful certified professional, and one mannerism I noticed the most was anxiety. Sure, there were the few that you could tell just by looking at them that they were well prepared and were going to have no problem with the exam, and you had the few that were not there by choice, but you could tell everyone had some level of anxiety. For me, at least walking into an unknown, always raised my level of anxiety. The purpose of this article and every article in this section of the Scoop is to help you succeed. I want to help with some of your anxieties, particularly focusing on test day and what to expect.

I

Certification tests are given twice a year: once in January, then again in March. Testing is generally scheduled on a Friday at 8:30 am. Show up to the test early. We live in Minnesota, so plan for bad weather, traffic etc. Give yourself enough travel time. At the last test we had quite a few people coming in late due to the weather and started the test highly stressed. I am confident that a few of the people who came late to the test did not pass because they were late and the stress it caused.

The Certification test begins at 8:30 am. You are given four hours to finish. We find this is plenty of time if you are prepared and have studied the Manual. Every answer to the test is in the Manual. We provide you with the tools to succeed - just study the Manual. You can tell the applicants that have read and studied the Manual cover to cover. They finish in as quickly as two and a half hours. Maybe it was the added anxiety of the weather and showing up late, but time management seemed to be a major problem at the last test. You have four hours to complete it, manage your time wisely. If you are stumbling on a few questions, skip them and move on, come back to them later, but circle the ones you skipped on your answer sheet so you don't forget to go back to it if time allows.

Everyone takes the general hort test along with a specialty.

The general hort test consists of matching, true and false,

multiple choice, and a plant Id. The plant id portion is multiple choice, and tests your knowledge with multimedia images and live plant samples. The general hort test has around a hundred questions.

There are three specialty groups: grower, retail, and landscape. An interesting side note that surprised me was the most popular specialty lately has been landscape, not retail like I assumed.

Once everyone has their testing material and is seated, we walk you through the tests and answer sheet, and any pre-test questions. An hour into the test we start the plant id portion.

Slides of plant material are projected onto a screen twice. After the slide portion is over, you can continue where you left off or proceed with the live samples and picture cards.

The specialty tests are similar in format to the general hort, around one hundred questions including true and false and multiple choice.

Testing is concluded at 12:30 pm and grading begins.

Typically, grading is finished and scores are posted at 2:30 pm.

At 2:30 you are able to review your test. The review is a valuable tool for those who did not pass to assess their weaknesses. One thing I think that is not well known is if you

"If something is important, you will always feel some level of anxiety." h test but b not the h other, h you do d not have h to pass one part off the retake the part you passed. For example, if you pass the general hort portion but not the grower section, the next testing date all you have to do is retake the grower portion.

The test over the years has changed, and will change again from its current format I am sure. But one thing will stay the same - all of the answers are in the Manual. I believe that if something is important, you will always feel some level of anxiety, but hopefully it will not handicap you, and knowing a little more about the process will help you succeed. ________________________________________________ Ernie Hammero is the chair of the Certification Committee and can be reached at ehammero@hotmail.com.

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The Scoop | CERTIFICATION

Certification: Magic from the Manual Buyer’s Guide for Importing Nursery Stock Into Minnesota

By Bert T. Swanson, Swanson’s Nursery Consulting, Inc. o facilitate pest-free shipments of nursery stock into Minnesota, the following guidelines have been developed by the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA). These guidelines are intended for Bert Swanson use in the process of importing nursery stock or related materials into Minnesota from other states or countries. These guidelines must be followed in order to:

T

1. Protect Minnesota’s environment from the potentially devastating effects of regulated or exotic plant pests.

2. Protect Minnesota nursery, landscape, and related horticultural businesses from the costs associated with business disruption, pest control, and possibly eradication of regulated or exotic plant pests.

Screen and Select Product Sources Carefully Be aware of regulated pest status in the states or counties of origin from which the stock is being purchased. Contact MDA for current information on regulated plants or pests. Purchase products from areas known to be free of regulated plant pests to reduce required regulations and restrictions.

When purchasing nursery stock or related materials through brokers, insist that they provide the state and country of origin for all products purchased. Ask each supplier about pest monitoring and/or control programs relative to their company for the stock being purchased. Select suppliers that use systems which ensure compliance with state and federal plant pest regulations and quarantines.

Ensure Product is Adequately Certified At the time of ordering plant material or related products, indicate that proper state or federal certification will be required with all shipments as a condition of purchase. Inform suppliers that failure to provide proper certification at the time of shipment may void the transaction. Request written evidence prior to shipment that stock purchased will be certified by state or federal authorities to be pest free at the time of shipment. For federally regulated pests, a copy of a current nursery certification or license alone is not adequate.

To minimize potential problems at the time of shipping, 40

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CERTIFIED Professional

request sample documentation that will accompany each shipment from each vendor at the beginning of each new year.

If there is any question regarding specific documentation required, contact MDA (651-201-6619). Also request state and county of origin information as part of an order acknowledgement as this information is required by a Minnesota State Statute.

Require that each shipment of all products be accompanied by all necessary certification documentation. If possible, have the shipper forward such documentation via fax or email prior to receiving shipment. Lack of proper documentation should void a transaction. If any questions exist about the documents received from suppliers, fax them to MDA (651-201-6108) for review and approval.

Receiving, Handling, Storage, and Record Keeping Upon receipt of nursery stock or related products, review certification documentation prior to unloading any part of the shipment. Certification documents must be dated the same year as the shipment or be valid based upon an expiration date.

Growing season inspection reports may be dated up to 12 months earlier. If the products are not properly certified, contact the supplier prior to unloading. If certification is not possible, the shipment should be refused.

If federal quarantines are involved such as plants originating from eastern states for gypsy moth, southern states for fire ant, ash trees from Michigan and any barberry plants, a federal stamp or sticky label affirming that the plants meet all applicable state and federal quarantines is required on the shipping documentation. Do not accept shipment without this documentation or without the stamp as shown in Figure 1.

Until the plants are unloaded, they are covered under interstate regulations. Call the USDA office at 612-725-1721 for assistance with any of this documentation.

Figure 1. Federal stamp required on shipping documents for specific nursery stock to certify that it has been properly inspected for shipment.

Conduct visual inspections during unloading as much as possible. If a regulated plant pest is discovered, close the shipping container and notify the MDA at 651-201-6619 and/or USDA at 612-725-1721 for recommended action. Also contact the supplier immediately. It is strongly recommended that firms importing product from regulated areas conduct training for identification of regulated pests with all employees who will be in a position to find such a pest. Contact MDA for assistance with training materials and curriculum.

Maintain all shipping records including packing lists and certification documentation for each shipment received.

Maintain these records in an orderly fashion for a minimum of two seasons. These records must be available for inspection by MDA or USDA as needed.

Maintain constant awareness among staff throughout the year to be on the watch for signs of regulated or unusual pests.

Maintain proper cultural practices and chemical pest control measures if applicable to control these pests. Cooperate with MDA and/or USDA efforts, including trapping, to monitor and prevent the spread of these pests.

The possible introduction of exotic plant pests is a growing threat to the Nursery and Landscape businesses and to the environment. Prevention of this introduction via importation of plant material will require great care, and possibly changes to business practices. The potential costs associated with importation of these pests will more than justify an increased due diligence in the buying, shipping and receiving processes.

Example Examination Questions 1. Guidelines for importing nursery stock and related materials into Minnesota from other states or countries must be followed in order to: A. Provide proper pest management techniques.

B. Protect plants from over fertilization.

C. Protect Minnesota’s environment from regulated or exotic plant pests.

D. Insure that plants arrive on time.

E. Insure that the ordered species and quantities are correct.

2. T F e receiving company has no responsibility in checking for proper documentation and certification of stock arriving at that company.

3. T F For Federally regulated pests, a copy of a current nursery certification or license alone is not adequate.

4. T F Until plants shipped from a Regulated Area are unloaded from the truck, they are covered under Interstate Regulations.

5. T F Shipping records, including packing lists and certificate documentation for each shipment received should be available for inspection by MDA or USDA for a minimum of two seasons.

Answers 1. C; 2. F; 3. T; 4. T; 5. T. March 2012 | www.MNLA.biz

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New Plant Forum continued from page 14 Je Anderson, Gardenworld, Jesse In Inc.

E Echinacea ‘piccolino’ ppaF p p piccolino coneflower O Origin: bred by Marco van Noort, e Netherlands N U USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9 H Height and Spread: 9-11” x 9111” A Availability: plugs available ffrom r Gardenworld, Inc. P Propagation method: tissue cculture e first compact double Ec E chinac very floriferous, with strong ch Echinacea, stems and a long bloom time.

Jesse Anderson, Gardenworld, Inc.

Lilium ‘Tiny Spider’ Tiny Spider lily O Origin: Mak Breeding USDA Cold Hardiness U Zones: 3-9 Z H Height and Spread: 14116” A Availability: G Gardenworld, IInc/Growing Colors P Propagation method: bbulb A great addition to the ‘S ‘Sensation Series’, with i kfl h h kl Compact habit. pink flowers that have a maroon speckle.

Jim Stolzenburg, Bailey Nurseries, Inc.

Ilex verticillata ‘Bailfire’ First editions® Wildfire™ winterberry O Origin: discovered by Gordie Bailey, Bailey Nurseries, Inc. B USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 4-9 U Height and Spread: 6-7’ X 8’ H Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. A Propagation P method: softwood cuttings is  female selection offers multi-season interest in with pure white flowers, dark green foliage f fo and abundantly large, bright red fruit fr that persists into winter. Compact, rounded habit creates a wonderful foundation plant, specimen or hedge. Southern Gentlemen is needed for pollination.

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Brenda Wickenhauser, Bailey Nurseries, Inc.

Cornus alba ‘Minbat’ First editions® Baton Rouge™ dogwood Origin: Minier Nursery, France USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 307 Height and Spread: 3’-4’ x 3’-4’ Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. Propagation method: softwood cuttings Selected for its naturally compact, bushy habit and vivid red stems, Baton Rouge offers amazing year round interest for any landscape.

White spring flowers are followed by at are attractive to birds. Medium green white berries that foliage transforms to a brilliant reddish purple hue in autumn. Bright red stems of winter make a spectacular display.

Jesse Anderson, Gardenworld, Inc.

Heuchera ‘Stainless Steel’ Stainless Steel coral bells Origin: bred by Charles Oliver of e Primrose Path and introduced by Plants Nouveau USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8 Height and Spread: 8-12” x 20-24” flowers 18” above the foliage Availability: GardenWorld, Inc. Propagation method: tissue culture is is a medium-sized Heuchera with silvery-metallic new growth. Each new leaf is almost completely silver, except for a thin tracery of dark veining. As the leaves mature, the veining becomes much more pronounced and the overall effect is a cooling, sea foam green that will brighten up any shady spot. Mature leaves reach 3-4” across and have a contrasting underside of deep, eggplant purple. Large white flowers that are displayed on chocolate brown stalks, to 18” in height.

Extremely drought tolerant.

Vickie Pondell, Bailey Nurseries, Inc.

Rosa ‘BaIbox’ easy elegance® Music Box shrub rose Origin: bred at Bailey Nurseries, Inc. USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 4-9 Height and Spread: 36” x 36” Availability: Bailey Nurseries Inc. Propagation method: softwood cuttings A very colorful everblooming shrub rose with double, 2” wide flowers with creamy yellow centers surrounded by delicate pink blends. Glossy green foliage is resistant to disease.

Excellent variety for a small informal hedge.

Vickie Pondell, Bailey Nurseries, Inc. V

R Rosa ‘BaIcham’ easy elegance® Champagne Wishes shrub rose e O Origin: bred at Bailey Nurseries, Inc. USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 4-7 U Height and Spread: 3-4’ x 3-4’ H Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. A P Propagation method: softwood cuttings C Clusters of pale apricot buds open fully to 3” double blooms of antique white with just a h hint of apricot before fading to a clear white. Foliage is medium green and disease resistant.

Robin Leach wants one!

R

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Vickie Pondell, Bailey Nurseries, Inc. V

H Hydrangea paniculata ‘Le Vasterival’ pp20,272 F First editions® great Star panicle hydrangea O Origin: the garden of Princess Sturdza, Normandy, France USDA U Cold Hardiness Zones: 4-8 H Height and Spread: 6-7’ x 7-8’ A Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. P Propagation method: softwood cuttings A shining star in the late summer garden, Great Star has large flower heads ccontaining both fertile and sterile flowers. e showy star-shaped sterile flowers are u up to 4” in width and are a creamy white in color. Starts blooming in late July into A August and will last through the rest of the season. e plant itself has an upright aarching habit. Best in full sun sites.

Carolyn Jones, BFG Supply Company

Verbena hybrida Lanai® ‘Twister pink’ Lanai® Twister pink verbena Origin: bred and introduced by Syngenta Flowers/Goldfisch Vegetative USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: annual in Minnesota (zone 10) Height and Spread: 6-10” x 20-24” Availability: young plants through Syngenta, Malmborgs, Mast, Raker, Wenke, finished plants available from many bedding plant growers throughout Minnesota Propagation method: softwood cuttings is is a beautiful new verbena that will wow your customers. It looks great on its r that creates “rings” of color r, own, or in combination with other pink plants, or complimentary colors. e flower is a bi-color, color. It is powdery mildew resistant and has a great mounding/trailing habit. Excellent for hanging baskets, pots or in the garden.

Troy Lucht, Malmborg’s Greenhouse T

S Sutera cordata ‘White Wedding’ W White Wedding bacopa O Origin: bred by Westflowers in Germany U USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: annual H Height and Spread: trailing, to 2’ or more long A Availability: most all liner suppliers and many finished growers P Propagation method: softwood cuttings G Great for mixed combination plantings, this new bacopa has green foliage and extremely e large white flowers that are roughly the size of a quarter. Tolerates partial p to full sun, needs even moisture.

Troy Lucht, Malmborg’s Greenhouse

Pelargonium ‘elanos Blue’ elanos Blue geranium Origin: bred by PAC Elsner in Germany USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: annual Height and Spread: Availability: most all liner suppliers and many finished growers Propagation method: cuttings A very unique shade of lavender blue with large flower petals.

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Troy Lucht, Malmborg’s Greenhouse

Brenda Wickenhauser, Bailey Nurseries, Inc.

Cuphea ramosissima ‘Cuphoric pink’ Cuphoric™ pink cuphea

Rosa ‘BaImas’ easy elegance® pinktopia shrub rose

Origin: bred and introduced by Syngenta USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: annual Height and Spread: Availability: most all liner suppliers and many finished growers Propagation method: vegetative cuttings Compact, semi-trailing cuphea that blooms profusely with pink flowers. Extremely heat and drought tolerant.

Origin: Bred at Bailey Nurseries, Inc. USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 4-9 Height and Spread: 4’ x 4’ Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. g Propagation method: softwood cuttings Pinktopia is an ideal accent or hedge plant.

Masses of pink semi double 3” wide flowers are surrounded by dark green foliage with red new growth. A recurrent bloomer.

Brenda Wickenhauser, Bailey Nurseries, Inc. B

C Cornus sericea ‘Bailadeline’ ppaF F First editions® Firedance™ dogwood O Origin: discovered as a sport of ‘Isanti’ at Bailey Nurseries, Inc. U USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 2-7 H Height and Spread: 3-4’ x 4-5’ A Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. P Propagation method: softwood cuttings F Firedance™ is similar to ‘Isanti’ yet has a much more compact, uniform habit. It also has less ffoliar problems than the species. In spring it blooms with a lovely white flower ultimately fo fforming white berries that the birds love. Fall color is a nice red to purple tone. Red stems fo aare a real standout in winter and are great for cuts.

March 2012 | www.MNLA.biz

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Alec Charais, Bailey Nurseries, Inc. A

J Juniperus scopulorum ‘Bailigh’ F First editions® Sky High juniper C Cupressaceae O Origin: selected in North Dakota by Dave McNamara of Bailey Nurseries, Inc. U USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 3-7 H Height and Spread: 12-15’ x 3-5’ A Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. P Propagation method: graft A Attractive silvery-blue, very dense foliage highlights this improved variety of Rocky Mountain juniper.

S columnar in form, it requires little pruning to maintain its narrow shape. Full sun. Tolerant of Strongly d dry soil conditions.

Alec Charais, Bailey Nurseries, Inc.

Symphoricarpos x doorenbosii ‘Kolmagics’ ppaF First editions® Sweet coralberry Origin: bred by Peter Kolster, e Netherlands USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 4-9 Height and Spread: 30-36” x 30-36” Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc., other FE network growers Propagation method: softwood cuttings A great plant for the autumn landscape. Large, plump, rose-pink berries ripen in early fall ith the decorative berries that remain and are borne along the stem. As the leaves drop in autumn, each arching stem is adorned with 9:18 PM Page 1 on the slender branches all winter. Great front of the border plant with its relatively short stature. Full sun.

and Nationwide Agribusiness

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Dr. David Zlesak, University of Wisconsin-River Falls

Physocarpus opulifolius ‘donna May’ ppaF First editions® Little devil™ ninebark Origin: bred by Dr David Zlesak in St. Paul, MN USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 3-7 Height and Spread: 3-4’ x 3-4’ Availability: Bailey Nurseries, Inc and many other First Editions® network growers Propagation method: softwood cutting Little Devil™ ninebark combines a truly dwarf habit in a very well-branched, dense plant with rich chocolate-purple foliage color. It has an attractive floral display in late spring with cimen in groupings, groupings in an informal info f rmal fo clusters of blush pink blooms that offset well against the dark foliage. Use in full sun as a specimen, hedge or even in containers. Winner of the ANLA Garden Idol award for best new plant in 2011.

Carolyn Jones, BFG Supply Company C

O Osteospermum ecklonis a akila™ series african daisy O Origin: bred by PanAmerican Seed Co. U USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: annual in Minnesota H Height and Spread: 16-20” x 16-20” A Availability: many plug producers, including Wagners Greenhouses, Raker, Gro N SSell, Green Circle, seed available from PanAmerican Seed Co. P Propagation method: seed A new African daisy from seed that is the most compact series available. Plants branch without pinching pinching, are very unifo uniform f rm in size an fo and flowering window, and no vernalization needed. Drought resistant in the garden. 3 colors – purple, white and lavender shades plus a mix are available.

Carolyn Jones, BFG Supply Company

Dr. David Zlesak, University of Wisconsin-River Falls

Hibiscus acetosella ‘Mahogany Splendor’ Mahogany Splendor hibiscus

Ageratum Monarch Mediano™ ppaF

Origin: bred by PanAmerican Seed Co. USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: annual in Minnesota Height and Spread: 3-5’ x 24-30” Availability: many plug producers, including Wagners Greenhouses, Raker, Gro N Sell, Green Circle, seed available from PanAmerican Seed Co. Propagation method: seed is is a beautiful new foliar accent plant for the garden and large containers, looks similar to a Japanese maple. It has a lovely lo dark burgundy b color that th looks great in the garden, the th leaves are maple shaped m with w serrated edges. e Drought, heat D and a deer resistant.

Great re for f cut stems. fo

Origin: bred by Dr David Zlesak in St. Paul, MN USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 9-10, annual in Minnesota Height and Spread: Mediano grows 10-16” tall and wide, Grande grows 16-24” tall and wide Availability: through PlantPeddler in Cresco, Iowa for young plants Propagation method: stem cuttings and tissue culture e Monarch™ ageratum series bring “South of the Border” excitement to greenhouses and gardens. ese interspecific crosses incorporate a little-known Mexican ageratum species p y and creates a whole new class of ageratum. Plants display exceptional vigor, garden performance, and improved butterfly appeal-attracting clouds of its namesake. ere is a medium (Monarch Mediano™) and large (Monarch Grande™) series, each with a range of colors. Plants have smoother foliage than typical ageratum and a more expanded inflorescence displayed nicely above the foliage. Excellent vase life as a cut flower as well.

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2012 MnLa Landscape awardWinners Residential Rear Yard Design

Grand Honor Awards

Nathan Anderson Ground One Enterprises

Residential Rear Yard Design

Pat Weiss Ground One Enterprises

Residential Rear Yard Design

Daryl Melquist Bachman's Inc.

Residential Rear Yard Design

Merit Awards Residential Rear Yard Design Shannon O'Halloran, Field Outdoor Spaces Peter Boyle, Windsor Companies Heather Grossmann, Mom's Landscaping & Design LLC Residential Front Yard Design Becca Bastyr, Mom's Landscaping & Design LLC David Kopfmann, Yardscapes, Inc. Residential Full Yard Design Josh Koller, Southview Design Commercial Design Leanna Sweetland, Sarah's Cottage Creations

Glenn Switzer Switzer's Nursery & Landscaping Inc.

Specialty Projects Design Ann Standish, Heidi's Lifestyle Gardens Residential Rear Yard Design

Derek Harwood Ground One Enterprises

Commercial Installation Daniel Wellens, Mom's Landscaping & Design LLC

Commercial Management

Mindy Zittel

Specialty Projects Installation Craig Weckman, Mom's Landscaping & Design LLC

Designing Nature Inc.

Commercial Installation

Clayton Johnson Yardscapes Inc.

Landscape Awards Program Sponsors

Residential Rear Yard Installation omas Knox, Phillips Garden

Residential Full Yard Management Tami Gallagher, Home Sown Gardens, LLC Jeanette Torkelson, Home Sown Gardens, LLC Commercial Management Diane Cutler, Sarah's Cottage Creations

Media Sponsor

Gala Print Sponsor

Specialty Projects Management Leah Marquez, Mom's Landscaping & Design LLC

The enclosed issue of Garden Minnesota Yearbook includes photos of all award winners, and all winning projects have a photo gallery on GardenMinnesota.com.

2011-12 Scholarship Winner Profiles A portion of the 2011-12 scholarship winners were profiled in the February Scoop. e remaining scholarship profiles are featured this month.

Melissa Irizarry

Brianna Johnson

Sponsored by: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. School: Iowa State University Major: horticulture expected graduation: Spring 2013

Sponsored by: Rochester Arborist Workshop School: rochester community and Technical college Major: horticulture Science expected graduation: May 2012

please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: My parents always had a garden when I was growing up. One of my earliest memories is of my mother cutting open bales of straw for mulch and having garter snakes come rushing out. My grandmother gave me my first seeds and I still think of her when I see four o'clocks and zinnias. I worked in several restaurants and became interested in using the freshest ingredients and how to grow them. This led me into working at two greenhouses and growing my own garden at my house. I realized I should pursue this field for a career when I would come home from working with plants all day and still be excited to garden at home. I love this industry. I am excited about the direction it is headed and the opportunities that are available.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? I am enjoying college so much that I am planning on continuing on to graduate school. I would like to research ways to increase local food productivity and season extension. My career plans center around local food and encouraging people to develop a connection with their food. Even if they are not growing it themselves, they should know how it was grown and where it comes from. My dream is to bring a level of food security and sustainability to my community. I want to help people's health through gardening and food. I feel this is achieved through being better connected to the environment, eating nutrient dense foods, and developing a connection to nature. I would like to work with schools to start schoolyard gardening programs that teach students how to grow and prepare food. I would also like to use my experience to write articles and give presentations to teach others about gardening. I am hoping this will lead me to work overseas in an impoverished area. I would like to use my experience to help people develop a sustainable food growing program that will better their lives long term, while allowing them to maintain their culture. Food is one of the most important aspects in our lives. By helping to find better ways to grow it, people will be healthier and have a better chance at enjoying the other benefits of society and life in general.

please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: I became interested in the horticulture industry after completing a term of service with the Minnesota conservation corps. Working with the corps, I did a number of hands on projects with plants and trees which I really enjoyed. I decided then that I wanted to make a career out of working with flowers, plants, and trees.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? after I graduate, I plan on working in the greenhouse industry. I am going to work another season at Pork and Plants which is a greenhouse in southeast Minnesota and is also where I completed my internship. after gaining some more experience, I would like to work as a grower in large scale greenhouse productions. I have also

Brianna Johnson continued on page 50

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2011-12 Scholarship Winner Profiles Brianna Johnson continued from page 49 recently become more interested in landscape design and am thinking of becoming more involved with that aspect of the green industry. My long term goal is to open my own greenhouse business in the future.

t Lexi Salonek Sponsored by: Countryside Gardens, Inc. School: University of Minnesota crookston Major: Production horticulture expected graduation: 2015 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: For the past four years I have been working on a gardening crew in countryside Gardens which has opened my eyes up to what all I can learn. I knew after working there that I wanted to learn more about how to take care of the plants and all of their names.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? I would like to own my very own gardening service and take care of clients’ flower and vegetable gardens. I hope to have a business just as successful as my boss’ at countryside Gardens.

t alisha aasness Sponsored by: Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and Landscape School: University of Minnesota crookston Major: horticulture with a double emphasis in Production horticulture and Environmental Landscaping; Business Management Minor expected graduation: 5/5/2012 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: I got interested in the green industry through a summer job that I held when I was 16. I loved learning more about plants and primarily helping customers pick ones that would attribute to their desired landscape. I love creating different color schemes and seeing them all come together through texture, smell, and colors.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? My future plans include getting a landscape design job. I want to be able to integrate sustainable landscape features into everyday landscapes; business as well as residential. I also want to be able to own my own 50

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business. I want to join my love and passion for plants and landscapes with spreadsheets and business transactions.

t Morgan Mangelsen Sponsored by: Robin D. Linder Memorial Scholarship School: University of Minnesota-St. Paul Major: horticulture expected graduation: 2013 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: My interest in this industry was cultivated by the internship I had this summer. For the internship, I worked in the horticulture Department’s Display and Trial Garden. Weeding, watering, mulching, and general gardening tasks were the main duties. however, I most enjoyed being able to redesign areas of the garden and meet people that would share their gardening experiences with various perennials. Understanding the characteristics that people desired in a perennial and being able to experience what it is like to have a garden strengthened my interest in a green industry area of study.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? I am excited to pursue my interest in horticulture and obtain a Doctorate degree in Plant Breeding. I plan to attend graduate school at cornell University in Ithaca, New York. Following graduate school, my goal is to become a professor at a research-oriented university and develop new varieties of perennial bulbs and woody landscape plants.

t gregory Matthews Sponsored by: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. School: University of Minnesota-St. Paul Major: BS horticulture expected graduation: December 2012

please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: When I was 14 years old, culbert Nursery hired me after school and on weekends to transplant petunias. Through this experience, I developed a passion for the green industry that is still growing today. Life has its ups and downs but it has led me to the University of Minnesota pursuing a bachelor degree in horticulture and this is just one stepping stone on the path to success. Thank you, culbert’s.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? after graduation I plan on starting my own wholesale and retail nursery in the Twin cities. My business will encompass all the aspects that I have learned through work experience and that which I am still learning at the U of M. My future business is founded in faith in christ, in whom all things are possible.

2011-12 Scholarship Winner Profiles alexander plattes Sponsored by: Wilson’s Nursery, Inc. School: University of Minnesota-St. Paul Major: horticultural Science expected graduation: Spring 2012 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: It began with a general interest in the natural sciences. When I arrived at the University of Minnesota as an Environmental Science major, I was asked to select a specific area of study, or track within the major.

When I could not decide on a track, I determined that I should select a new major. after spending the previous summer as a Plant community Ecology Intern at cedar creek Ecosystem Science reserve, I developed an appreciation for plant sciences and a desire to learn more about them. Once I became a horticultural Science major, my interest in the natural sciences kicked back in and my focus changed from plant sciences to landscape restoration and ecology. Since my initial interest in the natural world was in part due to a passion for environmental stewardship, I developed the belief that there is no better form of environmental stewardship than planting and restoring landscapes. My current area of study within horticultural Science is restoring landscapes.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? Once I graduate I hope to attend graduate school where I will study Landscape architecture and Urban and regional Planning. From there I hope to have a career either in the green industry or one that at least allows me to be very close to it. Some possibilities include working for a landscape design firm, working in urban planning, managing a nursery, or working for a park board or watershed district. all of these would be preferably in the Twin cities.

t eric north Sponsored by: Rochester Arborist Workshop School: University of Minnesota-St. Paul Major: Forest resources - Urban and community Forestry expected graduation: May 2012 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: I started my first professional career in the Information Technology (IT) industry in 1999.

In 2007, I had the opportunity to travel to Kenya, africa visiting several national parks. While there, I was able to talk

with my naturalist guide whose knowledge and understanding of the ecosystems we were touring provided greater enjoyment and appreciation of those systems. My guide also spoke of his work within his community on a reforestation effort. his community’s goal was to increase the number of trees planted with species native to the region. My experiences in Kenya started my plan to change careers. In January of 2009, I enrolled in my first class at the University of Minnesota – Twin cities to begin my studies in Urban Forestry.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? I plan on finishing my undergraduate degree with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry resources in the Urban and community Forestry track in the spring semester of 2012. I would like to continue my studies in the Master of Science in Natural resources Sciences and Management program, specializing in urban forestry with a focus on community involvement and education through continued work with Professor Johnson. I hope to continue working in and with communities and cities to help create natural resource tools and programs around urban forestry.

t Korbin paul Sponsored by: Tangletown Gardens LLC School: University of Minnesota-St. Paul Major: horticulture - Independent Track expected graduation: May 2013 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: The interface of healthy ecosystems and food production intrigues me, mostly because I am a "foody", meaning conscious eater whose life revolves around food, and plants are one of the most fascinating organisms to me. Since our global population is facing a lot of environmental pressures, I feel that it is good work for me to grow food to create healthy ecosystems that can be sustainably harvested. Designing models that accomplish this in different climates and zones is a definite mission as I step into the green industry.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? My first career goal is to gain professional experience and stabilize my finances; somewhere like Out Back Nursery and Landscaping in hastings, MN is where I envision beginning. The nursery’s mission of teaching and providing opportunities for all involved to experience humankind’s interdependence with plants while gaining respect for natural environments resonates with me. The company aims to do this through offering accessibility to their NativeFloraTM line, something I feel I can both learn from and add to with my knowledge of medicinal and wild edible plants. I feel that starting out in this niche of the industry will foster my understanding of

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2011-12 Scholarship Winner Profiles Korbin K bi Paul P l continued i d ffrom page 51 how to economically provide the horticultural plants and services that I seek to offer. This understanding will enact my next goal of contracting myself out as a Wild Foodscape designer. a chapter of hands-on experience, I plan to design and install sustainable food and medicine systems in all types of land and spaces, both private and public, residential and remote. This process will stimulate the local food market by adding more diverse crops grown wildcultivated, a term I am coining to describe this interface. It will help people become more self-sufficient and give them direct access to healthy foods. I plan to focus on a wide range of plants and plant medicines including black walnut, nannyberry, wild grape, pawpaw, hawthorn, ginkgo, pincherry, chokeberry, chokecherry, service berry, hazelnut, oak, elderberry, horsetail, wild leeks, horehound, etc. My goal is to understand dynamics between and amongst different plant species as well as other biological and environmental interactions. In the meantime I will purchase land to demonstrate a human-integrated wild food forest that will form from the knowledge I gain in biodynamic and permaculture concepts in order to create a healthy space for a biologically diverse ecosystem. My goal is to make this a non-profit organization. The NPO will teach balanced and sustainable ethnobotanical relationships through the production of gourmet wild foods, wild-crafted herbal medicines, edible and esthetic floral arrangements, and functional art made from natural resources. I hope to provide employment, enrichment, Earth-connection, innovation, and environmental and ethnobotanical education to all seeking this wisdom.

t Matthew Wied Sponsored by: Mickman Brothers, Inc. School: University of Wisconsin - river Falls Major: Landscape horticulture, community Planning expected graduation: Spring 2013 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: The experience that initially sparked my interest in horticulture was growing up working on the neighbor’s dairy farm. Spending time on the farm and working outside has instilled in me a love of the great outdoors and an appreciation of the wonderful environment we have been entrusted with. In addition to working at the neighbor’s farm, another factor that significantly influenced my decision to pursue a career within the green industry was through a volunteer 52

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opportunity at camp Daniel, a camp that is currently developing a fully wheel chair accessible campus for people with disabilities in northern Wisconsin. Our family has been a part of camp Daniel the past ten years and has participated in numerous weekend work projects ranging from hanging sheetrock, to building outdoor structures, to assisting in the annual dock installation. One weekend’s experience stood out in particular and had a profound impact in my decision to pursue a career within the green industry. On this particular weekend, I was put in charge of a group of young men, all of whom had various degrees of disabilities. We were responsible for laying out a large truckload of donated trees, shrubs, and perennials according to the campus’ master plan. I remember having a great time working with the guys and the rewarding experience of watching these people take pride in the tasks accomplished. It was neat to see the campus begin to take shape and provide depth and character as empty containers began to stack up and burlap piles began to evolve. That weekend's experience stuck with me as I began considering how I could incorporate it into a lifelong career. I did some research at the local library and began building a list for the various careers pertaining to the green industry that interested me. When looking through a career outlook magazine, I ran across “Landscape architecture” and saw potential for a career that matched many of my interests. My experiences with camp Daniel, in conjunction with my newfound passion for the horticulture industry inspired me to pursue a satisfying career in the green industry where I could match my interests with my desire to help others.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? after graduating next spring with a bachelor degree in Landscape horticulture from the University of Wisconsin- river Falls, I plan on attending graduate school for landscape architecture. Upon completion of school and becoming established within an architectural firm, I would like to open and operate two inter-connected horticultural businesses. The first business would be a self-contracting landscape crew consisting of several ‘able-bodied’ people (with or without disabilities) along with several project managers. Project managers would work alongside the employees to provide steady direction to get the tasks done with precision. The self-contracting crew would be hired by the firm for select projects such as installation of shrubs, trees, perennials, sod, etc. at specific job sites.

The second business would be a greenhouse and nursery stock supply company for the self-contracting crew, as well as a greenhouse that propagates plants for resale to the general public. The greenhouse’s employee salary fund would be generated by the purchases made by the selfcontracting crew, as well as the monies gained from the retail aspect of the business. again, production managers would work closely with employees teaching the proper Matthew Wied continued on page 53

2011-12 Scholarship Winner Profiles Matthew Wied continued from page 52 tips and techniques of successfully raising good, healthy, high quality plants.

My hope for the future is to provide a place where people are given opportunities to learn new skills while working with plants to provide a meaningful career they can take pride in while being able to earn a decent wage. I hope to have an impact in many peoples’ lives while enhancing the environment and positively contributing to the green industry through areas of design, propagation, and more diverse plant selection.

t Kathryn Krause Sponsored by: Robin D. Linder Memorial Scholarship School: University of Wisconsin - river Falls Major: horticulture- Landscape Design option expected graduation: December 2012 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: I grew up working in my family's vegetable garden and sweet corn patch. Once in college at UWrF, I took a class on sustainable landscape design, and just began to appreciate more the environment that plants and the landscape can provide for us. Through more classes, a position at Wood river Garden center, an internship at Sargent's Nursery, and more great hands on opportunities I've been blessed to be a part of… my interest and passion has only grown and grown.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? I would love to become a designer at a well known nursery or landscape company or perhaps at a notable garden or conservatory. however, upkeep, floriculture, and production all interest me as well.

t Lindsay Heggemeyer Sponsored by: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. School: University of Wisconsin - river Falls Major: horticulture expected graduation: Fall 2012

please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: Growing up, summers were spent helping my parents with all sorts of landscaping projects

they had acquired. My mom is an avid gardener and I have always enjoyed helping her design and build her garden. as I grew older I wanted to start designing my own garden spaces and I have achieved a shade garden, rock garden and butterfly garden up until now. I knew since the beginning of high school I wanted to pursue a degree in horticulture. UWrF has secured my decision in majoring in horticulture through the hands on learning experience in our greenhouse to the many wonderful field trips to the various garden center and growers in the nearby area. after beginning my horticulture degree my passion for plants and horticulture has only increased.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? In the future I would love to get a job designing city parks or work with the DNr or MNDOT to assist in designing natural areas and state parks. at some point in my career I would also love to own my own landscape design company someday.

t Camille Benson Sponsored by: MNLA Landscape Professional Advancement Committee School: Dakota county Technical college Major: Landscape horticulture expected graduation: May/June 2013 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: as a child I was surrounded by extended family who had gardens, for both flowers and vegetables. My mother's rambling, sprawling backyard vegetable garden was a place of special delight; I was encouraged to taste things, smell things, break bits off of hollyhocks to make dolls and watch the birds eat elderberries from the bushes. My grandmother, especially, encouraged my love of plants and watching them grow with her love and enjoyment of her own backyard garden. I was encouraged, also, to explore the wild areas around my grandparent's home in southern Minnesota. Standing in the middle of a big group of trees and weeds and flowers has always felt like home. I grew up, but my love of plants and growing things hasn't changed.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? after graduation from DcTc, I would like to continue my education and earn a Bachelor's Degree. I would like to focus more on sustainability and food production, as well as gain knowledge to help me in my puttering experiments in garden pea breeding. afterwords I hope to find a way to balance making a living with community outreach, to give other children the experiences growing up knowing the magic of plants the way I did.

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2011-12 Scholarship Winner Profiles Karina greenwood Sponsored by: Gertens School: Dakota county Technical college Major: Landscape horticulture expected graduation: May 2013 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: My interest in the landscape industry blossomed unexpectedly while working as a grocery cashier twenty-two years ago. The grocery store decided to open a pop-up satellite greenhouse during the summer and I jumped at the opportunity to help man it.

Ever since, my passion was always plants. Working in the garden, designing hardscapes and landscapes, and implementing the designs in my own property is what made me happy, so I decided to leave behind my ďŹ rst career and work towards turning my landscape ambitions into my second profession.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? My aspirations are to have my own business focusing on garden maintenance and low maintenance garden design with an environmentally friendly approach.

My services would include incorporating and promoting organic fertilizing and landscape control measures, xeriscaping designs, rain gardens, and companion planting to minimize any negative impacts on the land and water systems.

t Jesse grothe Sponsored by: Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and Landscape School: Dakota county Technical college Major: landscape/horticulture expected graduation: spring 2013 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: My father owns and operates a landscaping company so I have always been around it. I worked on jobs since I was big enough to pick up a shovel pretty much. It's what I know and what I am good at.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? after graduation I plan on continuing on at the University of Minnesota and gaining a Masters degree in landscape architecture. Out of school I will be working with my father’s company as an architect and innovator and in time hopefully become a partner and eventual owner of aloha Landscaping Inc.

t Charlie gardner Sponsored by: Bachman's, Inc. School: Dakota county Technical college Major: Landscape horticulture expected graduation: Dec. 2011 please explain how you got interested in a green industry area of study: Enjoy working outside, and have a passion for nature.

What are your future plans in the industry after graduation? Start a landscape design build company, focusing on sustainable landscapes that are functional as well as pleasing to the eye.

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The Scoop | PLANT OF THE MONTH

AESCULUS GLABRA-OHIO BUCKEYE

Plant of the Month

By Vickie Pondell, Bailey Nurseries, Inc. ew trees are as iconic as Aesculus glabra or Ohio buckeye, the state tree and symbol of the state of Ohio. This tree is not only native to Ohio, but moist habitats in the southeastern and central United States. Because this tree is native to stream banks, bottomlands, and the forest understory, it thrives in rich, moist soils.

The zone 3-7 hardy grower has the ability to grow in alkaline soils and full sun to partial shade. This rounded, medium sized tree matures with an equal height and spread of 2040’. It is best suited to natural settings and spacious areas to allow for the full crown and course, suspending branches. The bark is ash grey and has a ridged appearance when mature. The small branches are a reddishbrown.

F

The buckeye is especially striking in the spring with its showy flowers of a soft lime green hue borne on 4-7” panicles. One of the growth earliest bloomers, it blossomss on the current season’s growth.

The flowers are most prevalent when the foliage has expanded.

The palmately compound leaves are one of the first to emerge in the spring, age to a dark green, and are 4-7”. In the fall, the frost resistant leaves are one of the first to change color, a reddish brown, and defoliate. The leaves will also prematurely fall in hot, dry conditions. This plant does not have many insect issues. However, it is susceptible to leaf blotch, leaf scorch, and mildew. These diseases are unsightly, but do not diminish the long-term health of the tree.

In autumn, the tree yields large brown fruit capsules with a light spot at the point of attachment that resembles “the eye of the buck.” The buckeye is named for these nuts, a favorite food

for squirrels that is poisonous to livestock and humans. Native Americans utilized buckeyes as food by boiling and leaching the toxin-Aesculin. Folklore considers the buckeyes a good luck

charm. The wood of the buckeye was also widely used in artificial limbs.

This genetically consistent plant is best propagated with stratified seeds and transplants best in early spring or late fall.

Once established in the landscape, the Ohio buckeye is moderately long lived and almost impossible to kill, making this North American Native a great addition to the landscape. ________________________________________________ Vickie Pondell is a member of the MNLA Nursery Committee and can be reached at vickie.pondell@baileynursery.com

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