The Scoop Online - December 2015

Collecting Unemployment Benefits

Also Inside

2016 Northern Green Expo Highlights

Member Profile Planned Giving Board Profiles

TRENDS IN PRODUCTION & DEMAND Strategically analyzing the data

Vol: 38 No: 12 Dec 2015 T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E M I N N E S O TA N U R S E R Y & L A N D S C A P E A S S O C I AT I O N

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Volume 38 No. 12 Dec 2015

CONTENTS 15

54 28

IN THIS ISSUE 8, 48, 53, 60 MNLA’s Highlights at the Northern Green Expo 9

44

15 Villa Lante: Italy’s Greatest Renaissance Garden Hydrological technology, “golden rectangle” proportions, and symbolic meanings comprise one of the elite Italian gardens.   

23 How Does Minnesota Compare to Other States?

Chengyan Yue presents an analysis of Minnesota nursery and greenhouse production firms’ characteristics.  

28 Wasting Away Faith Appelquist warns that pin oaks are highly susceptible to iron chlorosis when planted in high pH soils. 

39 Troubleshooting Wire Circuits Andrew Lindquist writes about the principles of using a voltage-ohm meter to discover shorts, corroded, and damaged wires. 

44 What’s New in Fruit at the U of M? Jim Luby reports on the new people, varieties, information, and challenges for northern fruit growers.   

49 Crash! National Gardening Survey Returns Us to Reality Ian Baldwin scrutinizes the results of the survey and gives you six calls to action based on the trends identified.    Landscape & Hardscape Install & Design  Garden Services & Landscape Management  Garden Centers  Growers: Nursery & Greenhouse  Irrigation & Water Management  Arborists & Tree Services  All

Events

10 From the President Bloom and Grow Forever 12 Member Profile Egg|Plant Urban Farm Supply 21 More Opportunities for MNLA Certification Testing In 2016, testing will occur on all Fridays in February and three Fridays in March.

35 Can Seasonal Employees Collect Unemployment Benefits?

Aileen Conway of Zlimen & McGuiness reviews what you need to know.

54 Customer Experiences Expo speaker Jeff Korhan on how to use social media to differentiate your business.

59 Planned Giving Dale Bachman talks about leaving a legacy of green industry support.

62 MNLA Board Elections & Annual Meeting A profile of all candidates for election to the MNLA Board of Directors.

The Scoop, December 2015, Issue 12, is issued monthly, 12 times per year. All original works, articles or formats published in The Scoop are © Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association, 2015, and may not be used without written permission of MNLA, 1813 Lexington Ave N., Roseville, MN 55113. Subscription price is $99 for one year, which is included with member dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Scoop, MNLA, 1813 Lexington Ave N., Roseville, MN 55113.

Editorial Contributions. You are invited to share your expertise and perspective. Article ideas and manuscripts should, whenever possible, reflect real and specific experiences. When submitting an article, please contact the publisher at jon@mnla.biz or 651-633-4987.

MNLA reserves the right to edit all Scoop content.

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MINNESOTA NURSERY & LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION Successful Businesses Grow Here!

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 • www.NorthernGreenExpo.org

MISSION: The mission of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association is to help members grow successful businesses.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

heidi heiland, mnla-cp, president Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens 612-366-7766 • heidi@BloomOnMN.com

herman roerick, vice-president

Central Landscape Supply 320-252-1601 • hermanr@centrallandscape.com

scott frampton, secretary-treasurer

A Top Notch Equipment ................................................................................... 27 Allstate Peterbilt Group .................................................................................... 58 All Stone Solutions ........................................................................................... 22 Anchor Block Company .................................................................................... 11 Ancom Communication & Technical Center .................................................... 17 Anderson Nurseries, Inc. .................................................................................. 57 Aspen Equipment ............................................................................................. 11 Carlin Horticultural Supplies/ProGreen Plus ..................................................... 57 Central Landscape Supply ................................................................................ 57 Cushman Motor Co. Inc ................................................................................... 36 Edney Distributing Co., Inc. ............................................................................. 17

Landscape Renovations 651-769-0010 • sframpton@landscaperenovations.com

Fury Motors ...................................................................................................... 37

debbie lonnee, mnla-cp, past president

Gardenworld Inc. .............................................................................................. 22

Bailey Nurseries, Inc. 651-768-3375 • debbie.lonnee@baileynursery.com

randy berg, mnla-cp

Berg’s Nursery, Landscape/Garden Center 507-433-2823 • randy@bergsnursery.com

tim malooly, cid, clia, cic

Gertens Wholesale / JRK Seed & Turf Supply .................................................... 2 Glacial Ridge Growers ...................................................................................... 53 GM Fleet and Commercial ................................................................................. 3

Water in Motion 763-559-7771 • timm@watermotion.com

Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies ........................................................ 30

mike mcnamara

Hennepin Technical College ............................................................................. 22

Hoffman & McNamara Nursery & Landscaping 651-437-9463 • mike.mcnamara@hoffmanandmcnamara.com

jeff pilla, mnla-cp

Bachman’s Inc. 612-861-7600 • jpilla@bachmans.com

nick sargent

Hiway Federal Credit Union ............................................................................. 26 Jeff Belzer Chevrolet .................................................................................. 32–33 Kubota Dealers ................................................................................................. 46

Sargent’s Landscape Nursery, Inc. 507-289-0022 • njsargent@sargentsgardens.com

Maguire Agency ............................................................................................... 22

cassie larson, cae

McKay Nursery Co. ........................................................................................... 58

MNLA Executive Director 651-633-4987 • cassie@mnla.biz

Minnesota Propane Association ....................................................................... 61

STAFF DIRECTORY

Out Back Nursery ............................................................................................. 38

executive director:

Cassie Larson, CAE • cassie@mnla.biz

membership director & trade show manager:

Mary Dunn, CEM • mary@mnla.biz communications dir.: Jon Horsman, CAE • jon@mnla.biz education/cert manager: Susan Flynn • susan@mnla.biz

Plaisted Companies ............................................................................................ 7 RDO Equipment Co. ........................................................................................ 60 Resultants for Business, Inc. (RFB) .................................................................... 36

legislative affairs manager: Tim Power • tim@mnla.biz regulatory affairs manager: Jim Calkins • jim@mnla.biz administrative asst: Gayle Anderson • gayle@mnla.biz accountant: Kris Peterson • kris@mnla.biz foundation program coordinator:

Rock Hard Landscape Supply division of Brian’s Lawn & Landscaping, Inc. .... 58

advertising sales: 952-934-2891 / 763-295-5420

United Label & Sales ........................................................................................ 57

Paulette Sorenson • paulette@mnla.biz

Faith Jensen, Advertising Rep • faith@pierreproductions.com Betsy Pierre, Advertising Mgr • betsy@pierreproductions.com legislative affairs consultant: Doug Carnival

6

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Campfire Schedules Lakeshore Campfire Wednesday

• 11:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Landscape Contractor/Hardscape Contractor Networking Group Meeting

• 12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. Nursery Networking Group Meeting • 1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Five Top Plant Diseases/Treatments with Michelle Grabowski, University of Minnesota

• 1:45 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Professional Gardening Networking Group Meeting with special guest Roy Diblik

• 2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. Tool Update/Walkabout with Bill Gardocki, Interstate Landscape Inc.

• 4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Small Engine Maintenance Demo with Steve Hagen, Midwest Stihl, Inc.

TLY IFFEREN LEARNpoD ’s po Ex d, an m pular de

Back by show floor es on the trade “campfire” spac ing and learning…but ther are hubs for ga ral session. ur typical gene yo t no ’re ey th

• 12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Arborist/Tree Care Networking Group Meeting • 1:15 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Top Ten Perennials for Northern Landscapes with Mike Heger, Ambergate Horticultural Consulting • 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Turfgrass Identification with Matt Cavanaugh, University of Minnesota • 3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Introduction to Plant Elements of Design V2.0 with Julie Weisenhorn, University of Minnesota Extension • 3:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. Collecting as a Subcontractor with Bryan Zlimen, Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC Friday

Thursday

• 10:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Pruning Demonstration with Ed Gilman, University of Florida • 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Hardscape Restoration with Rob Johnson, The Paver Doctor • 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Garden Center Networking Group Meeting with special guest Jeff Korhan, Media First Marketing

• 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Flower Grower Networking Group Meeting with special guest Lloyd Traven, Peace Tree Farm • 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Calibration Demonstration with Fred Whitford, Purdue University • 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. MNLA Foundation Research Update: Determination of Residue in Flowers and Leaves from imidacloprid, dinotefuran, and pymetrozine use in GH Pots with Vera Krischik, University of Minnesota

Backyard Campfire

Generously supported by:

• 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Spotlight on Mulches with Gertens Wholesale • 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. MTGF Speaker Spotlight with Rick Latin, Purdue University • 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. MTGF Speaker Spotlight with Steve Keeley, Kansas State University • 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. MTGF Speaker Spotlight with Josh Friell, The Toro Company • 1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Concrete Casting and Staining Demonstration with Chris Becker, Anchor Wall Systems • 12:45 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. Invasive Species/Noxious Weed Status Update with Tim Power and Jim Calkins, MNLA • 2:45 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. OSHA, Does that include me? with Lee Craig, MNOSHA • 1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Biodiesel and Your Diesel Engine with Twin Cities Clean Cities Coalition and Hoon Ge, MEG Corp. • 3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. MNLA Certification Exam: Test Yourself! with MNLA Certification Task Team • 2:15 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. MTGF Speaker Spotlight with Micah Woods, Asian Turfgrass Center • 4:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. LD Networking Group Meeting with special guest Rebecca Cole, Rebecca Cole GROW • 3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. MNLA Foundation Research Update: University of Minnesota Cultivar Trials of Annual Bedding Friday Plants with Steve Poppe, University of Minnesota-Morris • 10:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. MTGF Speaker Spotlight with Jim Thursday Skorulski, USGA • 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Labeling Laws Regarding Pollinators • 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Marketing Basics with Joel Spies, & Hardiness Q&A with MDA Rainbow Companies • 10:45 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Traditional Garden Center • 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. MTGF Speaker Spotlight with Doug Alternatives Q&A with Garden Center Panel Soldat, University of Wisconsin

Wednesday

DOT Vehicle Inspection Back of 1700 Aisle

• Wednesday, 11:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

• Thursday, 3:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.

• Friday, 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

DISCLAIMER: Although every reasonable effort is made to provide the speakers, topics, and sessions listed, some changes or substitutions may occur. Speakers and sessions are subject to cancellation or change up to and including the day the session(s) are scheduled to be held. Changes or cancellations are made at the discretion of MNLA/MTGF and may be done without notifying attendees. If sessions are changed or cancelled no refunds should be expected. Submission of the registration form acknowledges acceptance of this provision.

➾ C ALE N DAR

2015 MNLA seminars generously supported by John Deere Landscapes

MNLA Event

Advanced registration required for all Super Tuesday classes.

Registration deadline: January 6, 2016.

MNLA Event

JAN12

MNLA Event

JAN12 ➾

Design Track: Niche Landscape Design

➾

Minneapolis Conv Center MNLA.biz This class will provide information on a variety of niche landscape design ideas, including sessions on: therapeutic gardens, hell strip gardening, no-mow lawns, small space urban design, “know maintenance” design, and rain gardens.

Landscape Lighting Design and Advanced Control Applications (PLT Relicensure) DOLI course code #20150501

Minneapolis Conv Center MNLA.biz This class provides a total of eight hours of continuing education credits for the Power Limited Technician License, with material orientated specifically towards the landscape lighting specialist.

JAN12 ➾

KEY:

Event Education ➾

Maximizing the value of trees means choosing and caring for them correctly. In this workshop you will gain a better understanding of how to do that in Minnesota’s climate. Presenters will also provide the latest information on tree pest issues, including Emerald Ash Borer and Oak Wilt.

CEO SYMPOSIUM: The Transformative CEO MNLA.biz Networking reception, dinner, and presentation

by Jeffrey Scott, Jeffrey Scott Consulting, Inc. This is an opportunity for CEO-level members to connect before Expo.

This year’s presenter, Jeffrey Scott, will discuss behaviors that CEO’s and managers need to power their companies to greatness. Discover the common traps you need to avoid, and how to create consistent success by adopting these transformative behaviors.

MNLA Event

Understanding Tree Needs and Problems to Maximize Value Minneapolis Conv Center MTGF.org

JAN12

➾

JAN 13–15 NORTHERN GREEN EXPO Minneapolis Convention Center Northerngreenexpo.org Attend the premier event for green industry professionals in the northern region.

Advanced registration available until January 5.

All information on these and other industry events are online at MNLA.biz. december 15

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➾ F R OM THE PRESIDEN T

Bloom and Grow Forever With this, my last “From the President” Scoop article, I would like to thank the MNLA Board of Directors and members for their unwavering support.

Heidi Heiland

Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens

i have learned so much about myself professionally and personally over the last ten years on this Board, especially in the last two years as your President. I respect each one of you and feel blessed to have journeyed this way together. I appreciate your challenging me to become a resilient leader, your encouragement in times of deliberation and your wisdom of how to better our association. The MNLA is in great hands, not only with our seasoned Board of Directors but also with our eager Executive Director, Cassie Larson, and her staff. I can’t wait to see how the MNLA continues to lead our regional green industry into the future!

To our over 1,200 member firms, your faith in me to bring my best efforts forward has been humbling and a pleasure. I hope I have done this position justice in your eyes. We all have varied skills and our own legacy to leave, whether it is on the Board, at the Committee level or within our own company. I encourage us all to become involved and stay involved in our association to ensure positive growth. Aligning with the MNLA has easily been one of the best endeavors of my career.

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I believe my platform of building bridges (and having fun) was essential to gaining additional trust, thought partners and vision, as we evolve into our future.

With our newly renovated headquarters in Roseville, a revamped and nimble governance model that will entice more member participation, along with a vibrant and evolving Expo, the MNLA is poised to take our association to the next level!

Auf Wiedersehen is German for goodbye, literally meaning “until we see again.” Even though I am completing my term as your President, you will most definitely see me again as I plan to remain active and involved for years to come. I encourage you to do the same for our mutual and individual benefit. I am confident we all are looking forward to seeing each other again at Expo, which is just around the corner.

Bloom and grow forever MNLA! Auf Wiedersehen, Heidi MNLA PRESIDENT HEIDI HEILAND welcomes your feedback at 612.366.7766 or Heidi@bloomonmn.com

➾ ME MBER PROFILE

MEMBER PROFILE EGG|PLANT UR B AN FAR M SUPPLY Katie Mills Giorgio

Photos courtesy of Egg|Plant Urban Farm Supply

C O M PAN Y SN APSH O T

Company Name: Egg|Plant Urban Farm Supply Owner: Audrey Matson and Robert Lies Date Company started: 2010 Location: St. Paul, MN Number of Employees in Peak Season: 6 Areas Served: Twin Cities Metro Member Category: Retail Nursery / Garden Center Websites: http://eggplantsupply.com

In the heart of bustling St. Paul, you’ll find Egg|Plant Urban Farm Supply, a quaint retail garden center dedicated to keeping people in touch with the Midwest’s agricultural roots and pioneering spirit.

OWNERS AUDREY MATSON AND ROBERT LIES work closely with their team including General Manager Leslie Johnson, to make it possible for urbanites to pick up all the necessary supplies, like baby chicks, for creating and keeping up a backyard homestead.

Since opening their doors in 2010, the shop has grown to selling seeds, plants, soils and tools for small-scale urban kitchen gardens.

They offer backyard chicken-keeping supplies, canning and preserving materials, fertilizers and pest control, all with an organic and sustainable focus.

Matson, who serves as President/CEO of the company, completed her Master’s of Agriculture in Horticulture degree at the University of Minnesota the same year Egg|Plant opened. “I presented my business plan (for Egg|Plant Urban Farm Supply) as my final project,” she said, noting that during that same year she also qualified as an MNLA Certified Professional in Garden Center Management.

Thus far, it’s a business plan turned business that seems to be growing fruitfully.

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I enjoy creating a place that people like to come to, and providing a staff and product supply that helps people achieve their own goals and learn new skills that enhance their lives.

Above: General Manager Leslie Johnson, with co-owners Bob Lies and Audrey Matson, on a staff outing to Bang Brewing.

Right: Audrey and Leslie have some fun just outside the store.

Far Right: Bob and Audrey celebrating on Egg|Plant’s five-year anniversary.

Q. Audrey, thank you for making time to talk with The Scoop. So tell us all about Egg|Plant Urban Farm Supply.

A. Egg|Plant is primarily a garden center that offers seeds, plants, tools and supplies for organic backyard and home food gardening. Along with a wide array of garden center products, we add in homesteading supplies like chicken feed, cheese-making kits, canning jars, and fermenting crocks. We select our products with an eye for their practical use as well as their quality and beauty. Probably the most fun thing we sell is day-old baby chicks weekly from February to July.

Q. Baby chicks…what fun! Are you also able to offer information for customers looking to get started with chicken keeping?

A. Yes. We actually offer classes on many of the products we sell. Our staff is experienced and able to answer most questions customers have about how to get started with organic gardening, chicken-keeping, food preservation, and cheese making.

Q. What has been the key to success so far for Egg|Plant Urban Farm Supply?

A. We listen to our customers and respond to what they are looking for.

We are active on social media — Facebook, Twitter and Instagram — and are able to get a lot of interactive customer feedback that way.

Q. What do you enjoy most about what you do?

A. I enjoy creating a place that people like to come to, and providing a staff and product supply that helps people achieve their own goals and learn new skills that enhance their lives. We love to hear about our customers’ projects and ideas. And we have a lot of fun finding new products and sharing them in the store.

Q. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned since starting your business?

A. Your business might change in ways you did not expect. A lot of products have been added because of customer requests or comments. Also, it’s very important to have fun with your employees and customers every day.

we learn about there. Networking with other MNLA members is always informative and connects us to the broader community. Someday we hope to attend the MNLA Foundation Shootout, once we have practiced up enough!

Q. Are there other community events you’ve gotten involved with that you enjoy?

A. The most fun we have had out in the community is two years at the Minnesota State Fair demonstrating backyard chicken-keeping at chicken coops we set up and displayed at the Eco-Experience Building. We regularly participate in other neighborhood events, often bringing our own chickens or providing activities like making seed bombs for kids. We also organize the free, self-guided Twin Cities Chicken Coop Tour every year in September.

Q. How has being an MNLA member helped your business?

INTERESTED IN BEING PROFILED IN THE SCOOP?

A. We have been to every Green Expo since we opened our business and appreciate the information and products

Our writer is always looking for a good story. Email jon@mnla.biz and we’ll discuss the next steps.

december 15

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You never know when a heavy snowfall will require an early morning and fast action.

That’s why Tri-State Bobcat offers winter-ready machines and the widest selection of snow removal attachments in the business.

We also rent all of the machines and attachments that we sell. We rent by the day, week or month and stock a huge inventory.

Authorized Bobcat Dealers

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1200 E. Highway 13 Burnsville, MN 55337

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NEW LOCATION OPEN 588 Outpost Circle Hudson, WI 54016

715-531-0801

VILLA LANTE:

ITALY’S GREATEST RENAISSANCE GARDEN Dr. Jon Bryan Burley, FASLA and Eric Kopinski | Michigan State University Originally published in The Michigan Landscape magazine, a bimonthly publication of the Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association (mnla.org).

V

Figure 1. An overview of the lower terrace and main entrance gate of Villa Lante, looking north. The gate is usually closed and the entrance is at the left side in the image (© 2003 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

Introduction

Italian gardens are of great interest to many people from around the world. The gardens are known for their refined detail, intimate size, and beautiful settings. Garden designers may wish to emulate some of the intriguing properties of Italian gardens for settings in Minnesota.

One of the great gardens (Figure 1) in Italy is Villa Lante (Newton 1971). It may actually be Italy’s greatest garden because it contains numerous intellectual characteristics that are special and provide insight into possibly creating an Italian garden for your clients in Minnesota.

While Italian gardens are considered highly influential, in some respects they often remain a mystery. In the 1880s through the 1920s they were poorly understood or described, as illustrated by historical books concerning landscape gardens written by Mangin, (1886) and Gothien (1928).

illa Lante, as one of the great Italian Renaissance gardens, is one of the more difficult to visit. Visitors who do not have a car need to ride a commuter train for two hours to the north of Rome, walk about one kilometer, wait for the bus, ride five kilometers to Bagnaia (an old Etruscan town), and then walk up-hill a short distance to enter the garden, and reverse the trip to get back to Rome. The garden is closed on Mondays, so visitors need to plan ahead. In contrast, to the east of Rome, Villa d’Esté, another great Italian garden, is relatively simple to access, visited by hundreds of people daily.

One of the great secrets to making an Italian garden is affiliated with the “golden rectangle.” The “golden rectangle” was popularized with Lucia Pacioli’s publication of Divina Proportione in 1509. Its proportions are 1 to (1/2 + √5/2) or 1 to 1.618. These proportions are thought to be ideal, similar to ratios of 5:8 and 8:13. A site of any size or shape can be easily divided into “golden rectangles” covering the entire area. Essentially, the extensive Boboli Gardens in Florence, Italy follow this basic design approach. Even though the land is an elongated shape with acute angles, scribing the site with a series of “golden rectangles” facilitates in translating the garden into an Italianesque environment. Both Villa d’Esté and Villa Lante contain representations and portions of this general “golden rectangle” patterning. The quest to understand proportion, pattern, and relatedness continues in modern times too. Doczi’s (1981) The Power of Limits: Proportional Harmonies in Nature, Art & Architecture is an informative presentation illustrating how biological shapes, music, and human artifacts often have related patterns and proportioning — a dinergy. Gyorgy Doczi (1909–1995) was an architect and graphic designer from Seattle, Washington. In addition, Kepes december 15

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➾ V ILLA LAN TE

The bilateral symmetry, the use of water underlying a concept, and the placement of evergreens, along with the general approach of employing the “golden rectangle” have specific intentions.

Figure 2. An aerial view of the Villa Lante site and the town of Bagnaia, with north to the bottom, (© 2009 Google Earth all rights reserved, used by permission; © 2013 Digital Globe all rights reserved, used by permission) with annotation (© 2013 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

Figure 3. An image of one of the three flood sources at the top of Villa Lante, supplying the source of water for the garden (© 2005 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

(1966) edited a book titled Module, Proportion, Symmetry, Rhythm along with numerous visual studies which influenced a generation of modern designers such as the famous landscape architect Kevin Lynch (1918–1984). Gyorgy Kepes (1906–2001) was a Hungarian born artist, designer, and art theorist who taught at MIT and the Illinois Institute of Design. He was typical of many great intellects examining the relationships in patterns dating back to include Palladio’s 16

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1570 Four Books of Architecture (1965) and Vitruvius’ (Marcus Vitruvius Pollio) Ten Books of Architecture (2001) first published in the first century B.C. The design of Villa Lante represents the knowledge known about design and proportion during the time period of the late 1500s and is often considered quite relevant to the design of contemporary environments.

The creation of the garden at Villa Lante was during the later part of the Italian Renaissance (late 14th century to the 16th century).

The concept of the Renaissance was an invention by the painter and art historian Giorgia Vasari (1511–1574). He was attempting to explain a resurgence in quality architecture and arts, not witnessed in Europe since before the fall of the Roman Empire. He wrote a book (1550) and a second edition (1568) about his thoughts concerning this subject titled: Lives of the Most Excellent Italian Painters, Sculptors, and Architects, from Cimabue to Our Times also known as The Lives of the Great Architects, Painters, and Sculptors of Italy. Villa Lante is considered a design belonging to this time period; although, Vasari did not discuss landscape design as an art. In many respects the time before the Italian Renaissance was not devoid of intellectual innovation as illustrated in the great gardens of Spain, environmental advances in Turkey, and abbeys and chateaus of France, Switzerland, England, and Ireland. During Europe’s dark ages, China was in its glorious Tang and Song dynasties, where creating a garden was considered an art. Oil painting (using poppyseed oil or walnut oil) may have came to Italy from its reintroduction/rediscovery in the Netherlands or the explorations of Venetian traders with contacts through to Afghanistan and possibly originally from China and India. The history of oil painting origins and technology transfer has yet to be definitively explored and answered. Before the transfer of this technology, Europeans usually painted in plaster (frescos), used tempera paints (from egg yolks) or made mosaics from clay and glass. According to Giorgia Vasari, Italy entered a Renaissance, a period of high quality artistic endeavours, where oil painting was now in widespread use and the other fine arts experienced exceptional development, including the then unrecognized art of garden/ landscape design.

Villa Lante

Villa Lante is located in the general area known as Mont Sant’ Angelo (Figure 2). This location was a 62 acre hunting park created by Cardinal Raffaele Riario in 1514 (Sicilano 2005). Another important aspect for the area is related to the infrastructure activities of Cardinal Niccolo Ridolfi (the Bishop of Viterbo) who had an aqueduct built from some springs to the town of Bagnaia in 1549.

Cardinal Gianfrencesco Gambara is known as the person who initiated work on a villa and garden within the hunting park (Sicilano 2005). Thus, Cardinal Gambara is credited with being the owner of

the gardens when the essentials of the design were established (Gothien 1928). The design may have been possibly created for Cardinal Gambara by Vignola, as Vignola was designing other well known sites in the general area. However, there is no hard evidence that Vignola designed Villa Lante.

Giacomo (Jacopo) Barozzi da Vignola (1507–1573) was a pupil of the great Michangelo. It is known that Tommaso Ghinucci (from Sienna) performed the site hydraulics and engineering for the site.

Completed in 1578, the site was chosen as a refuge from the heat and foul smells of Rome in the summertime, with its northfacing slope being cooler than a southfacing slope. Water supplied to the area also added to the cooling effects.

To appreciate the design, it is helpful to understand the underlying conceptual ideas that guided the form of the garden.

Studying design concepts at various gardens including Villa Lante, Dr. Luis Loures (a professor in Portugal) and Dr. Burley (2009) state about Villa Lante: First, the design concept is bilaterally symmetrical, an important feature relevant to Christians who believed that God’s greatest creation, “man” was bilaterally symmetrical, and so the design of Villa Lante represented this approach. Second, the design is set on a hill, facilitating the telling of the story of the “Flood” from the time of Noah’s Ark (at the top) to the spread of God’s word to the four corners of the world… Third, the design is created with primarily evergreen vegetation, allowing one to experience the site at any time of the year, and still enjoy a similar experience. These three concepts are weaved together.

They indicate that the design forms have a strong reason for their arrangement.

The bilateral symmetry, the use of water underlying a concept, and the placement of evergreens, along with the general approach of employing the “golden rectangle” have specific intentions. The evergreen garden implies that God’s word is steadfast and remains the same 365 days a year. These physical features are often copied but with little understanding of the intentions. The

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➾ V ILLA LAN TE

Figure 4. The dolphin fountain at Villa Lante (© 2005 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

Figure 5. A photograph of the water chain in Villa Lante (© 2003 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

Figure 6. The fountain of the giants at Villa Lante (© 2005 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

Figure 7. The water table at Villa Lante (© 2003 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

Figure 8. The fountain of the lamps at Villa Lante (© 2005 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

Figure 9. The central fountain on the lower terrace (© 2003 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

geometry has a religious meaning. The water tells a conceptual story, the choice of plant material relate to the concept, and the size of the garden’s divisions relate to the general concept of beauty. Loures and Burley (2009) also note: In addition, Cardinal Gambara even had a concept for himself, or at least applied to him. He was portrayed by the red crayfish, as his emblem, which fit nicely with the color of a Cardinal (red). The red crayfish also fit well with the design of flowing water through the site, as the emblem of the crayfish can be found on stonework…

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Another feature of the garden is associated with Ovid’s Metamorphoses. Ovid was a Roman poet who wrote a 15 volume poem, completing it in 8 AD. The poem describes the history of Rome through a series of stories (250 mythology legends from Rome’s beginnings to the time of Julius Caesar). Villa Lante also reflects the passage of time from the “Golden Age,” leading from one terrace to another — featuring changes in human development, culture, and knowledge — and arriving at the lower terrace. The lower terrace was inspired by the rectangular enclosed space of the Belvedere Garden at the Vatican, designed by Danato Bromante in 1506. Bromante’s work was later bisected by additional cross-cutting buildings. However, at

Villa Lante the buildings (casinos) are square structures in bilateral formation to the sides of the central axis. The casinos were built by Cardinal Gambara in 1566 (west casino) and by Cardinal Alessandro Montalto after 1587 (east casino). In 1587, the site was granted to Cardinal Frederic Comaro by the Pope (Sicilano 2005).

At the top terrace the Fountain of the Flood or Grotto of the Deluge spews water to initiate the deluge (Figure 3). Houses of the Muses with prison bars of Saint Lawrence, Patron Saint of Viterbo (Chelariu undated) are adjacent to the fountain. The Loggia of the Muses allegorically allude to the peaks of Mount Parnassus emerging from the

The garden at Villa Lante is a combination of careful site selection, hydrological technology, “golden rectangle” proportions (although not exclusively), and conceptual/symbolic meanings; comprising one of the top and elite Italian gardens.

Waters of the Deluge; while the muses are the goddesses of inspiration for literature, science, and the arts. The next water feature is the Fountain of the Dolphins. The Fountain of the Dolphins used to have a structure — a wooden kiosk — over it (Chelariu undated). It has been suggested that the fountains at Villa Lante may contain some allegorical meaning such as the four elements of natures — air, water, earth, and fire. The Fountain of the Dolphins may represent water (Figure 4). Below the Fountain of the Dolphins is the Water Chain — Catena de Aqua, (Figure 5) connecting water to a lower terrace and leading to Fountains of the Giants. Two giants (Figure 6) represent the Arno River (Florence, Medici Family, arts, industry) and Tiber River (Rome, papacy and religion). This fountain possibly represents the Earth and fresh water (Chelariu undated). The fountain is symbolic, portraying that Italy, Florence and Rome contain people, technology, and philosophy to endure and rule. From beyond the Fountain of the Giants, there is the Cardinal’s Table, a table with water down the center for al fresco dining (Figure 7).

Below the table is the Fountain of the Lights with 70 lamps (Figure 8), possibly representing fire (Chelariu undated). At the bottom is the Fountain of the Moors, possibly representing air, with representations of the Montalto family — lions, mountains, and pears crowned by a star (Figure 9). The center representations are attributed to Taddeo Landini (Chelariu undated), being contained in a circular island. It has been suggested that the circular island of the lower terraces may be inspired from Hadrian’s Maritime Theatre at Tivoli (a round stage surrounded by water), near Villa D’ Esté and also by Isolette at Boboli in Florence. The garden is embellished with surprise water features and other adjacent grottoes.

In 1656, the villa was owned by the Lante Della Rovere family (Sicilano 2005), which gave Villa Lante its name (Gothien 1928).

Some aspects of the garden have changed over time (Masson 1966).

In 1953, the site was purchased by the Soceita Villa Lante, with the intentions of restoring the villa and gardens (Sicilano 2005).

The site became open to the public in 1973, while restoration

Figure 10. A view of Villa Lante’s main axis from the front gate to the deluge in the distance, as observed in early May 2012 (© 2012 Eric Kopinski, all rights reserved, used by permission).

Figure 11. The crayfish in the lower terrace, the symbol of Cardinal Gambara. The photograph was taken during restoration on the lower terrace (© 2005 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

Figure 12. A photograph of one of the boats carrying a missionary to one of the four corners of the world. The photograph was taken during restoration on the lower terrace (© 2005 Jon Bryan Burley, all rights reserved, used by permission).

and conservation continues by the Environment and Architecture Property Service of the Region of Lazio (Sicilano 2005). The Renaissance character of the adjacent large stroll garden were almost lost (Gothien 1928), as many gardens from this time period were transferred into English landscape school gardens. While needing some restoration, it is fortunate that the character of the Renaissance stroll garden remains intact. This stroll garden is adjacent to the formal garden and is supposed to be the residing area for the muses and contains selected sculpture. The fountain of Pegasus is adjacent to the main central garden. In Greek mythology, Pegasus is a friend of the muses.

Closing Statements

The garden at Villa Lante is a combination of careful site selection, hydrological technology, “golden rectangle” proportions (although december 15

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➾ V ILLA LAN TE

not exclusively), and conceptual/symbolic meanings; comprising one of the top and elite Italian gardens (Figure 10). The design of this garden illustrates how an environment can contain numerous meanings. Gardens across the Midwest have the potential to be equally composed of conceptual ideas that add to the intellectual content of the environment. Many designers in Minnesota are trained to create gardens with conceptual content, metaphors, and allegory and are ready to make such environments for their clients.

Italian gardens are much more than simple, relatively small, formally-geometrical environments. The shapes and the forms have deep meaning and intellectual content (Figures 11 and 12).

Revisited. WSEAS Transactions on Environment and Development, 5(1):55- 64.

Mangin, A. 1886. Histoire Des Jardins Anciens et Modernes. Alfred Mame et Fils, Editeurs, Tours, France.

Masson, G. 1966. Italian Villas and Palaces. New York: Harry N. Abrams, Inc., Publishers.

Newton, N.T. 1971. Design on the Land: the Development of Landscape Architecture.

Cambridge: Belknap Press.

Sicilano, P.C. 2005. Landscape Interpretations: history, Techniques & Design Inspiration. Thomson: Delmar Learning.

Pacioli, L. 1509. De Divina Proportione. Venice: Paganinus de Paganinus.

Palladio, A. 1965. The Four Books of Architecture. Dover Architecture.

Bibliography Chelariu, E. undated. A view of the gardens of Villa Lante di Bagnaia, Italy.

Krajobrazna Architektura. 44th Croationa & 4th International Symposium on Agriculture: 776-780

Vasari, G. 1568. Lives of the Most Excellent Italian Painters, Sculptors, and Architects, from Cimabue to Our Times (Le Vite de’ più eccellenti pittori, scultori, e architettori da Cimabue insino a’ tempi nostri).

Second edition.

Doczi, G. 1981. The Power of Limits: Proportional Harmonies in Nature, Art & Architecture. Shambhala Publications, Inc.

Vitruvius (Marcus Vitruvius Pollio). 2001. Rowland, I.D., and T.N. Howe (eds.) Vitruvius: the Ten Books of Architecture. Cambridge University Press.

Gothien, M.L. (translated from German by Archer-hind). 1928. A History of Garden Art: Volume 1. Wright, W.P. (ed.), J.M. Dent and Sons Limited London, UK.

ERIC KOPINSKI holds

Kepes, G. 1966. Module, Proportion, Symmetry, and Rhythm. Braziller.

Loures, L. and J.B. Burley. 2009. Conceptual Precedent: Seven Historic Sites

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a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Landscape Architecture and a Master of Arts (M.A.), Environmental Design, Rain Gardens, from Michigan State University (MSU). Eric visited Villa Lante in 2012. Dr. Burley, FASLA is an associate professor of landscape architecture in the School of Planning, Design, and Construction at MSU. He visited Villa Lante in 2003, 2005 and 2012.

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Prove what you know.

MNLA CERTIFICATION SAME VALUE IN A NEW FORMAT When and where are the 2016 exams?

When & Where?

Why does it benefit me in my career?

Why?

When: This year, as a convenience to you, testing will occur on all Fridays in February and three Fridays in March.

February 5, 12, 19, 26 | March 4, 11, 18 Where: Testing will take place at the MNLA office in Roseville.

Please note, only seven seats are available for each test date. Please apply early!

Visit www.MNLA.biz for information.

Become a Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association Certified Professional.

Who is eligible?

Who?

You are eligible to register for the exam if you meet the following requirements: • Have either two years of study in an accredited post-secondary nursery and/ or landscape program that includes a structured internship, OR • A minimum of 2,000 hours in nursery or landscape-related employment.

A signature of an educational advisor or work supervisor is required on the exam registration form to verify completion of the prerequisite.

What’s new?

• Identifies you as a professional.

• Gives you credentials and proves your qualifications.

• Provides you instant credibility with your clients and employers.

• Contributes to increased opportunities for advancement with many employers.

• Demonstrates your commitment to your profession.

• Distinguishes you from the competition.

• Qualifies you to do expert work and give advice.

Become MNLA-certified and advance your career!

Why does it benefit MNLA member companies?

MNLA member businesses that employ certified professionals enhance their professional image, increase customer recognition and respect, provide a consumer marketing tool, and offer an additional tool for employee motivation, evaluation, and advancement.

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The exam is now given in an electronic format with immediate results and integrated photos and videos. It is still a two-part exam: you must pass a Basic Knowledge Exam and a specialty of your choosing (Landscape, Garden Center or Grower) to become MNLA Certified. To maintain certification status, all individuals must compile at least 18 continuing education points every three years.

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➾ S E CT I O N TITLE

HOW DOES MINNESOTA COMPARE?

AN ANALYSIS OF MINNESOTA NURSERY AND GREENHOUSE PRODUCTION FIRMS’ CHARACTERISTICS Chengyan Yue, Associate Professor | Department of Horticultural Science and Department of Applied Economics,

Bachman Endowed Chair in Horticultural Marketing, University of Minnesota

Shuoli Zhao, Ph.D student | Department of Applied Economics, University of Minnesota Alan Hodges, Professor | Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Florida

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➾ NU RS ERY & GREEN H O USE PR O DUC TI O N

Table 1. Average number of permanent and temporary employees per firm in Minnesota, the Midwest region and the United States Minnesota

Midwest

United States

Permanent employees

14.7

8.3

9.6

Temporary employees

25.6

14.8

8.9

T

he nursery and greenhouse industry makes significant contributions to the local and state economy of Minnesota. The industry is one of the most important segments in the sales of horticultural products.

Most of the businesses are family-owned.

The industry plays an important role in improving consumers’ outdoor living environment and sense of well-being. The industry was negatively affected by the decreased demand for landscape plants due to significantly reduced new home sales during the 2007–2009 recession, but it has recovered rapidly in recent years. Due to the differences in climate and business environment, firms in the Minnesota nursery and greenhouse industry differ from those in other states and regions in terms of business characteristics, production and marketing practices. This study aims to shed some light on the characteristics of a Minnesota firm in relation to those of the regional (Midwest) and national industry.

The Method and Findings

Figure 1. Percentages of respondent firms by annual sales category

Figure 2. Percentage of Sales by Plant Type

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A survey of the U.S. nursery and greenhouse industry is conducted every five years by the Green Industry Research Consortium, a Multi-state Research Project of the Southern Region’s Agricultural Experiment Stations (S-1051). The most recent national survey was conducted in 2014 and it reflects the firms’ practices in 2013. In total, 48 Minnesota firms, 461 Midwest firms, and 2,657 U.S. firms completed the survey.

Firm Size. The average number of employees of Minnesota respondents was 14.7 permanent employees and 25.6 temporary employees, which were higher than the regional and national averages (Table 1).

The majority of the Minnesota respondents (69.8%) had annual sales less than $0.25 million, 18.6% had annual sales between $0.25 million and $0.99 million, 7% were between $1 million and $4.9 million, 2.3% were between $10 million and $19.9 million, 2.3% were between $50 million and $100 million and 4.7% were above $100 million. Compared to the regional and national averages, more Minnesota firms were in the categories of less than 0.25 million, $0.25 million to $0.99 million, $10 to $19.9 million, and $50 million to $100 million (Figure 1).

Sales by plant type and product form. A significantly higher percentage of

Minnesota firms’ sales were for deciduous shrubs (31.2%) compared to the regional average (17.7%) and national average (7.3%). Similarly, Minnesota firms’ sales for deciduous shade and flowering trees were 23.2%, compared to 16.3% of Midwest firms and 9% of U.S. firms (Figure 2).

Minnesota firms also grew more narrowleaved evergreen shrubs, fruit trees, roses and propagated materials, but produced fewer bedding plants-flowering annuals, herbaceous perennials, bedding plants, and evergreen trees. Additionally, Minnesota firms grew a significantly lower percentage of native plants compared to national and regional levels. In terms of product form (Figure 3), containerized plants comprised 60% of Minnesota nursery firms’ sales in 2013, which is lower than the regional level (76%) and national level (73%).

This difference corresponds to the lower production of bedding plants, roses, herbaceous perennials and other plants that are primarily grown in containers. On the other hand, significantly more Minnesota sales were from bare-root plants.

Takeaways

The newest national nursery survey showed differences in Minnesota nursery firms compared to those in the Midwest and the United States at large: While the average sales per firm are similar, the average number of employees per firm is significantly higher in Minnesota compared to those in Midwest and the United States, indicating Minnesota firms need more seasonal and temporary laborers with reduced business activities during the relatively long and cold winters.

Given the wide variety of weather conditions, along with abundant water and soil resources, the Minnesota nursery and greenhouse industry is characterized by its high sales in deciduous shrubs and shade and flowering trees, and products in form of bare-root rather than containerized products.

Those findings are consistent with the reported factors that impact the geographic expansion of businesses. Minnesota firms care more about weather uncertainty, ability

Figure 3. Percentage of Sales by Product Form

While the average sales per firm are similar, the average number of employees per firm is significantly higher in Minnesota compared to those in Midwest and the United States, indicating Minnesota firms need more seasonal and temporary laborers with reduced business activities during the relatively long and cold winters.

Figure 4. Factors Affecting Geographic Expansion of the Business (4=High impact, 1=Low impact)

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➾ N U RS E RY & G RE E N H O U S E PR O DU CT IO N

Growing Your Business is Our Priority

In future articles we will also be comparing Minnesota’s irrigation, IPM, and marketing practices with the Midwest and the entire U.S.

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to hire competent employees, and market demand, while worrying less about land and water supply (Figure 4). Therefore, decreasing the influence of weather, identifying regional/national market demand, recruiting competent employees, and increasing production efficiency are critical for Minnesota nursery and greenhouse firms.

In future articles we will also be comparing Minnesota’s irrigation, IPM, and marketing practices with the Midwest and the entire U.S.

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CHENGYAN YUE holds the Todd and Barbara Bachman Endowed Chair in Horticultural Marketing, Associate Professor at the Department of Horticultural Science and Department of Applied Economics at University of Minnesota. By better understanding consumers’ and other stakeholders’ preferences, Dr. Yue’s research provides guidance and implications for marketing horticultural products in strategic ways, which help increase the products’ success in the marketplace. Photo credit: David Hansen.

➾ P I N OAKS

WASTING AWAY

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Faith Appelquist | Tree Quality LLC

Pin oaks should come with warning labels: “Do not plant this tree in crappy post construction soils. Doing so will cause injury and death.�

Left: Three pin oaks with severe chlorosis at a retail store in 2013.

Inset: The same trees in 2015. Dead, declining trees can be an eyesore for shoppers.

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Did you know? Hedberg Supply will partially match your contribution to the MNLA Research and Education Partners Fund. Get the details - www.hedbergsupply.com/mnla.cfm

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For the very best in landscape supplies, come home to Hedberg! Here you will find experts who are committed to helping you be more successful. Save the date for the Northern Green Expo, January 13 through 15, 2016. Visit Hedberg at booth 1207. Mention this ad at any of our three locations now through December 31, 2015 and receive a free coffee mug!

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âžž P I N OAKS

Pin oak with characteristic yellow leaves of iron deficiency.

T

The same pin oak, one year later.

Chlorosis of maple leaf showing green veins.

ree selection is one of the most important considerations when deciding on the right tree for the right place. Often there is a dizzying array of factors swirling around in our minds; sun/shade, mature size, form, hardiness, fall color, messiness, and disease. But the landscape below ground remains hidden and soil conditions are often unknown.

Pin oaks (Quercus palustris) suffer from iron chlorosis when planted in high pH (alkaline) soils. Chlorosis is a fancy name for yellowing of plant foliage due to a lack of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll produces the green coloration in leaves, and iron is an essential component. Oh sure, there is plenty of iron in the soil, but high soil pH prevents the iron from being absorbed by the tree. If trees cannot produce enough green chlorophyll to feed themselves, they essentially starve to death.

Affected trees have yellow leaves with dark green veins, angular brown spots, and brown, curled leaf margins. In severe cases, leaf color may change from yellow to white to brown. After suffering from chlorosis for a period of years, branches and twigs may begin to die. Eventually, the tree dies. Other trees similarly susceptible include red maple and river birch. Chlorosis is often most severe in areas where topsoil has been removed, exposing clay subsoil, as in new housing developments. Pin oak prefers moist, rich, acid (pH 7 or lower), well-drained soil. A simple $25 soil test can tell you the soil pH and is well worth the money in the long run.

Correcting the iron chlorosis problem can be painful for the property owner. The best advice is to avoid pin oak when the soil pH is too high.

FAITH APPELQUIST is

an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, an ISA Municipal Specialist MN, and an ASCA Registered Consulting ArboristÂŽ. Faith can be reached at faith@treequality.com.

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Join us for a full day of education prior to the Northern Green Expo!

Tuesday, January 12, 2016 Minneapolis Convention Center

More information and online registration is on

Landscape www.MNLA.biz. There will be NO onsite registration. Please Lighting note that registration fees are separate from those Design and Advanced for the Northern Green Expo.

Lighting Control Applications Registration Deadline: (PLT Relicensure) DOLI Course Code: 20150501 January 6, 2016 This class provides a total of eight hours of continuing education credits for the Power Limited Technician License, with material orientated specifically towards the landscape lighting specialist. Take away greater knowledge of landscape lighting design and control applications, get updated on NEC code, and receive continuing education credits for your PLT license.

Design Track: Niche Landscape Design

Early Bird Price: Member: $129, Non-member: $149 Regular Price: Member: $159, Non-member: $179 Time: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Expand your knowledge, and grow and sustain your design business. This class will provide information on a variety of niche landscape design ideas you can add to your design repertoire. Topics such as: therapeutic gardens, hell strip gardening, no-mow lawns, small space urban design, “Know Maintenance” design, and rain gardens.

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Presented by industry experts, including: Dr. Jeannie Larson, Arboretum/Center for Spirituality and Healing; Evelyn J. Hadden; Jason Rathe, Field Outdoor Spaces; Peter MacDonagh, Kestrel Design Group; and Roy Diblik, Northwind Perennial Farm.

CEO Symposium: The Transformative CEO

Early Bird Price: Member: $129, Non-member: $149 Regular Price: Member: $159, Non-member: $179 Time: 8:00 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.

Includes networking reception dinner and presentation by Jeffrey Scott, Jeffrey Scott Consulting, Inc.

The MNLA CEO Symposium has become the “place to be” on Tuesday night. This popular evening creates an opportunity for CEO-level members to connect. Jeffrey Scott will discuss behaviors that CEO’s and managers need to power their companies to greatness. Scott will touch on common traps that need to be avoided, and how to create sustainable success by adopting these transformative behaviors. Learn how to build and sustain the company of your dreams by fulfilling the leadership potential within you!

Trees: Understanding Needs and Problems to Maximize Value

MNLA/MTGF Member-Only Event Early Bird Price: $129 | Regular Price: $139 Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Some estimates put the value of a mature tree between $1,000 and $10,000, because the benefits of trees are so great. In this workshop you will gain a better understanding of how to choose and care for trees in Minnesota’s climate. Presenters will also provide the latest information on tree pest issues, including Emerald Ash Borer and Oak Wilt.

Price: $65 | Time: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

SPONSORED BY:

Sponsorship opportunities available on most sessions – Contact Faith Jensen: 952-934-2891, faith@pierreproductions.com

➾ LE G AL ISSUES

Can Seasonal Employees Collect Unemployment Benefits?

The ebb and flow of green industry work often makes having seasonal employees a necessity. Now that the landscaping season has wound down for another year, one thing you or your employees may be wondering is whether or not seasonal workers are permitted to collect unemployment benefits.

Aileen Conway

Zlimen & McGuiness PLLC

Are seasonal workers allowed to collect unemployment checks in their downtime?

Traditionally, many people who worked seasonal positions had been allowed to collect unemployment benefits. However, a larger number of states are now saying that they shouldn’t be able to receive benefits and employers are often surprised to discover that in certain circumstances, seasonal or temporary employees may still qualify for unemployment benefits at the end of their job obligation.

Why do some states allow seasonal workers to collect benefits and others do not?

Federal law gives each state the option to decide whether or not to allow seasonal workers to collect unemployment benefits. Employers and the federal government pay into the unemployment system, and each state handles the distributions. The purpose of unemployment benefits is to act as a safety net, helping those who lose their job through no fault of their own. They are intended to help people get by until they find other work, not to replace full-time income.

Unemployment benefits are a finite resource, and states must decide how to use their limited funds.

Additionally, many seasonal workers aren’t unemployed in the traditional sense; they are simply in-between work commitments. Some of these workers have jobs they will be returning to in peak season, which means that they may have less incentive to find work while they are receiving unemployment benefits since they know they will collect it for a couple of months and then return to their previous job. Some states have decided that paying people in their off-season when they know they have

a job to return to is not consistent with the intended purpose of unemployment benefits.

Are your employees eligible for unemployment benefits?

Seasonal employees in Minnesota may be eligible for unemployment benefits if they had sufficient earnings prior to their layoff. Those earnings are calculated during the income “base period”, which is defined as follows: In Minnesota, a base period is a one-year (four calendar quarters) period of time. The four quarters of the calendar year are: Q1 — January, February, and March Q2 — April, May and June Q3 — July, August, and September Q4 — October, November, and December In Minnesota, the last four completed calendar quarters are used as the base period, as long as the effective date of the unemployment insurance claim is not during the month before the fourth completed calendar quarter.

Most states use the first four quarters. For example, if a worker filed a claim in October of 2015, the base period would be from June 1, 2014 through May 31, 2015.

It is important for employers to remember that the base period may include work they did prior to working for you.

Necessary Earnings within the Base Period

During the base period, the employee must have earned at least $2,400 or 5.3% of the state’s average annual wage (rounded down to the next $100), whichever number is higher. december 15

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➾ LEGAL ISSUES

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Overall, it is important for employers to understand unemployment laws in their respective states because each state defines how and when benefits are awarded.

Base periods are calculated differently, the necessary earnings within the base pay vary, and some states have provisions that do not allow seasonal employees to collect benefits. It is always a best practice to consult an employment attorney regarding your state’s unemployment laws and provisions.

Take-away

In Minnesota, employees may qualify for unemployment benefits if they have sufficient earnings within their base period.

Overall, it is important for employers to understand unemployment laws in their respective states because each state defines how and when benefits are awarded. Base periods are calculated differently, the necessary earnings within the base pay vary, and some states have provisions that do not allow seasonal employees to collect benefits.

It is always a best practice to consult an employment attorney regarding your state’s unemployment laws and provisions.

This article provides general information on business and employment 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 business law, collections, or other legal matters, please contact Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC at 651-331-6500 or info@zmattorneys.com.

AILEEN CONWAY is a law clerk at Zlimen & McGuiness PLLC. She routinely assists attorneys with matters that are important to the green industry.

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TROUBLESHOOTING CIRCUITS: PART ONE SHORTS, CORRODED, AND DAMAGED SINGLE AND MULTIVALVE WIRE CIRCUITS This two-part article is provided as part of a series of monthly articles describing the basic principles of using a voltage-ohm meter (multimeter) in determining the electrical conditions within an irrigation system.

Andrew Lindquist | Links Systems, Inc.

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➾ T R OU BLESHOOTIN G C I R C UI TS

Figure A.

T

he unhealthy wire connections (faults) reviewed in this two part article are the result of shorts, corrosion, and nicks to the wire’s insulating housing or the wire itself. The first part covers single valve circuits. The second part covers multivalve circuits and includes a brainteaser that encompasses both part one and part two.

In last month’s article, various scenarios focusing on cut-wires were presented, with the diagnostic reading on a multimeter registering an “open” circuit… usually designated by an “infinite resistance” display unique to your meter. Open circuits (cut wires) are frequently the result of digging activities — so once an open circuit diagnostic reading occurs, look for such activities. Digging activities can also create nicks and other damage to the wire, causing ‘unhealthy’ (faulted) wire circuits. The use of a multimeter can provide specific measured values that assist you to decisively determine if the fault is due to cut wires or nicked wires.

For this two-part article, I will be referencing a five circuit (station) controller layout. Of the five circuits available, we will be analyzing only the first two circuits. As shown in Figure “A”, Terminal (Circuit) 1 contains one electric valve and Terminal (Circuit) 2 contains three electrical valves wired in a parallel configuration.1 Connecting these valves in a parallel configuration will cause all three valves to energize simultaneously when Circuit 2 is activated.

All valves in the system are electrically identical — each having 30 ohm of resistance and drawing 0.9 amps when activated by the irrigation controller’s 24 volt alternating current (AC) output.2 As mentioned, we have wire circuits that are complete, but not necessarily healthy. That is, the wires (or wire connections) may have been nicked, worn, chewed-on, melted, or corroded. These unhealthy (wire fault) conditions can cause the electrical circuit to exhibit higher or lower ohms resistance readings that would be expected from a healthy (non-faulted) circuit. The ability of a multi40

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meter to measure circuit resistance variations becomes a very useful tool in identifying which type of fault is present. Knowing the type of fault that may be present will assist you in quickly locating the actual fault.

As you have probably heard before, electricity follows the path of least resistance. More accurately stated, the majority of electricity will follow the path of least resistance. The actual distribution of the electrons is apportioned by the inherent resistance of any path it has available to it. A visual example of this is a lightning bolt that ‘forks’.

The majority of electrons follow the least path of resistance, visually represented by the main bolt. However, there may be other higher resistant paths available to follow, and an apportioned percentage of electrons will take the alternate paths — thus visually creating a “forked” lightning bolt. This awareness of potential multiple wire paths will become useful later in this and other articles.

Shorted wire circuits: Short circuits are exactly what the name implies; the wire path is shorter than what was intended. Short circuit faults can be caused by many factors, with the most common being: damage to control wires from poor installation techniques (excessive pulling, bending, or damaging of the wire’s protective covering); careless digging; “critter” nibbling of the wire insulation (both in the field wiring and within the controller); excessive wire stripping of the wire’s insulation at the controller’s terminal strip — thereby providing the opportunity for other wires to inadvertently come in contact; electrical surges (lightning).

Corroded wire circuits: Faults due to corroded wire and/or wire connections are the result of moisture entering that area and corroding (oxidizing) the outside of the wire and/or the contact between wires. This degradation in the quality of the electron path will create higher than expected ohm resistance measurements — just the opposite of a short, which causes lower than expected resistance measurements.

Figure B.

The causes for corroded circuits are similar to shorted wire circuits, with the notable addition of poor (non-waterproof ) wire connects.

Overall, poor wire connects are the most frequent factor causing corroded circuits. Solution: always use and correctly install quality waterproof wire connects.

As a note, some circuit analyzing equipment available in the marketplace will only indicate a circuit issue when the circuit resistance is too high, but will not differentiate between a higher than expected resistance (which may indicate a corroded circuit) vs. a cut circuit (which indicated an infinite resistance). An advantage of using a multimeter is that the ohms resistance value allows you to differentiate between cut circuits (infinite resistance) and corroded circuits (high ohms resistance).

Characteristics of a Short Circuit: Since short circuits have a wire path shorter than it should be, the consequential controller’s operation is to: blow a fuse; have the controller’s internal diagnostics indicate a short; or have a non-functioning circuit that does not blow a fuse. For example: referring to Figure “A”, if in a healthy condition, the wire circuit for Circuit (terminal) 1 would have a resistance measurement of 30 ohms. However, if, as shown in “Figure B”, the wire path was ‘shorted’, as indicated by a wavy red line at point “AA”, the electron path of least resistance is through the shorted path, thus avoiding the solenoid’s 30 ohms resistance. Such a shorted path would cause a resistance measurement of one ohm or less, typically blow a fuse in the controller, or be registered as a short by the controller’s internal diagnostics, if so equipped.

A short occurring at Point “BB” would, when Circuit 1 is activated, also activate Circuit 2. Likewise, as when Circuit 2 is activated, Circuit 1 would also activate. Depending upon the electrical capacity of the controller, you may immediately blow a fuse, operate with both circuits operating when either one is activated, or cause the

controller’s transformer to run warm/hotter than normal — which may damage the transformer over the long run.

Multimeter Measurements: When using a multimeter to measure the circuit’s ohm resistance measurements, the expected multimeter measurement for Circuit 1 is 30 ohms and for Circuit 2 is 10 ohms.

However, if there is a short at location BB, each circuit would be activating four valves. As was presented in the first troubleshooting article, four 30 ohm valves wired in parallel produces a calculated ohms resistance of 7.5 ohms (i.e. 30 ohms divided by four). This ‘shared’ ohm measurement of 7.5 ohms for both circuits is a dead giveaway of a short between their control wires. If this is the case and you are using multi-strand wire, you will want to start by looking for control wires that are crossed near the terminal strip, damage to the multi-strand wire housing, or severely bent wire. For single strand wire used on larger systems, check for damaged wire at control boxes and any field wire splices.

If there was an internal wiring short inside the controller or a malfunctioning programming, you could confirm this as follows: disconnect the field wires for Circuit 1 and 2 then activate Circuit 1. There should be 24 volts AC output expected at Terminal 1 and none at Terminal 2. If this checks out okay, deactivate Circuit 1 and activate Circuit 2. Again, check voltage outputs at Terminals 1 and 2, with 24 volts AC expected at Terminal 2 only. If this checks out okay, then the issue would be in the field wires. If either of the previous two checks are not okay, review the controller’s programming, making sure that simultaneous valve operation is not programmed into the controller. If simultaneous programming is not the issue, then the controller’s internal components have failed, and controller repair/replacement is most likely required.

For locating field wiring shorts, the use of a ground fault locator and/or wire tracker can be very helpful. Also, if you can’t locate the december 15

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➾ T R OU BLESHOOTIN G C I R C UI TS

short, you may need to run a new wire path. If you’re lucky, the original installer may have left a spare wire in the multi-strand wire path. It is “nice” to leave a spare wire or two in the multi-strand cable for future repair or additions to the system. Thank you installers for doing this!

Locating short circuit and corrosion faults: Although the diagnostics for a short and corroded circuits is quite straight-forward, physically locating these ‘faults’ can be problematic. Overall, I would rather resolve a cut (open) wire issue than necessarily a short circuit issue. This is because determining the location of a cut wire circuit is generally both visually and “site digging activity history review” easier to find than are shorted wire circuits. Shorts can be very small or hidden within a multi-strand wire bundle.

Up to this time, all of your multimeter diagnostics have been at the controller. In order to locate the shorts, corroded wire, or wire connect faults in the field wiring, you will need to isolate various aspects of the circuit. That is, you will disconnect the field wiring from the solenoid and measure its resistance individually. To do this, you will: 1. At the controller, connect that circuit’s terminal wire and the common wire together.

2. Go to the valve and isolate the field wiring from the valve’s solenoid by disconnecting the common and control wire.

3. Measure the resistance of the field wiring circuit back to the controller. If the field wire resistance measurement is higher than expected, the fault is somewhere in the field wiring and you will need to track that down. If the field wiring is 42

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healthy, you will measure a very low resistance of one or two ohms, indicating that the fault seems to be the valve’s solenoid.

4. Check the resistance of the valve’s solenoid — which should be 30 ohms. Theoretically, since the field wire circuit checked out OK, you would expect to get a higher than expected solenoid resistance, verifying that the problem was the solenoid. If this is the case, you need to replace the solenoid. However, if you get a 30 ohms resistance measurement through the solenoid, indicating that the solenoid is OK, then the fault was the wire connection. That is, the field wiring is checking out OK and so is the valve’s solenoid… so the problem must have been the wire connection. At this point, inspect and re-strip the wires, put on a waterproof wire connect, walk back to controller, separate the common and circuit field wire and re-measure the circuit’s ohms resistance. It should measure the expected 30 ohms resistance. If it does not, repeat steps 1 thru 4.

What if the circuit now checks out OK but does not operate?

Well, if internal operations (programming, voltage output, shutoff sensors, etc.) are functioning properly, the electrical circuit is healthy so the problem is internally in the valve or (as embarrassing as this can be) there is no water pressure available to the valve.

Don’t assume that the issue has to be the controller or the wiring.

This is why, when trouble shooting, you want to begin the process by verifying the integrity of the system as a whole… not just jump to conclusions and assume it is the electronics of the controller (as emphasized in the first article).

Poor terminal and wire connects: There are plenty of systems that have inadequate/no waterproof wire connects along with loose wire connection at the terminal. You should always check the integrity of the wire connections at the terminal of the controller; the use of electrical tape and connects used on automotive trailer wire are not adequate. They are water-resistant but not water-proof. There are some ‘nationally’ manufactured wire connects that claim to be good… but they are not. Making good waterproof wire connections is key to eliminating wiring issues due to corrosion. Quality wire connects also greatly reduce the opportunity for lightning to enter into the control system. This is especially true on larger systems and extra expense and care should be taken when selecting and installing waterproof connections.

Nicked Wires: Nicked wires can create three troublesome issues.

1. The waterproofing integrity of the wire’s insulation is compromised, thereby allowing infiltration of moisture and subsequent corrosion. The infiltrating moisture may also enter any wire connection. Any such infiltrating moisture will undesirably increase the ohms resistance of the wire and connections.

2. The nick will reduce the wire’s diameter and create a physical “roadblock’ for the electrons to work through, thereby causing increased resistance in the wire circuit.

3. The nicked wire may be exposed to the soil, causing the electrons to travel into the ground rather than back to the controller. This “ground fault” condition will create very high resistance measurements — which is a very strong indication of a ground fault condition.

Ground faults diagnostics and locating is a somewhat in-depth topic that cannot be covered in the length available for this article, but will be one of the topics covered in future articles.

This concludes the first part of this article. Next month’s part-two article concludes the review of faulted wire circuits and includes multivalve circuits. In addition, a brainteaser will be provided, allowing you the opportunity to apply your understanding of variations in multimeter measurements in distinguishing between the various types of faulted circuits presented.

Endnotes 1. Irrigation valves should be wired in a parallel, not in a series configuration. Incorrectly wiring the circuit into a series configuration will increase the resistance of the circuit. Increased circuit resistance can easily create excessive load (amount of amps drawn) when activated and can potentially cause malfunctioning valves, blown fuses, and damage to the controller’s internal components or wiring.

2. The expected electrical performance of irrigation components may be obtained from its product performance sheets, an affixed label, by contacting your supplier, or through the component’s manufacturer. Controller output typically ranges from 19 to 27 volts AC. The amount of resistance created by a valve’s electric solenoid may be found by referencing the manufacturer’s product information or by direct measurement using a multimeter. A valve’s solenoid resistance is measured in “ohms”. Generally, most 24 volt AC irrigation solenoids have between 30 to 55 ohms resistance. However, you can more accurately troubleshoot by knowing the specific expected resistance for the valve’s solenoids being evaluated.

ANDREW LINDQUIST, owner of Links Systems, Inc. can be reached at alindquist@linkssystemsinc.com.

EDUCATION CELEBRATION MIXER B Y I N VI TATI O N O N LY

Honoring students of the green industry!

The Education Celebration mixer will feature the 2015–2016 MNLA Foundation Scholarship winners and their sponsors, along with alumni from higher education institutions around the region. Alumni and students have the unique opportunity to share and socialize, while being recognized for their commitment to the green industry.

BY INVITATION ONLY.

Thursday, January 14, 2016, 4:30–6:00 pm Hyatt Regency Hotel, Northwoods Room 1300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

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WHAT’S NEW IN FRUIT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA? Jim Luby | Department of Horticultural Science, University of Minnesota

Fruit of Pink Popcorn® (MNPink1 cultivar) blueberry, a new pink-fruited blueberry that debuts in 2016.

(Photo by Dave Hansen, University of Minnesota).

New People

Dr. Matt Clark joined the faculty as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Horticultural Science in July 2015. Matt will lead the grape breeding and enology program in the department. Grape breeding has been conducted at the University since 1908. Early efforts focused on table grapes and the Bluebell variety is still available from nursery sources. In 1978, a wine grape breeding program began and has produced four varieties: • Frontenac, a blue grape used for red wine as well as excellent rosé and port-style wines.

• Frontenac gris, a bronze colored sport of Frontenac used for white, rosé and dessert wines.

• La Crescent, which makes aromatic Riesling-style wines.

• Marquette, a blue grape that makes excellent red table wines in the style of its grandparent, Pinot noir.

The wine industry in Minnesota has expanded rapidly with the availability of these varieties going from one winery in 1978 to over 50 wineries in 2015. The grape breeding program under Dr. Clark’s direction will continue to develop new grape varieties for wine use as well as table grapes for fresh eating and juice production.

New Variety

Pink Popcorn® (MNPink1 cultivar) pink blueberry is the newest introduction from the University Blueberry Breeding Program. The plant is similar in stature to other recent U of M releases such as Chippewa and Polaris but produces a blushing pink berry. Although several pink fruited selections have been tested through the years

Top left: Professor Matt Clark, new leader of the grape breeding and enology project in the Department of Horticultural Science, explains grape breeding at the September 12 grape open house at the University of Minnesota Horticultural Research Center. (Photo courtesy of Matt Clark).

Top right: “Growing Fruit in the Northern Garden,” a new ebook on fruit growing in cold climates, is available as a free download from Apple’s iBooks site for Mac, iPad tablets and some iPhones. Image Courtesy of Emily Hoover and Emily Tepe).

in the program, most had a bland flavor. Pink Popcorn brings a tangy, aromatic blueberry flavor to the table in a very unusual package. Plants are being propagated by Briggs Nursery (http://www. briggsnursery.com/).

New Information

Dr. Emily Hoover, Professor and head of the Department of Horticultural Science, and Emily Tepe, a Research Fellow in the department, have published a new interactive ebook “Growing december 15

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➾ MI NNESOTA FRUIT

A big new challenge for northern fruit growing has come on the scene with the arrival in 2012 of a new invasive pest, the Spotted Winged Drosophila, or SWD. Fruit in the Northern Garden”. https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/ growing-fruit-in-northern/id989003834?mt=11 Consumers have become fascinated in the past few years with growing their own food. This guide will help gardeners decide which fruits are right for their gardens and their lifestyles, taking readers through every step from planning, choosing cultivars, and planting, to harvesting and pruning. Readers will find information on the major pests to look out for, and simple tips on how to deal with them; or better yet, prevent them.

“Growing Fruit in the Northern Garden” is available as a free download from Apple’s iBooks site for Mac, iPad tablets and some iPhones.

New Challenge

A big new challenge for northern fruit growing has come on the scene with the arrival in 2012 of a new invasive pest, the Spotted Winged Drosophila, or SWD. This drosophila is unlike other fruit flies in that it can lay its eggs in intact fruit by cutting through some thin-skinned fruits with its saw-like ovipositor. Favorite targets seem to be raspberries, blackberries, tart cherries, apricots, and late blueberries. Populations are usually not large in Minnesota until early to mid-July, so early fruits are not affected. Thick-skinned fruits like apples and pears are usually not affected. University of Minnesota faculty Mary Rogers and Chris Phillips and their students are monitoring populations of SWD in fruit plantings and native fruiting species. They are also experimenting with organic and conventional insecticides and other management practices to control this pest.

More information can be found at these web sites: • http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/insects/find/spottedwing-drosophila-in-home-gardens/ • http://www.ipm.msu.edu/invasive_species/spotted_wing_ drosophila • http://eorganic.info/spottedwingorganic • spottedwing.org Professor Mary Rogers of the University of Minnesota Department of Horticultural Science and her colleagues in the Department of Entomology are exploring the infestations and control of the Spotted Winged Drosophila, a recent invasive pest that is destructive for many berry and other fruit crops.

The Spotted Winged Drosophila female (bottom) lays her eggs in intact fruit. Larvae feed on the ripening fruit (center) making the fruit unattractive or unusable on the plant before harvest (top). (Photos courtesy of Mary Rogers).

JIM LUBY’S research goal is to develop, evaluate, and introduce fruit cultivars with horticultural, disease and pest resistance, and fruit quality characters desired by growers and consumers in Minnesota and surrounding areas. Jim can be reached at lubyx001@ umn.edu.

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2016 Highlights  REGISTER NOW!

JANUARY 13-15, 2016

MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER

All Expo sessions, exhibitors and other information is available in print or online: 1. The newly-expanded 2016 Advance Program was bundled with this issue of the Scoop.

2. The Advance Program is also available to read in our online magazine format. Click here to read it online, or find the link in the footer of www.NorthernGreenExpo.org.

3. Download the Northern Green Expo App or visit www.NorthernGreenExpo.org for the most up-to-date information on everything Expo-related!

“X” MARKS THE SPOTS

LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST

LEARN HOW POLICY IS AFFECTING LANDSCAPES

It’s sure to be cold outside, so warm up with some delicious food and start the morning off right at the MNLA Legislative Breakfast! We’ve invited Brent Mecham from the Irrigation Association as our keynote speaker to discuss “How Policy is Affecting Landscapes.” Mecham will discuss how changes and trends in the landscape are being strongly influenced by changes in weather patterns and reactions by policy makers. The discussion will look at trends in California because of drought and in other parts of the country because of growth or over-stressed infrastructure.

Date: Thursday, January 14, 2015 | Time: 7:00-8:20 a.m. Program begins at 7:30.

NEW Location: Lake Harriet Room, Hyatt Regency Hotel Cost: $30 (Note: This is a ticketed event with a separate fee from the Northern Green Expo. Tickets can be purchased along with your registration for the Northern Green Expo.)

SU PP O R T E D BY:

TREASURE HUNT Win big prizes in the 2016 Expo Treasure Hunt – Maps available at Expo entrances.

Supported by:

S L OU TH ST. PAU

MNLA AWARDS GALA (NEW LOCATION: HILTON MINNEAPOLIS)

The 2016 Awards Gala begins at 5:30 p.m. on January 13, 2016 at the Hilton Minneapolis. The MNLA Awards Gala celebrates the green industry and the year’s award winners. Join us for an evening full of fantastic food, outstanding projects, amazing volunteers, and lots of fun. Kick off your year in style at the Awards Gala!

One drink ticket, all food stations, dessert & coffee included with ticket purchase. Cash bar available throughout the event. Note that this is a ticketed event with a separate fee from the Expo.

Cost: Tickets are $70 and are available on a first-come firstserved basis. Go to MNLA.biz to order your tickets now.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:

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➾ S E CT I O N TITLE

CRASH!

THE 2015 NATIONAL GARDENING SURVEY RETURNS US TO REALITY Ian Baldwin

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➾ NAT I O N AL GARDEN I N G SUR VEY

There Is a New Elephant in the Room!

When I first saw last year’s National Gardening Survey* (NGS) results from the 2013 gardening year, I was wary of the massive jump (18%) in total DIY garden spending or 21% rise in spending per household, as that did not reflect what we were hearing from our clients out in the retail trenches. So this year’s survey, showing a drop of 23% in total spending and 24% less per household, comes as a leveler. No behavior survey is perfect so we expect ups and downs, but we now have data from the same questions for over 30 years and the overall trend is pretty disheartening.

In reality, the previous year’s numbers were an anomaly and this year’s report just shows garden spending returning to the doldrums of 2010 to 2012 (well below 2008). Now that’s discouraging.

Any Good News?

Yes. Despite all the distractions available, householders are still “gardening,” though I suspect fewer consumers now use that word.

Participation in gardening has been statistically flat for the last five years with around 70% of all homes doing something. That is still 84 million homes, a market many industries would love to have, but we used to be the nation’s sunny spot. Remember, less than 20 years ago, we were America’s “favorite outdoor pastime” with Martha Stewart hauling in great armloads of perennials and 4 to 5 gardening magazines at the supermarket checkout?

Well that “good thing” has changed to a “so-so thing” for many.

You can almost hear them saying “If I have time and can figure out what to do — is there a good gardening app?”

The dilemma we face is that, despite all the competition for their time and money, householders continue to do something in the garden, but are spending less and less money doing it. Even as household spending picks up again after the recession, garden spending has not. Has competition reduced unit prices? Are consumers still buying the same number of products as six years ago? I don’t think so. If anything, with the exception of warehouse clubs, the price-driving “big box stores” have increased prices lately.

Similarly the local garden centers (LGCs) we know have steadily increased prices and all our clients show an increased average-saleper-customer (but maybe not from garden products).

Category High-lights and Low-lights

Fortunately, the shining star of the last five years — food gardening — has held its own and is clearly here to stay. This is the only activity that has steadily increased its share of garden spending since 2005. Everything else has had highs and lows.

Some individual products have done well despite the spending malaise. Cyclical spending such as machinery, as well as “maintenance” tasks like insect control rise and fall with need. Yearly spending to keep the property looking tidy such as lawn care and flower gardening have just declined at the same rate as everything else, but there has been no growth in any of these categories in the last ten years. The survey does not allow for more modern “color” planting using flowering shrubs, grasses and perennials instead of annuals, so this activity probably continues to rise, which is great news given the higher ticket and extra tie-in products!

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“Age Shall Not Wither Them”

It comes as no surprise that over-55-year-olds are the biggest spenders of the age groups. This was not always the case. The 55+ group’s spending share averaged 37% from 2003 to 2008. It rose to 44% in the 2009 recession, and has now reached the highest ever recorded — a staggering 51% in 2014. So the lawn and garden market is even more dependent on the baby boomers, just as they adapt to retirement, fixed incomes, and health care issues.

At the other end of the spectrum, the recent surge in gardening by the youngest group in the survey, the 18–34 year olds, seems to have faded. Could it be they were tempted to try it and weren’t thrilled with the process or end result?

On Average, Things Are Not Even “Average”

Gardening is clearly not capturing the consumers’ imagination and dollars like it used to do. But because one year’s data is always suspect, we took a look at two sets of data, averaging results from 2009 to 2014 and comparing them with similar averages from 2001 to 2008.

The average household spending from 2001 to 2008 was $435, but from 2009 to 2014 it was $359. This explains why many LGCs (even the best) are still not seeing their sales top those of 2006 or 2007. It also validates the move by the sharper operators into other categories, departments and services as they see core gardening products stagnate.

Remember, the NGS asks householders about garden spending irrespective of where they shopped. So if the whole retail sale is down and the national chains are increasing their share of a shrinking pie, it puts even more pressure on the LGC channel.

Unlike other recoveries after recessions, garden spending is not expanding as the economy improves.

If ever there were three statistics that called for “Re-Inventing Garden Retail,” these are they, yet we have clung on to the same model hoping for a better economy, more housing starts, improved weather, new politicians, or whatever. The garden retail model has worked so successfully for decades; consumers driving to a store (when they are open) and in their spare time(!) being told what to do and buy, then going home and hoping for success. This is clearly not the way forward.

Now think about how the consumer’s “spare time” has changed.

In 2002, there was very little (if any) broadband internet, online shopping or streaming video. In 2005, there were NO smart

Fortunately, the shining star of the last five years — Food Gardening — has held its own and is clearly here to stay. This is the only activity that has steadily increased its share of garden spending since 2005. Everything else has had highs and lows. phones(!), while Netflix mailed DVDs, Google was a start-up desktop search engine and Facebook was for Ivy League students!

Think of the burgeoning choices consumers now have to spend their discretionary time and money — most of it involving staring at a phone, tablet, computer, or TV. The new elephant in the gardening room might be “screen time,” estimated to be at least 12 hours per day for the average American adult.

So Is the Glass Still Half Full?

Yes. The surviving independents who weathered the recession are looking forward to some good years. The operative word is “surviving.” Think how many LGCs and greenhouses are no longer in business in your area or on your contact list. Did all that business go to the big guys? Obviously not. The NGS tracks spending at all retail outlets, not just LGCs, in 16 activities from lawn care to water gardening. Results show flat-to-declining purchases over the last ten years in everything but “food gardening,” irrespective of where they shopped. So most LGCs’ “growth” is probably from categories outside the NGS scope such as gift/décor, patio/outdoor living, food, apparel, Christmas, installation, and so on. A good P.O.S. project might be to compare core garden department sales and customer count, before and since 2009.

Absolutely. Americans like gardens, they just don’t like “gardening.”

How did that happen? The world seems to have defined gardening as hot, messy work that involves commitment, knowledge and some mysterious intuition, not to mention the expense and risk of failure.

Hmmm, that sounds like cooking, too! How did they manage to make cooking so exciting and desirable?

We have allowed others to define our image which, as any politician will tell you, is not a good strategy. But despite this image, 84 million households are gardening, with probably a few million more wishing for the end result.

We have to change the image. We need to talk about at-home entertaining or home-grown veggies, family time with nature, kid’s projects, saving Monarchs, relaxation and escape, or pride in property enhancement and style. We should take nothing for granted and look at everything as an opportunity.

What IS Going On?

End-Game?

The NGS data shows:

If you are looking to retire in five to ten years, why care? You will probably be OK as an owner, though employees might not be thrilled with the strategy.

But if you are building a saleable asset or a business for the next generations, the time to start changing is overdue. No one (least of all a consultant!) truly knows the future, but leveraging your skills

“But My GC Peers Are Doing Well Now”

• Total garden spending peaked at $39.6 billion in 2002.

• Spending per household peaked at $466, also in 2002.

• Participation peaked at 91 million households in 2005.

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➾ NAT I O N AL GARDEN I N G SUR VEY

What can you DO? Six Calls to Action from the 2015 NGS:

1. Become a Food Gardening Solution Center: Food gardening is the only garden category with consistent growth since 2008, but the plant portion of that spend is a small part of the total spend. LGC must get into the “food gardening” business not just the “food plant” business and become the go-to retailer for every aspect from irrigation to raised beds (“raised bed” soil was a big seller at Home Depot this year), to canning supplies. All backed by how-to classes on YouTube and tasting/cook-off events. Celebrate your local-ness with local food how-to knowledge!

2. Drive Traffic: After ten years of declining customer count, the immediate strategy for most LGCs should be to drive more traffic using a combination of competitively-priced, driver-item products and categories that extend the season such as apparel, food, bird, homebrew, indoor gardening, and so on.

3. Go Mobile: Many younger consumers are interested in gardening but are very dependent on their mobile device.

LGCs MUST invest in making their website and marketing methods “mobile friendly”. Generation Y is trending towards smaller independent retailers but only if they can find and use them on a mobile device!

4. Know Your Numbers: Analyze your category trends (unit sales, dollar volume, and customer count if possible) since 2006 and find out just where IS the growth? Is it in gardening or all those other categories?

The 55+ group’s spending share averaged 37% from 2003 to 2008. It rose to 44% in the 2009 recession, and has now reached the highest ever recorded — a staggering 51% in 2014. and reputation into a garden-success-resource center or “village,” based on a wide range of services seems attractive. These might include conventional retail, with design-build indoors and out, at-home maintenance, garden-coaching plus mobile everything, including real-time diagnostic services. There will obviously be great niches in up-scale life and outdoor living centers or gourmet food and cooking/brewing centers. I see a strong niche in all-natural, organic/local, environmental activities or decorating/party planning or a complete do-everything-for-me center. There are opportunities in agro-tourism, apparel, weddings, cafes, community centers, and whatever your local market can relate to.

The timing is perfect now that “local” is in vogue as consumers turn back to their communities. Meanwhile, most LGCs have under-used land and buildings, empty seasons, talented teams, under-leveraged borrowing capacity, and a safe, strong balance sheet.

But as the National Gardening Survey has shown for ten years now, there is no time to waste. Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines….!

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5. Look in the Mirror: Take a long hard, unemotional, objective look at your company’s image. Does it still look, feel (smell?) and operate like a 1995 garden center? Profitable means more than just pretty!

6. Be the Answer Place (for New Gardeners): Take a clear strategic look at what it will take to become your local community’s “one-stop, first-time garden/landscape success center,” including “Do It for Me.” (Author’s note: you probably aren’t as friendly and approachable as you think you are!) *As a reminder the NGS is an on-line survey by Harris Interactive of a statistically representative sample of householders, drawn from a database of seven million households. The survey was carried out early in 2015, and captured a householder’s participation in and spending on gardening in 2014. The data is compiled into a 260+ page report, (available from The National Gardening Association).

The NGS’s 30+ year history gives us a huge database of consumer participation and spending.

IAN BALDWIN is a business adviser for garden and hardware retailers. This article first appeared on his blog at www.ianbaldwin.com. Get in touch with Ian at 916-682-1069 or ian@ ianbaldwin.com.

2016 Highlights 2016 Highlights J A N U A R Y 13 -15 , 2 016

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CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES: HOW TO USE SOCIAL MEDIA TO DIFFERENTIATE YOUR BUSINESS Jeff Korhan | Media First Marketing

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I

f you want to stand out online and attract the right customers, then stop marketing and selling products and services like most other businesses. Instead, build and refine your business process and sell the possibility for delivering the amazing customer experience your buyer is dreaming about.

Buyers are smarter today because the Internet gives them access to so much information. Therefore, when you make available the one thing they need to complete their decision-making process — a glimpse of the amazing experience of working with your business — you give them a compelling reason to engage.

One way to approach this is known as mapping the customer experience. This is not a small undertaking, but a comprehensive analysis of what prospective buyers are seeing, thinking, feeling, and doing at every single touchpoint with your business.

Mapping the Customer Experience

When people rave about companies they tend to tell stories, not so much about the products and services, but about their entire experience, including before, during, and after the sale.

One example is Apple. The genius of Steve Jobs not only included product innovation, but also how these products were marketed in retail stores. From the moment you walk into the door trained representatives greet you, answer questions, and depending upon whether you have a standing appointment for service or are just browsing, know exactly what to say and do to enhance your experience.

For example, everyone is trained to never say, “You have a problem.” Instead, they will comment, “It turns out that …” Your challenge with social media is applying similar consideration to making the experience of imagining and acquiring your landscapes uniquely personal, because thanks to the Internet, everything about the physical product has been largely commoditized.

Thus, if you want to stand out and attract the right clients, both on and offline, in addition to working on your equipment in the off-season, make breaking down and improving your customer experience an annual ritual. Here’s a guide for getting started.

1. Map the customer experience. Divide a dry erase board or large piece of paper into 4 equal quadrants and name them (in no particular order) thinking, seeing, feeling and doing..

Use sticky notes to jot down ideas within each quadrant for all the major customer touchpoints with your business, such as when they visit your website, speak with the office, meet with a designer, receive a contract, start and finish a project, pay an invoice, and so on.

This will sharpen your awareness of what is important to your customers at every stage of the experience. You’ll be reminded of the many questions that you answer over and over, including and especially, after the final payment is made. Take the time now to address them for next year.

2. List and answer the most relevant questions. After mapping the customer experience, you will easily have a list of 50 questions that when properly addressed at the right time will start to make your process for creating amazing customer experiences come to life.

Customers want answers, but instead of boring FAQ’s they prefer memorable stories. Curate a list of your best customer success stories. Get them written down and practice sharing them. This can be fun training for the entire staff. Most important is knowing when to use these stories throughout the buyer’s journey.

3. Personalize your business media. The customer experience used to start with a referral, and sometimes still does, but now more than half of those first touches are the result of digital and social media.

Rewrite the About Us, Our Story, and History website pages to make them more personal, relatable and memorable. People first relate to where you went to school, hobbies, interests and family. Industry experience and expertise comes later. december 15

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➾ C US T OMER EXPERIE N C ES

One of the benefits of mapping out the customer experience is that it allows your business to better allocate resources, such that you have the right people doing the right things at the right time. You’ll save time, minimize duplicate efforts, improve communications, and solve potentially chronic problems, such as accelerating cash flow.

4. Complete your personal social media profiles, especially LinkedIn, which is essentially Wikipedia for those who are not famous.

LinkedIn is an opportunity to tell your story on a safe and respected social media channel where many do their research about people and companies. Include a friendly profile photo, and make your Summary more about the benefits of working with you than job skills.

5. Brand the Experience. Choose a couple of words that your business wants to own. Use them to describe your process and how it works to consistently deliver exceptional customer experiences.

How Your Business Benefits

One of the benefits of mapping out the customer experience is that it allows your business to better allocate resources, such that you

have the right people doing the right things at the right time. You’ll save time, minimize duplicate efforts, improve communications, and solve potentially chronic problems, such as accelerating cash flow.

You will also want to hold periodic training sessions so that everyone in your company understands how they can contribute to the customer experience. They will thank you for this, because it empowers them to directly help customers instead of kicking the problem upstairs or out to the field.

JEFF KORHAN, MBA,

is the author of Built-In Social and host of This Old New Business podcast. He helps organizations use media to create exceptional customer experiences that drive business growth in a digital, social and global world. Connect with him on Twitter @jeffkorhan and learn more at JeffKorhan.com.

WELCOME NEW MNLA MEMBERS!

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Building Control Services LLC Charles Norton Chaska, MN, 952-913-7856

InteGrande Mike Harris Spring Lake Park, MN, 612-436-0624

SarTec Corporation Steven Rupp Anoka, MN, 763-421-1072

Dougherty’s Lawn Care Michael Dougherty Robbinsdale, MN, 612-590-0358

Jon Walberg Snowplowing Jonathan Walberg Ham Lake, MN, 763-498-3430

SCP Distributors Kevin Russell Brooklyn Center, MN 763-355-0019

Eric Wahl Snowplowing Eric Wahl Centerville, MN, 651-429-4334

KTI Fencing, Inc. Tim Gillitzer Bloomington, MN, 612-594-7722

Terry Becker Construction LLC Austin Becker Fargo, ND, 701-239-9395

Guideline AMC Curtis Hansen Chaska, MN, 866-443-6677

RJ Marco Jim Lee Little Canada, MN, 651-484-5635

Witzel Bus Service, Inc. Matt Witzel Hibbing, MN, 218-919-6953

MNLA .biz

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➾ MNLA FOUN DATION

Planned Giving Planned giving to the MNLA Foundation is similar to planting a tree today to provide shade and benefits for others in the future.

Dale Bachman

MNLA Foundation Board of Trustees

my mother and father provided our family with wonderful examples of community and green industry support over the years. During their lifetimes, they were actively involved in education, wellness, social service, industry and faith-based causes. At the end of their lives, it was inspirational to see the benefit and appreciation for their planned giving.

Bachman’s involvement with the MNLA Foundation goes back to the beginning, when John R. Johnson created the Johnson Research Fund in 1980. Customers voluntarily contributed ¼ of 1% on purchases made at Johnson Supply, and John R. Johnson’s company matched each contribution dollar for dollar. In 1997, The Johnson Research Fund incorporated and changed its name to the Richard Widmer Education and Research Fund to honor the legacy of Dr. Widmer and his work in floriculture at the University of Minnesota.

Minnesota Distributing & Manufacturing (then MDM Horticultural Supplies) became the second company to collect voluntary contributions from its customers.

In 2003, representatives of the Widmer Fund and the MNLA began discussions of a merger of the Widmer Fund and the conceptual MNLA Foundation. Widmer Fund leadership at that time included John R. Johnson, George Lucht, Troy Lucht, Ron Wagner, Dave Linder, and Todd Bachman. Thanks to the vision of these leaders and those representing MNLA, on January 1, 2004, the Widmer Fund’s incorporation changed to be called the MNLA Foundation and a new Board of Trustees was named reflecting representation from the Association and the previous Widmer Fund board, as well as two representatives from academia.

Today, the assets of the MNLA Foundation have grown to over $600,000, and help to support and communicate industry research, provide scholarships, and to further

career development. The needs in these areas are great and the need to grow the MNLA Foundation is as valid today as it was in 1980. The number of supplier firms collecting voluntary contributions has grown to seven.

We greatly appreciate their willingness to administer and collect contributions and to match contributed funds. We also appreciate the hundreds of firms who are contributing ¼ of 1% on their invoices and also supporting Foundation activities and events throughout the year.

Another way to support the work of the MNLA Foundation is through planned giving. Planned giving describes a wide variety of options that enable you to give to the MNLA Foundation during your lifetime december 15

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➾ M N L A F O U N D AT I O N

and/or after your death, while meeting your current income needs. The typical planned gift is one that will provide charitable benefit upon the donor’s death. Planned gifts are often called legacy gifts because so many are created to make an impact for future generations. Planned gifts can come in many forms; some possibilities include: • Outright gifts as a charitable bequest of any property (real or cash) made by naming the MNLA Foundation as a beneficiary in a person’s will.

The donor can designate a particular asset or a percentage of their estate, as well as a dollar amount.

• Life insurance gifts can include whole life, universal life, and other forms of life insurance policies.

Donors can contribute all or part of a policy to the MNLA Foundation when named as a beneficiary.

Donors need to work with their insurance provider to designate the MNLA Foundation as a beneficiary.

SILENT AUCTION STOP BY THE SILENT AUCTION IN LOBBY E ON WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY DURING EXPO! The silent auction supports the Foundation’s mission to improve the environment by investing in the future of the green industry. Funds raised from the silent auction support the MNLA Foundation scholarship fund. 2016’s silent auction items include: a fire ring kit donated by Borgert Products, a Lladro figurine donated by Nola Wagner of Wagner Greenhouses, a guided fishing trip for up to 4 people with cabin accommodations donated by Wilson’s Nursery and Northway Irrigation, and SO MUCH more!

Bring your checkbook and get ready to win big!

IS YOUR BUSINESS INTERESTED IN DONATING TO THE 2016 SILENT AUCTION? Contact mnla@mnla.biz to for a donation form. Promote your business and/or drive Expo attendees to your booth! All donors will receive recognition online and on their bid sheets. If you are exhibiting at Expo, you are welcome to host your donated item in your booth; we will direct attendees to see the item in your booth.

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• Retirement plans are another easy way for a donor to make a gift to the MNLA Foundation. Through the retirement plan provider, a donor can designate the Foundation as a full or partial beneficiary.

The need and opportunity to grow planned giving to the MNLA Foundation is real. This type of giving can help the Foundation meet long-term goals and help provide donors with responsible financial management in support of purposeful philanthropy. Please join me in considering and making a planned gift to the MNLA Foundation. To learn more about this type of support, contact MNLA Executive Director, Cassie Larson, at 651-633-4987 or cassie@mnla.biz or fill out the donation form found at www.mnla.biz and indicate your interest in an estate gift by checking the box near the bottom.

Thanks for all your support of MNLA and the MNLA Foundation.

Dale L. Bachman Chairman / Chief Executive Officer Bachman’s, Inc.

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âžž B OA RD ELECTION PRO FI L ES

OFFICIAL NOTICE: ANNUAL MEETING ON JANUARY 13 AT CONVENTION CENTER Notice is hereby given that the annual membership meeting of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 13, 2016, at the Minneapolis Convention Center. During the annual meeting, the results of the Board of Directors election will be announced. An electronic ballot was sent the first week in December to the primary contact provided to MNLA by each business member.

Following is a short biography of those persons nominated to be on the ballot.

OFFICER CANDIDATES HERMAN ROERICK

SCOTT FRAMPTON

Herman Roerick is a candidate for election as president of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association. Herman is owner of Central Landscape Supply Inc. in St. Cloud. He is involved with the Central Minnesota Builders Association, the University of Minnesota-Crookston Advisory Committee, and a number of outdoors groups.

He graduated from the University of MinnesotaCrookston in 1984 with an AAS degree in natural resources conservation. He is a recipient of the Alumni of the Year Award from the University of Minnesota-Crookston.

Scott Frampton is a candidate for election as vice president of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association. In 2000, Scott partnered with his longtime friend and coworker to create Landscape Renovations Inc., a landscape design-build, nursery, and maintenance firm in Afton. Scott grew up working in his family’s St. Paul floral, nursery, greenhouse, and landscape operation. At an early age he realized his passion for creating, installing, and maintaining unique landscapes. He completed his course work in Landscape Horticulture at Anoka Hennepin Technical College. Scott is passionate about the future of the landscape and related green industry professions and is active in several industry association initiatives.

Herman has been involved with MNLA since the inception of Central Landscape Supply in 1991. He is a member of the MNLA Membership Committee.

He is a past member of the Landscape Education, Landscape Contractors and Hardscapes Committees. Herman was first elected to the MNLA Board of Directors in 2006; and has served as vice president and secretary-treasurer.

He chaired the former Landscape Contractors Committee and continues to serve on the Government Affairs Committee. He is known regionally as a source for natural stone construction knowledge and has given many lectures on the subject. Scott was first elected to the MNLA Board of Directors in 2008 and has served as secretary-treasurer.

CANDIDATES FOR RE-ELECTION MIKE MCNAMARA

Mike McNamara is a candidate for re-election to the MNLA Board of Directors. He is the owner and president of Hoffman and McNamara, a landscape contracting and wholesale nursery operation based out of Hastings. Mike purchased Hoffman and McNamara from Gary Hoffman and Denny McNamara in 2004. The company specializes in public sector, transportationoriented landscaping, planting freeway intersections, streetscape projects, and parkways. Their wholesale nursery grows B&B and container shade, ornamental, and evergreen

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trees on 120 acres for their own use, plus sells to re-wholesalers, other contractors, and government groups. Mike has a degree in entrepreneurship from the University of St. Thomas.

Mike is a member of the MNLA Foundation Board of Trustees and the Green Industry Leadership Institute Task Team and a past member of the MNLA Landscape Education committee.

He is a past member of the Landscape Contractors Committee.

He was first elected to the MNLA Board of Directors in 2012.

CANDIDATES FOR RE-ELECTION (CONTINUED) JEFF PILLA

NICK SARGENT

Jeff Pilla is a candidate for re-election to the MNLA Board of Directors. Pilla serves as the Director of Retail Stores for Bachman’s, Inc. Bachman’s has several retail locations in the Twin Cities metro area as well as St. Cloud, Minn. and operates indoor and outdoor landscaping divisions, nursery wholesale, greenhouses, and a growing range near Lakeville, Minn. Jeff has an AA degree from Rochester Community College and is an MNLA Certified Professional.

Nick Sargent is a candidate for re-election to the MNLA Board of Directors. He is the owner of Sargent’s Landscape Nursery in Rochester, Minn.

Sargent’s is an 80-plus-year-old family business and currently maintains two retail stores, floral design, a landscape design build department as well as commercial snow and ice management services.

Nick holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management and is an MNLA Certified Professional.

Jeff is a member of the Networking and Government Affairs Committees as well as the MGI Green Industry PAC. He is a past chair of the Garden Center Committee as well as a past member of the Certification Committee. He was first elected to the MNLA Board of Directors in 2014.

Nick is a past chair and current member of the MNLA Networking Committee and has served as a chair of the Sustainable Environment Committee as well as on the Certification Committee. He was first appointed to the MNLA Board of Directors in early 2015 to fill a vacant position at that time.

CANDIDATES FOR DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE JOHN O’REILLY

MATT MALLAS

John O’Reilly is a candidate for election to the MNLA Board of Directors. He is the Vice President of Operations at Otten Bros. Garden Center and Landscaping in Long Lake, Minn. Otten Bros. operates a retail garden center, a secondary seasonal retail location, and a landscape design/ build operation. John has served in many roles for Otten Bros. since he began there in 1992, starting as a seasonal employee, working his way up through to Garden Center Manager. He was promoted to Vice President of Operations (serving both the landscape and retail sides of the company) in 2007. John has a degree in Sociology from Western Illinois University and is an MNLA Certified Professional.

Matt Mallas is a candidate for election to the MNLA Board of Directors. He is the Manager of Purchasing & Logistics for Hedberg Supply, a landscape and masonry supplier based in Plymouth, Minn. Matt serves Hedberg in an executive capacity and also oversees a team of purchasing and dispatch personnel. During his more than 20 years of industry experience, Matt has managed sales and branch offices and has worked on installation. He has been a featured speaker at Hardscape North America and Mid-Atlantic Hardscape trade shows. Matt has an Associate’s degree in Architectural Drafting & Estimating.

John has served on a number of committees with MNLA, including the Garden Center Committee, Education & Certification Committee, and the Communications & Technology Committee. He also serves nationally on the Executive Committee of LANCO, a cooperative buying and networking group for landscape companies.

After participating in and contributing to MNLA events and initiatives for 18 years, Matt was chosen as 2015 Volunteer of the Year for his work with the MNLA Green Industry Leadership Institute. He has served on both the Hardscape Committee and Networking Committee, where he collaborated on the Ideas for Outdoor Living idea book. Matt currently serves as the chair of the Networking Committee.

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