The Scoop Online – July 2014

Spring Trials Report, Pt. I

Also Inside

New Economic Impact Study

Plant of the Month Business Briefs Photo Flashback

A Garden Party to Remember Your exclusive chance to visit an extraordinary place

Vol: 37 No: 7 July 2014 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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To l l f r e e : 1 . 8 5 5 . 8 4 7 . 7 7 6 7

Volume 37 No. 7 July 2014

contents 21

13 36

IN THIS ISSUE 8

Events

10 From the President Home Is Where the Heart Is

50

14 Using Digested Dairy Manure as a Soil Amendment, Pt. II The final part of a report on how digested dairy manure performs for plant production, gardens, and landscapes.   

21 Pruning Clips: Natural Form Dr. Robert Schutzki gives snapshots of the art, science, and practice of pruning natural form.    

29 Fair Market Value In the world of real estate, landscaping gets no respect. 

34 Legislative Wrap-up Tim Power shares updates on MNLA’s top issues of 2014 including B2B sales tax, indemnification, and pollinators. 

13 Plant of the Month Jerod Fehrenbach is wowed by the foliage of Heuchera ‘Southern Comfort’.

26 Out and About Photos from staff visits to member locations.

42 Changes for Driver Medical Cards Patrick McGuiness informs us about a regulation change for commercial drivers.

45 New Economic Impact Study Did you know Minnesota’s green industry has a total impact of $3.5 billion?

54 Business Briefs 58 State Fair Sign Up Marketing space available for MNLA members.

60 Networking News & New MNLA Members

36 California Spring Trials, Pt. I Carolyn Jones writes about her favorite plants from her annual trip to the west coast, and shows us her photos, too.    

50 A Garden Party to Remember An unprecedented opportunity awaits attendees to this year’s MNLA Foundation Garden Party. 

 Landscape & Hardscape Install & Design  Garden Services & Landscape Management  Garden Centers  Growers: Nursery & Greenhouse  Irrigation & Water Management  Arborists & Tree Services  All

The Scoop, July 2014, Issue 7 (USPS # Pending) (ISSN # Pending), is issued monthly, 12 times per year. All original works, articles or formats published in The Scoop are © Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association, 2014, 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. Application to mail at Periodical Postage Prices is Pending at St Paul, MN. 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 be submitted to the publisher at jon@mnla.biz or 651-633-4987. MNLA reserves the right to edit all articles.

july 14

mnla .biz

5

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

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

heidi heiland, mnla-cp, president

Alliance Designer Products ................................................................................ 4 Arborjet ............................................................................................................ 11 Astleford Equipment Co. .................................................................................. 55 Bullis Insurance Agency .................................................................................... 20 Carlin Horticultural Supplies/ProGreen Plus ..................................................... 43 Central Landscape Supply ................................................................................ 20 Cushman Motor Co. Inc ................................................................................... 19 Edney Distributing Co., Inc. ............................................................................. 30

Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens 612-366-7766 • heidi@BloomOnMN.com

Everris ............................................................................................................... 27

herman roerick, vice-president

Frontier Ag & Turf ..............................................................................................59

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

scott frampton, secretary-treasurer

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

debbie lonnee, mnla-cp, past president

Fury Motors ...................................................................................................... 17 Gardenworld Inc. .............................................................................................. 43 GM Fleet and Commercial ................................................................................. 3

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

Gopher State One-Call ..................................................................................... 30

randy berg, mnla-cp

Great Northern Equipment Distributing, Inc. ................................................... 27

Berg’s Nursery, Landscape/Garden Center 507-433-2823 • rberg@smig.net

Haag Companies, Inc. ...................................................................................... 28

tim malooly, cid, clia, cic

Jeff Belzer Chevrolet .................................................................................. 32–33

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

patrick mcguiness

Zlimen & McGuiness PLLC 651-331-6500 • pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com

mike mcnamara

Landscape Alternatives Inc. .............................................................................. 43 Maguire Agency ............................................................................................... 43 Minnesota Propane Association ....................................................................... 17

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

Mississippi Topsoils .......................................................................................... 19

jeff pilla, mnla-cp

MTI Distributing, Inc. ........................................................................................ 20

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

cassie larson, cae

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

Staff Directory

executive director:

Cassie Larson, CAE • cassie@mnla.biz

membership director & trade show manager: Mary Dunn, CEM • mary@mnla.biz

communications director: Jon Horsman • jon@mnla.biz education/cert manager: Susan Flynn • susan@mnla.biz government affairs director: Tim Power • tim@mnla.biz administrative assistant: Jessica Pratt • jessica@mnla.biz accountant: Norman Liston • norman@mnla.biz mnla foundation program director: Jodi Larson • jodi@mnla.biz • www.TheLandLovers.org

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

6

ad list

Volume 37 No. 7 July 2014

➾ section title

Out Back Nursery ..............................................................................................59 Plaisted Companies ............................................................................................ 7 RDO Equipment Co. ........................................................................................ 56 Resultants for Business, Inc. (RFB) .................................................................... 56 Rock Hard Landscape Supply division of Brian’s Lawn & Landscaping, Inc. .....59 Sterling Arbor, LLC. ...........................................................................................54 The Tessman Company .................................................................................... 61 Titan Machinery .................................................................................................. 2 Tri-State Bobcat, Inc. .................................................................................. 12, 44 Truck Utilities & Mfg. Co. .................................................................................. 20 Unilock ..............................................................................................................57

Faith Jensen, Advertising Rep • faith@pierreproductions.com Betsy Pierre, Advertising Mgr • betsy@pierreproductions.com

Versa-Lok Midwest ........................................................................................... 49

legislative affairs consultant: Doug Carnival

Ziegler CAT ......................................................................................... Back Cover

mnla .biz

july 14

➾ calendar

MNLA Event

JUL 17 JUL 17

➾

Bailey Expo St. Paul Baileynurseries.com The annual event is open to Bailey customers and is a full day of activities including facility tours, introduction of new plant varieties, merchandising display ideas and guest speakers.

aug7 UM/MTGF Turf and Grounds Field Day University of Minnesota, St. Paul Campus mtgf.org See research projects conducted by University faculty and staff first hand. Focus areas will include both turfgrass research and landscape research.

➾ 8

mnla .biz

MNLA Event

MNLA Summer Social at Summit Brewery

JUL 22

5–8 pm Summit Brewery St. Paul, MN MNLA.biz Take a break from your busy summer schedule to connect with industry professionals, and enjoy great beer and pizza.

Proceeds from your ticket to this event will benefit the MNLA Foundation Scholarship Program.

Prom Center, Oakdale To register, call: 651-487-3850 Take advantage of show specials. Tessman Company, your “hometown team,” is ready to help you with all of your greenhouse, nursery, garden center and landscaping needs!

Oak Marsh Golf Course, Oakdale, MN MNLA.biz Join your fellow Hackers for Horticulture at the 24th Annual Widmer Golf Tournament! An awards reception will immediately follow the tournament with a chance to win great prizes.

MNLA Event

aug13 Tessman Company Greenhouse Buying Expo

24th Annual Widmer Golf Tournament

➾

aug14 garden center Tour 651-633-4987 MNLA.biz We will tour several MNLA garden center locations in the Twin Cities. Network with other professionals and take away great ideas to implement at your own garden center.

jul24 Horticulture Night at the West Central Research and Outreach Center in Morris wcroc.cfans.umn.edu Several hands-on children’s activities will be available along with Ag Tours, live music, food and vendor booths.

aug14 Carlin Buyerfest 2014 Brooklyn Park, MN buyerfest.com Your one stop source for greenhouses, garden centers, nurseries and landscapers. Opportunity to visit with vendors, ask questions and learn about new products.

Did you miss a webinar? ALL of our webinars are recorded and available for viewing afterwards. Login to MNLA.biz to learn more! july 14

2014 MNLA seminars generously supported by John Deere Landscapes

MNLA Event

aug5 JUL 27 – aug1 Perennial Plant Symposium Perennialplant.org The Perennial Plant Symposium is the only symposium devoted entirely to perennials.

Enjoy learning about and observing perennials, gardens, and production facilities all across the USA and Canada.

➾

MNLA Event

JUL 31

➾ Landscape

Design Tour 651-633-4987 MNLA.biz This year’s tour will highlight outstanding sustainable landscape designs in the metro area.

MNLA Event

Pollinator Symposium Wilder Event Center St. Paul MNLA.biz Join a cadre of green industry experts who will talk about a variety of perspectives related to this important topic. At the end of the day you will have a 360 degree perspective on the pollinator issue.

aug7 Garden Party Wallace Gardens, Medina MNLA.biz The MNLA Foundation Garden Party features an evening of food, fellowship & fundraising, and offers you a oncein-a-lifetime chance to experience Wallace Gardens.

MNLA Event

MNLA Garden at the State Fair 651-633-4987 MNLA.biz Promote your business to the over 1 million people who attend the Fair — register to take a shift in the garden!

➾ MNLA Shootout

IGC Chicago

➾

aug21 – sept1

sept17

aug 19–20

Key:

Event

Chicago, Illinois Igcshow.com IGC Chicago is firmly established as the world’s largest garden center trade show. More IGC pros do their buying at IGC than at any other event because it has hundreds of exhibitors, thousands of new products and scores of educational opportunities.

➾

SHOOTOUT

!

South St. Paul Rod & Gun Club 651-633-4987 MNLA.biz Don’t miss this annual sporting clays charity event that raises money for scholarships! This course runs at a beginner’s level — the focus is on fun. Proceeds benefit the MNLA Foundation Scholarship Fund.

Education ➾

All information on these and other industry events are online at MNLA.biz. july 14

mnla .biz

9

➾ from the PRESIDEN T

Home Is Where The Heart Is Growing up in the downhill ski race community our mantra was “Go big or go home,” which meant only those who gave it their all would be rewarded with a place on the podium. All other competitors might as well go home. I not only lived this metaphor on the hill but also applied it to my professional life.

Heidi Heiland

New Economic Impact Study Spring Trials Report, Pt. I

Also Inside

Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens

Plant of the Month Business Briefs Photo Flashback

only recently have i begun to consider “going home” as today’s mantra and I possibly misunderstood the struggle of “going big.” Going big may be necessary to implement a growth strategy but there is nothing like the known commodity of your home, of your community.

My community has been instrumental in building my business. Family understands my seasonal commitment, friends are loyal clients, and my faith community keeps me grounded. A considerable amount of time is spent with my work family and honoring those relationships is always a priority (easier now with our Company Fun Committee where we hold monthly activities or contests to lighten the load). My MNLA family is another strong link in this chain that I have learned to lean on over time for networking, knowledge and inspiration.

How are you cultivating relationships with your MNLA family? Can “going home” with a vendor or peer help you take that fateful next step and therefore “go big”? How about partnering with another MNLA member to grow your intellectual property or service offerings? Consider affiliating your company with

MNLA’s well received 5,000 sq. ft. State Fair Display Garden. Your company not only receives name recognition, but your staff also gains further practice at their salesmanship skills (who doesn’t love playing stump the gardener  ). See the insert with this issue of the Scoop to sign up today!

Since 2008, our company has designed and managed a 1,000 sq. ft. Adopt-A-Garden in a nearby city where we give back to our local municipality. We install edibles for the neighbors to harvest, we share information with passersby about water or pruning techniques, and we have a yard sign in the garden 365 days a year. This goodwill effort, hands down, has been the best marketing we have ever done in 35 years! Unique marketing with your community is the best investment.

Home is where the heart is! Contact me directly to brainstorm ways the MNLA can become a bigger part of your community.

MNLA President Heidi Heiland

can be reached at:

612.366.7766 or Heidi@BloomOnMN.com

A GArden PArty to reMeMBer Your exclusive chance to visit an extraordinary place

Vol: 37 No: 7 July 2014

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

on the cover

Hidden away in the hills/prairies of Medina lies Wallace Gardens, a private garden that few have seen before. Created similarly to those found in countries like Italy, France and England, this garden’s intrigue lies in the concept of a division into “garden rooms“, each with its own theme. Of the sixty American gardens listed in the international best seller, “1001 Gardens You Must See Before You Die,” this is the only one privately supported and managed, and few have been invited inside. Get a glimpse on the DVD included with this month’s Scoop, plus see page 50 for more details. Tickets may be purchased online or by using the ticket form enclosed.

10

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IntroducIng

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• Protects transplants from drought stress & shock • Feeds roots all season long

find a distributor: www.arborjet.com/distributor Visit www.arborjet.com or call 781.935.9070.

➾ plant of the month

plant month of

the

Heuchera ‘Southern Comfort’ USPP 20364 This month I wanted to branch out from my normally drab and maybe sometimes boring staples of the perennial world. There are some pretty fantastic introductions every year and after a few winters of testing I found a couple that I think should and will endure. This month I recommend that you take a look at Heuchera ‘Southern Comfort’.

Bah, you say, just another crazy-colored coral bells that, if it does not rot out during a wet streak in the summer, will most assuredly crash and burn in the winter.

Au contraire, don’t be so quick to judge.

can handle full hot sun provided that it gets adequate water, but also does well in nearly half a day of shade.

‘Southern Comfort’ has been in the market and widely available for around five years and has seen great results in gardens since its introduction. It has a preference for soil that is well-drained but not too dry. If you do not carefully monitor soil moisture and it dries out excessively, the foliage will exhibit permanent damage. That being said though, this plant is not a water hog at all. It grows rapidly in spring, jumping quickly out of dormancy and then settles into a more subdued growth pattern. It

So now that the boring technical stuff is over, what exactly is the attraction? The foliage. My goodness, the foliage is awesome. The leaves are a great fall orange to peach color painted onto great big flowing leaves. They grow to be taller than most coral bells and the leaves are the largest I have seen on any Heuchera.

They give a great contrast in color in darker areas of your garden and complement plants like daylilies, heucherellas, and even hostas in spectacular fashion.

A great reason to think of using this perennial on a more frequent basis is its disease resistance. I am finding increasingly that some of the newer coral bells are much more susceptible to fungi that are both foliar and systemic in the plant’s vascular system. I have yet to see any such issues with our crops of ‘Southern Comfort’ over the last few years.

A bonus feature with ‘Southern Comfort’ is its unique show of color in windier conditions. The leaves have great color on top but the bottoms are a brilliant pink color, and are held high up on stems that will flow when the wind blows, almost like a waving hand. The contrast between the front and back of the leaves will get noticed for sure. The foliage color goes through a transformation both in the spring and fall as temperatures change.

It will darken considerably to noticeably sharper tones of pinks and peaches. The foliage is semi-evergreen through the winter but usually sheds last year’s leaves in the spring favoring some new growth.

So, as summer is well into high gear and the fall is sadly on the horizon, take a long look at Heuchera ‘Southern Comfort’ for your gardens. It has stood the test of time so far and I expect it will to continue to grow in popularity. Who knows, maybe you will find a spot for it in your fall pots!

Jerod Fehrenbach of Twin Orchards Nursery can be reached at jfehren@aol.com.

Photo courtesy of Terra Nova® Nurseries, Inc. www.terranovanurseries.com

july 14

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PART TWO: Utilization of

Digested Dairy Manure

for Plant Production, Gardens and Landscapes The amendment of soils and growing media to enhance plant growth has been a long-standing practice in the horticultural and agricultural industries. These amendments come from many and varied sources and can have just as many and varied effects and results in improving plant growth. The purpose of this research is to evaluate one of these many amendments as to its potential to be used as a component in container growing media and as an amendment to garden and landscape soils.

Bert T. Swanson and Steven R. Poppe

Figure 7. Effect of Dairy Manure and Fertilizer on the quality of Juniperus plants. Data are averaged over all parameters not specified.

Juniperus

Figure 8. Juniperus plants growing in all 20 treatments of Dairy Manure-amended growing media.

The superior performance of the Nine-month Fertilizer was pronounced and consistent throughout the season in providing quality Juniperus plants (Figure 7). For Juniperus plants, the NCDDM Medium (QR 85) provided the highest quality plants over the CDDM Medium (QR 81) and over the 0% DM Medium (QR 79).

The 25% DM Medium provided the highest quality plants (QR 84), and the 15% DM provided the second highest quality plants (QR 83), both of which were higher than the 0% DM plants at QR 79.

The plants were healthy and vigorous in all growing media (Figure 8).

In comparison of all species, Juniperus was the only species wherein the 0% DM plants (QR 78.8) were lower in Plant Quality than plants in media containing DM. It was also the only species wherein the NCDDM plants (QR 85.2) were of higher quality than the CDDM plants (QR 81.5) and the 0% DM plants (QR 78.8).

Petunia quality declined slightly from 0% DM (QR 78.8) to 15% DM (QR 77.3) to 25% DM (QR 75.3). Salvia had the largest decrease in Plant Quality from 0% DM (QR 86.8) to 15% DM (QR 82.0) to 25% DM (QR 82.1), but no difference exists between the 15% DM and 25% DM. Spiraea quality declined just slightly from 0% DM (QR 89.8) to 15% DM (QR 87.9), but increased with 25% DM (QR 89.9). Juniperus improved in Plant Quality with the addition of, and with an increased volume of DM, as follows: 0% DM (QR 78.8), 15% DM (QR 82.6) and 25% DM (QR 84.1) (Figure 9). july 14

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15

âžž digested dairy manure : PART TWo

Figure 9. Effect of percent Dairy Manure on quality of four plant species averaged over all parameters not specified.

Figure 10. Petunia roots in a Commercial Container Growers Medium + 25% Non-Composted Digested Dairy Manure with Harrell’s 19-5-10, 9-month fertilizer.

Container Root Evaluations

The 0% DM Medium with the Six-month Fertilizer (QR 5.6) provided the lowest Root Quality on Petunia plants, and the 15% DM Medium with the Nine-month Fertilizer (QR 7.0), provided the best Root Quality. This trend continued in the final evaluation: 0% DM (QR 6.1), 15% DM (QR 6.9) and 25% DM (QR 6.5).

The presence of DM, and higher quantities of DM, had a slightly positive effect on Root Quality in Petunia plants.

Salvia plant roots were excellent in the CGHGM Base with the Six-month Fertilizer and the CGHGM 15 NCDDM with Six-month Fertilizer. Root Quality of Salvia was slightly reduced by the presence and quantity of DM in the growing medium, however, the plants were still healthy and of salable quality.

Spiraea root system differences were mainly due to a difference in the quantity of side roots as all plants had good to excellent bottom 16

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roots. Spiraea Root Quality in the NCDDM Medium (QR 7.1) was better than the CD DM Medium (QR 6.6) Root Quality, but both were lower than the 0% DM Medium (QR 7.5) Root Quality.

This same trend existed for percent DM as follows: 0% DM (QR 7.5), 15% DM (QR 7.0), and 25% DM (QR 6.7). Although a slight reduction in Root Quality occurred relative to the presence and quantity of DM in the growing medium, this effect did not transfer to foliar quality of the plants which were healthy and vigorous.

Juniperus Root Quality in the Nine-month Fertilizer in the 15% DM medium (QR 5.7) and 25% DM Medium (QR 5.6) were both lower than the 0% DM Medium (QR 7.0). The NCDDM Medium (QR 6.8) had the highest Juniperus Quality Rating over the 0% DM Medium (QR 6.2) and the CDDM Medium (QR 4.8). The 0% DM Medium provided the better Root Quality, but little difference exists among the three comparisons: 0% DM Medium (6.2), 15% DM Medium (5.9) and 25% DM Medium (5.7). Thus, the DM provided good quality root growth on Juniperus plants. All four species had root systems in all treatments that produced and sustained healthy and quality plants (Figure 10).

Ground Bed Evaluations

The intent to evaluate the DM incorporated into Ground Beds was to reach the outside limit of DM volume incorporation. This was reached with the 8-inch DM plots on two accounts: it was difficult to incorporate eight inches of DM into the soil, particularly with a very moist soil and in a small plot. In addition, eight inches of DM incorporated into the soil can be detrimental to Plant Quality of Petunia, Salvia, and Spiraea and just slightly to Juniperus. Two inches of DM with a maximum of four inches of DM can be incorporated thoroughly into the soil.

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âžž di gested dairy ma n ur e : PART T Wo

Figure 11. Overall comparison of Dairy Manure on plant quality when incorporated into growing medium at rates of 0%, 15% and 25%.

Data are averaged over all parameters not specified.

Optimum timing of incorporation would be one year prior to planting or at minimum, incorporate the DM in the fall before next spring’s planting. As with any soil amendment, proper cultural practices would include the following: incorporate an amendment six to twelve months prior to planting; insure thorough and complete incorporation; insure thorough leaching and watering at planting time, and insure proper moisture maintenance throughout the season. The addition of Ammonium Sulfate fertilizer to lower the pH, and Iron Sulfate or Iron Chelate to prevent Iron Chlorosis would also provide additional options for obtaining good Plant Quality in high pH growing substrates. The improvement of Plant Quality observed in the Ground Beds during the second year is critical as this indicates that there is no long lasting detrimental effect of the high levels of DM. Summary and Conclusions of the Overall Effect of Dairy Manure as a Growing Medium Amendment

Figure 12. Overall comparison of plant quality with and without Dairy Manure incorporated into the growing medium. Data are averaged over all parameters not specified

18

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july 14

Averaged over all species, only one foliar Quality Rating Unit difference exists among 0% DM (QR 83.5), 15% DM (QR 82.5) and 25%DM (QR 82.8) Media (Figure 11). In the final comparison over all experimental parameters, less than one Quality Rating Unit exists between 15% DM Medium (QR 82.5) and 25% DM Medium (QR 82.8).

In the final comparison with or without DM over all parameters including species, Plant Quality is essentially the same without DM (QR 83.5) and with DM (QR 82.7) (Figure 12). This is significant in light of the high Soluble Salts and high pH of the DM which would normally be detrimental to plant growth. The addition of DM to container growing media provided foliar plant growth that is comparable to that produced in high quality Commercial Container Growing Medium and Commercial Greenhouse Growing

Medium throughout the two-year period of this research.

In the overall utilization of this DM product, the rate of incorporation into any substrate is a key factor. As a component of a growing medium, 25% DM was at or beyond the optimum rate for this particular product for three of the four species tested. It is possible to use 25% DM in a container medium, however, attention must be paid to immediate leaching of the medium, and some pH adjustment may be necessary at higher rates of incorporation. Even though a “Composted” version of the DM was used in this research, it did not differ greatly from the parent source material, therefore, a complete composting of this DM may also improve its performance as a growing medium component. The NCDDM was very productive at 15%. With proper cultural practices, this Riverview Farms Digested Dairy Manure has the potential to grow excellent quality plants in commercial container production, in gardens, and in the Landscape.

As with any development of a growing medium, all aspects of each component must be fully analyzed and then mixed at the appropriate ratio. Two or three ratios should be analyzed and examined on a smaller basis, but with several species of plants. Pay attention to detail and provide the best growing and management practices possible in each and every process of plant growth and production. Insure that all aspects are appropriate and in fact work at your specific site and under your specific growing conditions.

Your One Tractor Solution

Acknowledgments: Riverview Farms, LLC, Hancock, MN Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI), University of Minnesota, Waseca, MN West Central Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota-Morris, Morris, MN Bailey Nurseries, Inc., St. Paul, MN

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One Tractor, Over 30 Commercial Grade Attachments:

Ted Swanson, Woodbury, MN Harrell’s Fertilizer, LLC, Sylacauga, AL Mississippi Topsoils, Inc., Cold Spring, MN Bert T. Swanson, II, Ph.D., is President of Swanson’s Nursery Consulting, Inc., 35423 County Highway 46, Park Rapids, MN 56470.

Steven R. Poppe, is a Horticulture Scientist at West Central Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota-Morris, 46352 State Highway #329, Morris, MN 56267.

Schedule a Ventrac Demo with:

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Pruning Clips:

Snapshots of the Art, Science and Practice of Pruning Natural Form Pruning is simply a method of modifying plant growth to enhance health, vigor and/ or performance for a given purpose. It can be defined by both artistic and scientific principles, however, the methods used and techniques applied are governed by the purpose that the plant serves.

Robert E. Schutzki, Department of Horticulture | Michigan State University The Pruning Clips Series was originally published in the Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association’s bimonthly magazine The Michigan Landscape.

âžž pru nin g clips

Figure 1: American Elm

Figure 2: Weeping Higan Cherry

Whatever the purpose or intended use, pruning is a management technique that aids in achieving our objectives. Every cut initiates a response; every cut leads to a set of consequences. Mastering the art and science of “cutting� begins with revisiting natural form.

Figure 4: Doublefile Viburnum

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Figure 3: Western Arborvitae

P

runing is simply a method of modifying plant growth to enhance health, vigor and/or performance for a given purpose. It can be defined by both artistic and scientific principles, however, the methods used and techniques applied are governed by the purpose that the plant serves. For example, pruning practice at seedling and propagation nurseries focuses on initial growth and development with structural framework left to a container or field production nursery. Managing plants in the landscape is guided by the design intent and function that each plant or plant mass serves in contributing to overall plant health, aesthetic appeal and functions of the landscape. Commercial horticulture operations may focus on production of food, fiber, flowers, and foliage where pruning is performed to enhance the development of a specific plant part.

Figure 5: Sea Green Juniper

Figure 6: Annabelle Hydrangea

Figure 7: Excurrent Crown Type

Whatever the purpose or intended use, pruning is a management technique that aids in achieving our objectives. Every cut initiates a response; every cut leads to a set of consequences. Mastering the art and science of “cutting” begins with revisiting natural form.

The mention of natural form brings to mind distinct images; the vase-shaped crown of American elm (Fig. 1), graceful cascading branches of Weeping Higan cherry (Fig. 2) or the stately conical form of evergreen trees (Fig. 3). Shrub forms are equally distinct as noted in the horizontal layers of Doublefile viburnum (Fig. 4), the outward spreading branches of Sea Green juniper (Fig. 5) and the flowered outline of Annabelle hydrangea (Fig. 6). Form defines mass and the space that the plant will naturally take up as it matures.

Characteristic forms of our woody landscape plants are diverse and often described as broad, rounded, oval, pyramidal, upright, arching, spreading, columnar, fastigiate, weeping, irregular, prostrate and creeping. Each form is built from a DNA blueprint governing buds, branches, and roots. This genetic blueprint directs size, habit, bud orientation, branch patterns and stem elongation with some help from environmental conditions. The first step in mastering the science of pruning is to examine natural form and decipher what goes into its development.

Natural form on most woody landscape plants can be described by two crown types, excurrent and decurrent. Excurrent, common on coniferous trees, exhibits a strong central leader (Fig. 7). Terminal shoots outgrow laterals during the growing season giving rise to a conical shape (Fig. 8). Decurrent crowns exhibit a more diffuse branching pattern that contributes to a spreading-rounded habit (Fig. 9). Terminal growth suppresses lateral bud expansion during its initial growing season, however, lateral bud breaks from previous seasons’ growth during the second season produce shoots that will

Figure 8: Excurrent Form

Figure 9: Decurrent Crown Type

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âžž pru nin g clips

Figure 10: Decurrent Form

Figure 11: Mounded Shrub

Figure 12: Columnar Tree

Figure 13: Branch Origin on Columnar Plants

Figure 14: Branch or Crown Density

Figure 15: Branch Density

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Figure 16: Overlapping Branches

Figure 17: Seasonal Stem Elongation and Internode Length

often grow as long as terminals, giving rise to a rounded shape (Fig. 10). Knowing the natural form of the plant and whether its shape stems from excurrent or decurrent growth is useful in developing pruning strategies.

Natural form rises from leaf and bud arrangement. The arrangement of leaves and buds on a stem is called phyllotaxy. Phyllotaxy can be classified as opposite (two buds opposite each other on the stem), alternate (one bud at each node, spiraling up the stem) or whorled (three buds encircling the stem at the same location). Phyllotaxy defines the location of new shoots and subsequent branching patterns. It dictates where branches originate, their positioning in the crown and the ultimate branch density. Pruning often begins with an examination of where branches originate. For example, refer to the graphic representation of a mounded shrub (Fig. 11).

Branches originate from the base of the plant and radiate upwards at differing lengths to form the outline. Lateral branches rise at various heights contributing to and reinforcing the overall shape. Pruning in this case may require thinning branches at the base rather than heading cuts in the upper crown. On a columnar or fastigiate plant (Fig. 12), branches originating from the central trunk may influence overall shape several feet above its origin. Pruning this type of plant requires thoughtful cuts to avoid creating holes or distorting the upper portions of the plant (Fig. 13).

Branch or crown density is another factor taken into consideration when beginning to prune (Fig. 14). Where branches occur, how close they are together and whether they intertwine or overlap contribute to density. Plants left unpruned result in a mess that can have a negative impact on leaf and flower bud development along with promoting conditions favored by insects or diseases (Fig. 15).

Intertwining or overlapping branches can be a particular problem on weeping plants (Fig. 16) leading to leafless interior branches that decline and eventually die. Light is important for bud development giving rise to leaves, branches, flowers and fruit. The interrelationship among branches and excessive density can have a negative influence on future bud development.

Finally, let’s consider seasonal stem elongation and internode length as it relates to natural form. Seasonal stem elongation and internode length (the distance between two buds) is a measure of plant vigor (Fig.17). Although genetics plays a part, the actual shoot length that a plant produces in a particular season is related to the growing conditions at the time that growth is occurring. Seasonal growth rate and its contribution to branching patterns will be another important factor when developing a pruning strategy.

Pruning is defined by both artistic and scientific principles. What we see and consequently cut when pruning is results from the interaction of genetics and environmental conditions. Every cut initiates a response; every cut leads to a set of consequences. Mastering the art and science of pruning begins with developing an understanding of natural form and observing overall plant shapes, phyllotaxy, branching patterns, stem elongation and internode length out in the field. Late winter and early spring is a great time to examine natural form and decipher what goes into its development.

Dr. Robert Schutzki is a Professor in the Department of Horticulture at MSU. His research interests include plant exploration, plant evaluation, and landscape development. All photos used in this article are used by permission of Robert Schutzki and may not be reused in any way without express written permission.

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➾ out & about

&

AN INITIATIVE OF THE MNLA MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE IS TO STAY IN TOUCH AND THANK MEMBERS WITH OCCASIONAL VISITS.

MNLA Membership Director Mary Dunn presents Dick Reineck of Fury Motors with a VISA gift card thanks to his success in the Member-Get-a-Member campaign.

Bill Mielke, Waconia Tree Farms

It was great to see MNLA member garden centers busy the Friday before Memorial Day weekend 

Highland Nursery in St. Paul

Gertens in Inver Grove Heights.

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Leitners in St. Paul.

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Scott Grams | Illinois Landscape Contractors Association (ILCA) Reprinted with permission of The Landscape Contractor and ILCA

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2/25/14 8:16 AM

n the world of real estate, landscaping gets no respect. Most prospective homebuyers look for three different elements when purchasing a new home: location, structure, and lot. The location is the geographic area where the property is situated, the structure is the physical and connected space, and the lot is the surrounding premises. Many buyers are willing to sacrifice a little on one of the items, sometimes two, in order to get the third.

The ideal home would bull’s-eye all three.

Once an offer is made and accepted, a strange phenomenon occurs. The location and structure take center stage while the lot fades into obscurity. The property is appraised and inspected. Hours of time and analysis are spent on dozens of little details that comprise the appraised value. Home inspectors check every outlet and gutter. They develop complex reports on every construction detail that could negatively impact the house over time. Yet, the third leg of the stool, the health of the lot becomes an afterthought. What was once central to the reason the buyer purchased the home has now become an irrelevant backdrop.

Even stranger is that the lot’s landscaping will dominate hundreds of hours of the homeowner’s time and thousands of dollars over the lifespan of the house. A homeowner may replace an appliance once, where he will mow, water, prune, plant, mulch, deadhead, remove, and clean-up hundreds of times over 20-years of home ownership. Weekends are spent in the yard, not waxing and buffing the sump-pump.

Undoubtedly, there is a significant disconnect when it comes to the value of landscaping. In economics, value is the maximum amount of money one is willing to pay for a good or service. Most homeowners who contract with a professional landscape company are stunned at the cost of landscaping. A high quality landscape job is often thousands of dollars more than most consumers expected to pay for it. Contractors have become smarter over time and now offer phased designs and diversity of materials in order to decrease the cost of the job and keep the customer on the hook. Regardless, that first estimate will always drop a homeowner’s jaw.

Conversely, I’ve never met a landscape contractor who feels his or her services are properly valued. Most in the industry feel the consumer undervalues what contractors

produce. Contractors may feel their services are priced correctly in the market but that is a far cry from being properly valued. Most feel consumers don’t properly value the inputs and the eventual output. Clients talk of price, landscape professionals talk of value; they pass each other like ships in the night.

That is not a good place for the green industry to be on the spectrum.

When the service provider and the service recipient are so far apart on the price/value equation, you often see major variations and inconsistencies in how prices are applied. Isn’t that a fancy way of describing the world all landscape contractors operate in? The free market reigns supreme. Landscape value is created in the mean streets.

Like a Persian bazaar, landscape professionals and clients negotiate based on this value vs. price see-saw. It seems like it has always been this way, but the question remains, does it have to remain this way?

What if landscaping had a tether? What if there was a methodology to determine the true value of landscaping and that value was infused into the cost of the house? What if we determined landscape value like we determine home values — through comps? What if the price of a landscaped 1/2 acre in Winnetka was priced based on 10 surrounding 1/2 acres in Winnetka? Better yet — what if we simply made landscaping part of the appraised value of the property? What if landscaping became the new granite countertops and stainless steel?

The green industry can develop hundreds of complex theories on why we undervalue landscaping; low barriers to entry into the profession, man’s increasing distance from nature, limited seasonal enjoyment of the end product, luxury versus necessity, etc.

I posit a different theory. Society undervalues landscaping because we have no reified methodology to use in order to value landscaping.

We don’t value landscaping because we are not incentivized to value landscaping. We undervalue landscaping because the gatekeepers of home values — the real estate appraisers — undervalue landscaping.

It is not that society figuratively doesn’t place a value on what landscape professionals’ produce; it is that society literally doesn’t place a value on what landscape professionals’ produce.

Landscaping may be held back by the seven most important pieces of paper in real estate. Most laymen have no idea what form 1004URAR is, but it impacts anyone who has ever purchased, sold, or mortgaged a house. 1004 is the Uniform Residential Appraisal Report (URAR). This report is for a single family home appraisal with an interior and exterior inspection.

1004 is what property appraisers use to determine the fair market value of a house. Those forms can then feed the multiple listing service or MLS which is the central nervous system of the real estate market.

1004 doesn’t just undervalue landscaping, it acts as if it doesn’t exist.

1004 is available online through a simple Google search. You can read the entire form, but simply hit Ctrl+F, put “landscape” into the find box and hit search. You will find zero hits. Yet look at all the data the form does capture: neighborhood characteristics, utilities, foundation, window screens, woodstoves, and attic stairs; the list goes on and on.

This is a problem for an industry that wants others to value what it produces. All real estate appraisers agree that landscaping improves property values. They agree that there is a concept called curb appeal and that curb appeal sells houses. The problem the landscape

industry faces is not that real estate appraisers don’t appreciate a well-landscaped property, it’s that they aren’t asked to monetize a well landscaped property. Curb appeal is a nebulous concept, not a reified methodology. Curb appeal can mean everything from $100,000 in landscaping, to a flag pole, to a doggie-door to a dog lover.

The problem is that real estate appraisers don’t have a methodology for establishing curb appeal. As one real estate appraiser on the internet glibly points out, “Show me on the MLS where I can estimate curb appeal. I can’t value what I can’t measure.” You can’t search on the MLS for criteria that is not there.

A real estate appraiser is consumed with the condition of the home. Appraisers want to know the condition of the structure — the guts. Landscaping is viewed as temporary and changeable. In the mind of the appraiser, it is much easier to pull out five elms than five single-paned windows. My problem with that line of thinking is that single-family homeowners don’t have assessments. The price of the elm and the price of the windows could be the same. However, one is valued by the appraiser more than the other. Where the appraiser and the inspector see thin air, homeowners see emerald ash borer, Dutch elm, creeping charlie, grubs, standing water, and poor grading. These are real threats that cost real money.

Property inspectors only complicate the problem. Rarely does a property inspector spend any time on the landscaping. This make sense in a modestly landscaped yard, but what about one with irrigation, seat walls, vertical columns, or hazard trees. Those repairs can cost thousands of dollars and most homeowners don’t even get a fair warning. In fact, many property inspectors view landscaping as a threat. Landscaping can mean seepage, moisture collection, runoff complications, and tree roots infiltrating pipes. Property inspectors either view landscaping as neutral or, at worst, a threat to structure.

If the house is the patient, and the property inspector the doctor, landscaping is as important to him as the color pants the patient is wearing on the day of the physical.

In a way, landscaping is succeeding in spite of the tremendous odds stacked against it. The industry is in a growth cycle and Americans shell out billions for professional and personal landscaping. There is very little ROI other than pure enjoyment. Can you imagine how this industry could skyrocket if landscape improvements were automatically reflected in a home’s bottom line?

I am not going to pretend to have an answer. Real estate appraisal and property inspection is serious business with pages of statutory guidance and the constant threat of a legal challenge. I assume every industry would love to have their work legitimized from alarm system companies to home theater installers. I don’t have an answer for getting landscaping onto the 1004URAR other than whiteout and a typewriter.

Yet I hate when writers ask a bunch of questions and don’t provide any answers. So here is my position. Landscaping is being asked to take on more and more responsibility that was once the responsibility of the home. It is solving drainage issues. It is harvesting rainwater.

It is saving roof membranes and tuck-pointing. It is more than pretty flowers and cantankerous roots. I think real estate needs to take continued on page 35

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➾ gove rn men t affa i r s

Legislative Wrap-Up for 2014 The Minnesota Legislature completed its business for the year on Friday, May 16, 2014, finishing either one of the most productive sessions in years or a biennium with the highest spending increase in years, depending on your political perspective.

Tim Power

MNLA Government Affairs Director

increases in the minimum wage, $1B in state bonding including a new Senate office building, funding for the completion of a Missouri-River-to SW-Minnesota water pipeline, $550M in tax cuts and medical marijuana were some of the major issues resolved. The legislature will re-convene on Tuesday, January 6, 2015, following November’s mid-term elections.

B2B Sales Tax Repeal

News of the state’s $1.2 billion surplus last November precipitated much speculation on how that surplus would be used by the Legislature. MNLA collaborated in a Minnesota Chamber of Commerce-led coalition called United for Jobs MN that successfully lobbied to have last year’s three business-to-business (B2B) sales taxes repealed by the Legislature. That repeal came about in late March this year, in time to forestall the implementation of the sales tax on third-party business warehousing scheduled for April 1st. Of greater importance to many MNLA members, the sales tax on business equipment repair labor was repealed. However, that repeal became effective March 31, 2014, so sales taxes paid on equipment repair labor between July 1, 2013 and March 31, 2014 will not be refunded.

The B2B sales tax repeal allowed the Minnesota Department of Revenue (DOR) to finalize and publish long-awaited sales tax fact sheets on landscaping, splitting one formerly-confusing publication into two separate fact sheets. DOR Fact Sheet 121A — Lawn and Garden Maintenance, Tree and Shrub Service deals with largelytaxable maintenance services, while Fact Sheet 121B — Landscaping Construction Contracts deals mostly 34

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with nontaxable improvements to real property. Two significant changes have been instituted: 1) the planting of perennials joins the planting of woody plants as services that are always considered improvements to real property and therefore nontaxable; and 2) installation and maintenance of underground irrigation systems and other listed examples of construction contracts are nontaxable. Though much improved, these fact sheets describe processes that require significant attention to detail. For further information on these and other DOR fact sheets, see http://www.revenue.state.mn.us/businesses/ sut/Pages/fact_sheets.aspx.

Indemnification

The Legislature passed an important indemnification bill in 2013, closing a loophole that general contractors had been using in their contracts to require their subcontractors to provide insurance not only for their own actions and inactions, but also for those of the general contractor and project owners. The 2013 legislation, opposed by the Associated General Contractors of Minnesota (AGC), was a major victory for subcontractors, but general contractors soon started changing their contracts in such a way that their subs would be required to defend the generals in court, even if they could no longer be required to insure them. This situation precipitated clean-up legislation in 2014, sponsored by the Minnesota Subcontractors Association (MSA) and supported by MNLA. AGC again opposed the MSA bill and kept the House bill bottled up in committee. In April 2014, Senator Vicki Jensen (D-Owatonna) successfully amended a separate Senate

bill on indemnification reform for design professionals by adding the House MSA language to the design professionals’ bill. After lengthy discussion in a House-Senate conference committee, AGC managed to convince all House conferees that it would be risky to attach the AGC-opposed MSA language to the already-approved language that provided long-sought indemnification reform to design professionals, thus ending this effort to add the MSA language.

Subcontractors who are 1) forced to sign construction contracts with this “duty to defend” language; and 2) later become involved in legal action because of it, are urged to contact MNLA to provide details that could assist us in future indemnification reform efforts.

MSA also drafted and MNLA supported retainage legislation in 2014 that would have clarified restrictions and timing for when general contractors must pay their subcontractors after substantial completion of construction projects. AGC was able to keep this bill from being heard in committee, thus forestalling action on another of MNLA’s legislative priorities.

Pollinators

Two significant pollinator bills passed the 2014 Legislature, and a third bill did not receive a hearing. MNLA and traditional ag groups opposed and stopped a preemption bill that would have granted cities of the first order (Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington and Duluth) the right to preempt state pesticide laws with more stringent measures.

The first passed bill, the Bee Death Compensation Bill, created a mechanism and funding for beekeepers whose bees are killed by pesticides to apply to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) for compensation. This bill was modeled on the DNR process used by livestock owners who suffer livestock losses due to wolf depredation.

MNLA did not oppose this bill, though we lobbied unsuccessfully to include a requirement that beekeepers who apply for compensation must have their hives registered with MDA in order to be eligible.

MNLA members who employ licensed pesticide applicators should be aware that applications not in compliance with the pesticide label that kill bees may render them liable for compensation through MDA to the affected beekeeper. This bill creates a mechanism for MDA to convene panels of experts to advise MDA on specific bee kills. MDA must then make a determination as to whether 1) the bee kill was caused by acute pesticide poisoning, 2) whether the pesticide applicator can be determined, and 3) whether the pesticide applicator applied the pesticide product in a manner consistent with the product’s label. Responsible pesticide applicators who apply pesticides in accordance with the pesticide label would not be held liable for compensation.

The second pollinator bill to pass the Minnesota Legislature this year was the Pollinator Lethal Insecticide Bill. This bill amends Minnesota’s Nursery Law (MS 18H) by adding a paragraph in the truth-in-labeling section, effective July 1, 2014, as follows: A person may not label or advertise an annual plant, bedding plant or other plant, plant material, or nursery stock as beneficial to pollinators if it has been treated with and has a detectable level of a systemic insecticide that has a pollinator protection box on the label, or a pollinator, or bee, or honey bee precautionary statement in the environmental hazards section of the product label.

This MNLA-supported language was developed by MDA’s Pesticide & Fertilizer Management Division and refers to insecticides that have an EPA-mandated “bee box” on their product labels, prohibiting their use where bees are present. Currently, these bee advisories apply only to a few neonicotinoid insecticide products.

In compromise language between House and Senate versions, the bill also added a definition for the term “Pollinator Lethal Insecticide” to the definitions section of the Nursery Law, which definition includes but is not limited to neonicotinoid insecticides. MNLA opposed the inclusion of this inaccurate language in the bill. The good news for MNLA members is that the compromise House/Senate language does not cite the term “pollinator lethal insecticide” in the action section of the bill.

MNLA Government Affairs Committee

MNLA follows legislative issues, along with regulatory issues, through its Government Affairs Committee and Government Affairs team. Committee chair Tim Malooly leads an outstanding group of MNLA volunteer members in considering and recommending policy changes to the MNLA Board. Augmenting the Government Affairs Committee, Executive Director Cassie Larson hired Tim Power as MNLA’s first full-time Government Affairs Director.

Finally, and most importantly during the legislative session, MNLA contracts with lobbyist Doug Carnival of the McGrann Shea Carnival Straughn & Lamb law firm. Thanks, Doug, for all your hard work on MNLA’s behalf.

MNLA Government Affairs Director Tim Power can

be reached at:

tim@mnla.biz.

continued from page 31

another long look at the value of landscaping and not simply lump the green industry into curb appeal. Inspectors may view landscaping as a threat, well landscape contractors view blasting homes to the property line as a threat too. These 1/8 acre McMansions impact how well a landscape can perform. We used to be your problem, well, you evened the score.

In the end, maybe I am overblowing the situation. Maybe a tiny tick box that asks a qualitative question about the landscape would get lost on 1004URAR. Maybe people would not search the MLS for homes with “excellent landscaping.” After all, it’s just a form.

Then again, when the federal government created the Child Tax Credit to offer tax deductions for children, the U.S. birth rate soared. We value what we can monetize, even human life. Maybe all the landscape industry needs is for appraisers to finally acknowledge our existence among the cosmos, or, even better, a little checkbox on 1004URAR. is Executive Director of the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association (ILCA) and can be reached at sgrams@ilca.net.

Scott Grams

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âžž sp r in g trials report

2014 california

Spring Trials Re

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Carolyn Jones | BFG Plant Connection

port: Part I Welcome to the 2014 California Spring Trials Report! It’s time to look at new varieties for 2015! California Spring Trials is the annual open house hosted by breeders and propagators to show off what they do best…create new varieties! In addition, they show off some great ideas for marketing and merchandising. There’s a lot to look at this year and the new plants are sure to get you excited for the coming season.

We’ll run through the stops I visited, starting in Gilroy, near San Jose and finishing in Ventura.

The route was shortened this year, as the companies down in the San Diego area moved their locations north. Once again, this review will be in two parts, so please remember to check out the August Scoop as well. I know you’ll see some things you like!

< Salmon Ray™ petunia – A near-orange petunia with a lighter center giving it the look of a “morn” type. Mounding habit.

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➾ sp r in g trialS report

American Takii  African Sunset™ F1 petunia – A 2014 AAS winner, this is the first orange-hued petunia from seed. Mounding habit and excellent vigor! (Yes, it seems orange is still a hot color!)

Danziger > Cascadias™ Autumn Mystery petunia – A lovely new petunia that has the black gene. Shades of mocha and purple with a creamy yellow background.

Sallyfun™ Deep Ocean salvia – A farinacea type salvia with dark blue flowers.

These are vigorous plants that work well in containers for height and color. Six weeks from liner to bloom!

Jaldety/Cohen > Gazebra Red gazania – A large-flowered vegetative gazania with variegated foliage.

Orange-red flowers with a large center. Definitely new and unusual! (from Jaldety) Happy Magic Series petunias – A new series of petunias with the black gene.

Colors included Black Star, Dark Caramel Star and Blue with Green Edge. Very interesting!! (from Cohen)

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Sakata < SuperCal® Grape and SuperCal® Salmon Glow petchoa – Two new colors in this series of × Petchoa. They are a cross between Petunia and Calibrachoa. They are vigorous, very showy and do not have sticky foliage. They also tolerate a higher pH. ColorMax violas – A new series of violas with larger flowers than standard types. Ten colors and a mix. Excellent weather and heat tolerance.

SunPatiens® New Guinea impatiens – Three new colors in the spreading series – Shell Pink, Clear White and Scarlet Red. And two new colors in the compact series – Pink and Royal Magenta. Good for both sun and shade. Excellent in the landscape. These are not affected by downy mildew.

Plant Source International  Perfectunia® Orange Morn petunia – Bred by Westhoff, this new orange has a white center. Perfectunias® have a mounding habit and stay compact without PGRs. Definitely an interesting new color.

Angel’s Perfume geranium – This is an orange-scented geranium that also has showy flowers similar to the Angel Eyes® Series. Something a little different!

Syngenta Flowers  Lanai® verbenas – The new color in the Twister Series is Amethyst and both Twister Purple and Twister Red are improved. Lanai® White is also new. This is a color that was missing from the series.

Four new Upright Lanai® colors were also added – Pink with Eye, Purple with Eye, Red with Eye and White. > Sanguna® Radiant petunias – Two new colors – Radiant Rose and Radiant Blue. Lovely “reverse picotee” with the color on the rim and a white center. These really put on a show and have outstanding performance in landscape and containers.

Sanguna® Patio petunias – A new series with a compact mounded habit that will stay controlled on the bench but size up nicely in the landscape. > > Grandahlia™ dahlia – A new dahlia series by Syngenta, these are big plants for 6" or larger pots. They produce flowers on top of the plant. Seven colors. Sunrise and Rose Swirl are standouts.

Callie® million bells – Three new colors in this popular series of Calibrachoa – Apricot, Burgundy and Pink with Eye. The new breeding has a tighter habit, bigger flower size and better pH tolerance.

Brice zucchini – A new round zucchini that stays sweet and tender all the way through. Light green-colored fruit and a compact plant that could be grown in a container. Good disease resistance.

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➾ sp r in g trialS report

Proven Winners  Superbells® Frostfire million bells – A new color pattern for Calibrachoa – white with a burst of yellow outlined in red in the center. < Supertunia® Black Cherry petunia – A lovely dark burgundy red with a black throat and dark green foliage. This color will stand out alone or in a combination. Early to bloom.  Supertunia® Charm petunias – There are two new colors in this series of mini petunias. Morning Glory Charm is blue/violet with a white eye.

It’s unusual and pretty. Rose Blast Charm is from the same breeder as Raspberry Blast, so it looks similar but with a smaller flower.

Indigo Charm was improved and it now matches the series better.

Charms are great for windy locations because of their dense foliage.

Superbena® Royale verbenas – This verbena series finally has added Red and it’s a deep, dark color. Very nice! Also new is Royale Cherryburst, a red and cream star flower.

Lemon Lace™ Elderberry – A new shrub that is zone 3 hardy! This is a cutleaf Sambucus with a fantastic golden color. The new growth emerges pink, then turns gold. This variety has a tighter habit than Black Lace™.

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Dummen  Red Fox Hula Series million bells – Two new colors introduced in this Calibrachoa series – Lavender and Godiva. Godiva is a pink/peach shade with a dark purple center ring. Very unique! < Peppy Sunset petunia – A star pattern in pink and white with yellow highlights. The Peppy Series has great vigor and good landscape performance and they all have star pattern flowers.

CannaSol™ Series cannas – These are from tissue culture and will grow 2–2.5' tall. Nine colors and they will work well for height in larger container gardens. And no disease issues! <

MainStreet Rue Bourbon coleus – Lime green with a burgundy edge and lobed leaves, this new addition is really cool!

Benary Success!™ F1 petunias – A new series of trailing petunias from seed, these promise seven days earlier flowering, best uniformity and fewer PGRS needed. Compare to Easy Wave™ or Ramblin’™. Eight colors and two mixes.

Carolyn Jones of

BFG Plant Connection can be reached at cjones@bfgsupply.com.

Indeed, it was a great trip this year! When you are passionate about plants, there are always new varieties to get excited about! And adding new varieties and showcasing them at your store is a great tool to keep your customers excited and interested. Please remember to check back in your August Scoop issue for the second half of the 2014 Spring Trials Report. july 14

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➾ lega l iss ues

Changes for Driver Medical Cards Same Test, New Doctor: As of Wednesday, May 21, 2014 medical exams for commercial drivers must be performed by registered medical examiners.

Patrick McGuiness

Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC

longstanding state and federal regulations require certain commercial drivers to obtain certifications from medical professionals affirming that they are qualified to operate vehicles. In Minnesota, drivers that are covered by the regulations must carry medical cards.

But under new federal rules, drivers can no longer simply go to their family doctor for certification.

The federal rules now restrict who can perform the required exam. As of May 21, 2014, only health care workers who are members of the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners will be allowed to offer federal medical certifications. In order to be registered, medical practitioners must meet specific training and testing requirements laid out by the federal government, so it’s likely that many doctors won’t go through the trouble of getting certified.

It doesn’t look like the new guidelines will be too burdensome for businesses and drivers, however. If your current doctor is not certified, you can find a registered medical professional by searching the national registry’s online directory for examiners in your area.

Just go to: nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov.

Who Needs a Medical Card?

It is important to remember that even drivers who are not required to get commercial licenses may be required

to carry a medical card. In Minnesota, drivers must carry medical cards if they are driving: 1. A commercial vehicle that weighs more than 10,000 pounds; 2. Eight or more people for pay; 3. Fifteen or more people, regardless of whether it’s for pay; or, 4. A vehicle carrying hazardous material.

Once a driver passes the exam, the certificate typically lasts for two years. Drivers that have passed the exam in the last two years are not required to get reexamined early under the new guidelines.

If you have questions about whether your company’s drivers need commercial licenses or medical cards from the state, you should contact a qualified attorney.

This article provides general information on employment law and does not list all prohibitions, exclusions and regulations.

Do not rely upon this article 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 employment law or other legal matters, please contact Patrick McGuiness at Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC at 651-206-3203 or pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com.

DID YOU KNOW? MNLA members receive a reduced rate at Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC.

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Maguire ad:Maguire Agcy-05RB1/4 Page

11/6/06

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NEW

SCOOP COMING In January, MNLA will be introducing a redesigned Scoop. Our goal is to provide even greater value to you, the member, through this vital communication service. To do that, we need to know what your current needs are! We would like to gather your feedback on how you read The Scoop, which content you value most, and what you wish we would and Nationwide include. Please take five minutes and give us your Agribusiness opinions via a quick 5-question survey found here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ScoopFeedback. If you’d rather forward your comments via email, send those to jon@mnla.biz.

WRITERS WANTED We’re also looking for members who love to write – members who want to share useful information,

Page

$3.5 Billion

Minnesota’s Nursery & Landscape Industry Measures Up

INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

Minnesota’s nursery and landscape industry encompasses trained professionals in more than 2,000 companies. Blossoming from the horticultural roots of tree, shrub and flower growers, the industry has matured into a broadbased collection of family-owned businesses that enhance the state’s outdoor living environment by providing plants; landscape design; installation and maintenance services; as well as yard and garden structures.

For this survey, nursery and landscape companies surveyed included: • Landscape contractors and designers • Professional gardening services • Lawn and landscape maintenance services • Arborists and tree care services • Irrigation contractors • Retail nurseries, greenhouses and garden centers • Wholesale nursery stock growers (trees & shrubs) • Wholesale commercial flower growers (annuals, perennials and potted flowering plants) • Re-wholesale supply centers • Wholesale and retail hard goods suppliers (fertilizers, landscape tools, mulch, outdoor statuary, retaining wall and paver materials, landscape lighting, and ponds)

AN IMPORTANT PART OF MINNESOTA’S ECONOMY

GROSS VOLUME OF SALES:

$1,902,525,762*

TOTAL PAYROLL:

$1,266,507,821

TOTAL NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES (INCLUDING

FULL-TIME, PART-TIME, AND SEASONAL WORKERS):

42,132

TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT**

$3.5 BILLION

*This number is comparable to the 2003 survey number of $2.1 billion. **Uses the IMPLAN® method to determine how dollars from one industry segment multiply through the economy.

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION: $604 Million The growing of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and potted flowering plants is recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as specialty crop farming.

Tree and shrub production $459 million Annual, perennial, groundcover, herb, and potted flowering plant production $98 million Turfgrass seed/sod production $47 million Land in Minnesota used in the production of woody plants and field grown perennials 36,000 acres Space in Minnesota used in the production of annuals, perennials, and potted flowering plants 13 million square feet

8% 8% 8% 8% 8% 8% 8% 8%

LANDSCAPE SERVICES: $1.5 Billion Many property owners hire companies to design, install and maintain landscape features for their outdoor living environment from several specialized fields of Landscape contracting professional Landscape services. contracting // installation installation

Landscape contracting // installation Landscape contractinginstallation installation Garden maintenance, and Landscape contracting // installation Garden maintenance, installation and design design Gross volume of sales Landscape contracting installation 9% Garden maintenance, installation and design Landscape contracting / installation Garden maintenance, installation and design Landscape design contracting / installation $725 million - Landscape contracting / installation Garden maintenance, installation and Landscape design Landscape contracting / installation Garden maintenance, installation and design design 3% Landscape design 49% Garden maintenance, installation and design $91 million – Garden maintenance, installation and design Garden maintenance, installation and design 49% Landscape design Landscape irrigation design, installation and service Garden maintenance, installation and design 49% design Landscape irrigation design, installation and service Landscape design 49% design $29.6 million - Landscape design 9% Landscape irrigation design, installation 49% 49% Landscape design Landscape irrigation design, installation anddesign, service management irrigation installation and and service service Lawn care and landscape 49% design Landscape irrigation design, installation and service $218 million Landscape irrigation design, installation and service Lawn care and landscape management Lawn care and landscapeirrigation management 49% Landscape design, installation and service Lawn care and landscape management 49% irrigation design, installation and service Lawn care and landscape management TreeLandscape care/arboriculture $136.3 million Lawn care and landscape management Tree care/arboriculture Landscape irrigation design, installation and service Lawn care and management Tree care/arboriculture Snow removal services 14% Lawn care and-landscape landscape management Tree care/arboriculture $49 million Tree care/arboriculture Lawn care landscape management Tree care/arboriculture Other landscape servicesandservices Snow removal Lawn care andservices landscape Tree care/arboriculture Snow removal $137.3 million – Snow management removal services 2% Tree care/arboriculture Snow removal services 6% Tree care/arboriculture Snow removal services $112 million – Other landscape services Other landscape services Tree care/arboriculture Snow services Other landscape services Snow removal removal services Other landscape services Snow services Other landscape services Snow removal removal services Other Other landscape landscape services services Other landscape services WHOLESALE HARD GOODS: Other$288.3 landscape Million services 8%

2% 2% 2% 2% 2% 2% 2% 2%

6% 6% 6% 6% 6% 6% 6% 6%

Hard goods

Wholesale hard goods includes fertilizers and other chemicals, tools, mulch, and outdoor statuary. Wholesale hardscapes includes retaining wall and paver materials, landscape lighting, and ponds.

Gross volume of sales $103.8 goods Hard goodsmillion - Hard Hardscapes $184.5 million – Hardscapes Hardscapes

36%

64%

Hard goods

Hard

20% 20% 20% 20%

12%

3%

25%

Trees & Shrubs Annuals Gross of sales Treesvolume & Shrubs Annuals Trees & Shrubs Annuals $38.9 million - Trees & Shrubs Trees & Shrubs Annualsflowering plants Trees & Shrubs Annuals Perennials Potted Trees & Shrubs Annuals $48.7 million - Annuals Potted flowering plants Perennials Perennials $28.9flowering million -plants Perennials Potted flowering plants Perennials Potted Perennials Pottedgoods flowering plants Potted Perennials $10.5flowering million -plants Potted flowering plants Turfgrass Hard Perennials25% Potted plants $5.9 flowering million - Turfgrass Turfgrass Hard goods Turfgrass $23.7 million - Hard goodsHard goods Hard goods Turfgrass 25% 25% 25% Turfgrass Turfgrass Hard $41goods million – Hardscapes Hard goods Hardscapes 25% Turfgrass 25% Hard goods Hardscapes 25% Hardscapes Hardscapes ENVIRONMENTAL ENHANCEMENT Hardscapes Hardscapes 14% Hardscapes 14% 5%

control erosion, nursery and landscape companies improve our environment.

• Strategically-placed shade or evergreen trees will provide shade in summer and protection from cold winter winds, effectively cutting energy costs.

• Trees can improve air quality, conserve water and harbor wildlife.

• Shrubs or perennial gardens can slow erosion by decreasing water runoff.

• Many annuals and perennials provide food and habitat for creatures such as hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.

• Thousands of tree seedlings are planted each year for reforestation, windbreaks and shelterbelts in rural Minnesota.

• Minnesota’s plant professionals have been active participants in efforts to control the spread of invasive species.

• Irrigation professionals are committed to methods and practices which conserve previous water resources.

• A thick, healthy, well-maintained lawn prevents soil erosion, filters contaminants from rainwater, and absorbs many types of airborne pollutants like dust and soot.

• Minnesota’s lawn care and landscape professionals have been active participants in efforts to reduce the use of phosphorus on lawns in an effort to protect the quality of Minnesota lakes.

• Technologies such as permeable pavement systems aid in stormwater mitigation.

Clean Water Minnesota

14%Nursery and landscape professionals work every day to enhance our urban 14%and rural environments. From plants that attract wildlife to retaining walls that

Southview Design

14%

Clean Water Minnesota

5% 5% 5% 5%

20%

21%

Retail nursery and landscape sales come in many forms: the seasonal roadside market selling a few annuals; specialized tree or flower growers; hardscape supply centers selling landscape rock and retaining wall materials; and the full service garden Trees & Shrubs center selling Annuals a full line of plants and landscape materials.

Retail hard goods includes fertilizers and other chemicals, Perennials Potted flowering plants tools, mulch, and outdoor statuary. Retail hardscapes includes Turfgrass goods retaining wall Hard and paver materials, landscape lighting, and Trees & Shrubs Annuals ponds.

Hardscapes

Green Acres Sprinkler Co.

21% 21% 20% 21% 20% 21% 20%

RETAIL SALES: $197.6 Million

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION The nursery and landscape industry reaches into every corner of Minnesota, as shown by the gross sales per region on the map. In addition, nursery and greenhouse crops that are grown in Minnesota are exported to nearly every state and into Canada, as well as to countries overseas.

WESTERN MINNESOTA $42 MILLION NORTHEASTERN MINNESOTA $39.5 MILLION

Sales in Minnesota Western – $42 million Northeastern – $39.5 million Southern – $147.4 million Twin Cities - $1.37 billion Minnesota’s Nursery & Landscape Exports $275.5 million to other states $22.8 million to Canada and other countries

TWIN CITIES $1.37 BILLION SOUTHERN MINNESOTA $147.4 MILLION

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS This economic impact study was a joint effort of the cooperators listed below. The project was spearheaded by the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association (MNLA) on behalf of the industry’s over 2,000 companies. Major funding was provided by AURI and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Minnesota Grown Program. The survey was initially created and distributed by the MNLA. Industry companies were surveyed in the winter of 2013-2014. Data compilation and analysis was performed by researchers at the School of Public Affairs Research Institute at St. Cloud State University.

Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association 1813 Lexington Ave N Roseville, MN 55113 Phone 651-633-4987 fax 651-633-4986 www.mnla.biz

School of Public Affairs Research Institute at St. Cloud State University Professor King Banaian, Department of Economics 720 Fourth Ave S St. Cloud MN 56301 Phone 320-308-4797 fax 320-308-2228 www.stcloudstate.edu/ sopa/research-institute/

Agricultural Utilization Research Institute www.auri.org

Minnesota Grown Minnesota Department of Agriculture www.minnesotagrown.com

This report is available as a PDF that can be downloaded from MNLA.biz. Online readers can click here to download now. © Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association, 2014

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➾ mnla fo un dation

THe garden party b uy y o ur ti ckets t oday!

dear green industry colleagues, It is with great excitement and enthusiasm that I share with you an upcoming MNLA Foundation event that will provide a once in a lifetime opportunity for our membership. We have recently received an invitation to visit a garden that only a few people around the world, mostly world class designers, have ever had the honor of stepping foot in. The 2014 MNLA Foundation Garden Party will be in Medina, Minnesota, among the amazing gardens created by Wally Marx.

When I first spoke to Wally, he told me it may be one of the finest gardens created in this country during the last century. After walking through it this spring, I must say that he is not overstating this claim. It is, quite simply, AMAZING! I was in disbelief that such a garden existed right here in Minnesota and that I had never heard about it. It is a grand garden (measured in acres) carefully designed and crafted in true English fashion with incredible views and artful composition. Terraces created with beautiful natural stone walls enclose and embrace each garden room, while each and every plant has been carefully selected and placed to bring the gardens to life. Materials and sculptures from around the globe adorn the garden and make you want to explore each and every nook and cranny for fear that you might miss something incredible.

I’ll say it now and you will hear me say it again: you can’t miss the opportunity to see this garden!

My humble description does not come close to doing the garden justice. The Wallace Gardens have been listed as one of the 1001 Gardens You Must See Before You Die, and rightfully so.

For that reason, we want to make this accessible to as many people in our industry as possible and have modified the Garden Party format to give everyone that opportunity. We will offer an afternoon “open garden” option as well as an evening soiree that includes amazing food and beverages shared in the most beautiful garden setting imaginable, along with a few surprises along the way.

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➾ m n l a fou n dat i o n

I would encourage fellow business owners to send as many of your employees as possible, as a reward for all of the hard work they do, and also as an inspiring outing to grow their experiences to bring back and share with your customers. The afternoon portion of the event will provide you with an opportunity to send your employees to see the gardens at an affordable price, all as a tax deductible contribution to the Foundation. Most of us cannot afford to send our staff to England to view such a fine garden, but we can afford to send them to Medina, Minnesota. Trust me, it will be worth it.

For those of you who join us for the casual evening of socializing, food, drink, and garden envy, it will no doubt be a night to remember. The evening is not limited to only MNLA members so be sure to invite friends, family, neighbors, or anyone else you know that might want to partake in such a wonderful opportunity. Keep in mind that tickets will be limited so don’t hesitate to get yours. We are looking forward to an incredible event and hope that you will join us in supporting the great work of the Foundation and taking advantage of this incredible opportunity. You won’t want to miss this.

Respectfully, Dean Engelmann, Tangletown Gardens

Tickets for the Garden Party can be purchased using the insert in this issue of the Scoop or online at www.MNLA.biz/event/gardenparty. july 14

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➾ b usi ness briefs

Sterling Arbor llc.

business briefs LaurentiAn Wins a Labovitz

Specializing in large, legacy plantings and sourcing trees throughout the country to meet the Landscape Architect’s specifications

Congratulations to MNLA member Laurentian Monument Granite and Stone on winning “Emerging Entrepreneur” from the 2014 Joel Labovitz Entrepreneurial Success Awards. The UMD Center for Economic Development (CED) presents the awards to recognize entrepreneurs and business owners from throughout the Twin Ports and Northeastern Minnesota.

The Great Recession’s Impact on Horticulture Evident in New Agriculture Census Joe Bischoff | AmericanHort Director of Government Relations

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistical Service (NASS) recently released the results of the 2012 Census of Agriculture. The first agriculture census was done in 1840, and since 1920 the census has been done every 5 years. In 1976 Congress decided that the census would be performed in years ending in 2 and 7 to coincide with other economic censuses.

Boxed Trees

The 2012 census was the first to capture the fallout of the Great Recession, which most economists agree began in 2007, reached it depths in 2008–2009, and from which many aspects of the economy are still recovering. While agriculture as a whole showed considerable strength in 2012 when compared to 2007 — 33 percent increase in total sales — most of that increase was due to gains in row crops. Not surprising, the horticulture industry was not nearly as fortunate. (lined with Rootmaker)

Nursery and Floriculture crops, which includes things like cuttings, bulbs, annuals, perennials, woody plants, and Christmas trees, took a significant hit since the last census. Sales dropped nearly $2 billion (14%) since 2007, with nursery sales seeing the biggest drop, approaching $1.5 billion, a decline of 22 percent. Much of this decline is attributed to the Great Recession’s impact on the housing market and new residential and commercial construction. However, many also believe changing consumer demographics associated with the aging of the “baby boomers” are an underlying factor.

One area of production that did see an increase was in cuttings, seedlings, liners, and plugs, where sales were estimated to be up over $140 million, an increase of 33 percent.

Large, Above Ground Cor-Ten Steel Planters (lined w/ Rootmaker)

We have moved! Our new yard is located just near Max Tree Farm (soon to be major supplier of large trees for local projects).

Inquire regarding NEW SOURCE of 18’ to 24’ Norway Spruce sterlingarbor.com 612-747-5363 54

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july 14

Scandia, MN

Despite the troubling revenue numbers there did not appear to be a corresponding decline in the number of operating farms in 2012, when compared with 2007. In late 2015 we expect the results of the 2014 Census of Horticultural Specialties, which will provide a much more detailed look into the industry and will, hopefully, reflect a continued and even more rapidly expanding recovery. Also, AmericanHort is eagerly awaiting the revised Economic Impact of the Green Industry report, which is developed by a consortium of universities and will be published late in 2014.

The full NASS 2012 Census of Agriculture is available online.

Health Care Seasonal Definitions Tweak Discussed Craig Regelbrugge | AmericanHort Senior Vice President — Industry Advocacy & Research

AmericanHort and allied associations, including the Society of American Florists, PLANET, and the National Restaurant Association, have been working to educate Congress about the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) complex treatment of seasonal workers. Different definitions of seasonal, with different lengths of service, are used when determining whether a business is a small or large employer under the

â&#x17E;ž b usi ness briefs

law and when determining which employees must be offered health insurance. These different definitions make complying with the law very confusing for seasonal employers.

We are pleased that Reps. Renacci (R-OH) and Schrader (D-OR) are working on legislation to create one clear definition of seasonal employment for ACA purposes, and align the seasonal provisions of the law. While benefits of the change would be modest, it would make compliance clearer.

We will continue to keep you updated as these legislative efforts progress.

H-2B Correction AmericanHort

A recent Washington Impact article spoke to a recent IRS counsel determination exempting employers in the H-2B program from Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) withholdings and contributions. True to a point. But, there is always the fine print. The exemption only applies to Philippine nationals working in the U.S. territory of Guam. Apologies if we got your hopes up. As always, the last word comes from your own qualified tax advisor.

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➾ stat e fa ir

state fair sign up Marketin g Space Ava i l a b l e fo r M NLA M em be rs

NEW! Market your own business in this beautiful MNLA garden August 21–September 1, 2014.

Please fill in contact information and indicate your first and second shift choice in the schedule below: Company: Contact Name: Email Address: Phone: Cell Phone: DAY

9 a.m.–12 noon

12 noon–3 p.m.

3 p.m.–6 p.m.

Thursday, August 21 Friday, August 22 Saturday, August 23 Sunday, August 24 Monday, August 25 Tuesday, August 26 Wednesday, August 27 Thursday, August 28 Friday, August 29 Saturday, August 30 Sunday, August 31 Monday, September 1 Investment: $300.00 per shift, $550.00 per half day (2 consecutive shifts), $1000.00 for a full day.

Shifts will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Each company will also donate four man hours of labor per three-hour shift.

Fax sheet to: 651-633-4986 or email to: susan@mnla.biz

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6 p.m.–9 p.m.

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➾ mnla n ews

networking news Takeaways:

Duluth Green Industry Networking Group

• Having an opportunity to try out a piece of equipment is always worth the time and a lot of fun, too.

Meeting Date:

5/16: 11:00 am

• The battery operated power tools are a neat option to have, but quite expensive.

LOCATION:

• The battery operated tools are very functional and do a good job. No arborist saw, yet.

Burgraff’s Ace Hardware

• It’s nice to have an opportunity to see colleagues, especially during the busy season.

MNLA Summer Social at Summit Brewery-to benefit MNLA Foundation Scholarships.

Did you know?

Annually, the MNLA Foundation provides an average of $25,000 in scholarships to college students entering the nursery and landscape industry.

Take a break after a busy day and Join fellow MNLA Members for beer and pizza on Thursday, July 17 at Summit Brewery Company in St. Paul.

Schedule: 5:00 pm – Arrival/Check-in 5:30 pm – Beer, Pizza and Mingle 6:30 pm – College Scholarship Presentation by MNLA Foundation Scholarship Program Cost: $20 per person (includes pizza, 1 beer ticket, and donation to the Foundation Scholarship Program).

Register online at www.MNLA.biz

Welcome new MNLA members!

4 Seasons Wealth Management; Hudson, WI; Zach Engelking, 651-261-2172

HousecallsUnlimited, Inc.; Blaine, MN; Steve Bengston, 612-581-4069

Citi-Cargo & Storage Co., Inc.; Eagan, MN; Al Ofstenhage, 651-681-4902

JK Mechanical; Nashwauk, MN; Joseph Klamm, 218-244-8989

Donlie Underground; Lakeville, MN; Jeremy Storlie, 952-469-2643

Luna’s Outdoor Solutions LLC; Minneapolis, MN; Pascual Luna, 612-432-7551

Doty Hardscapes; Mendota Heights, MN; David Doty, 512-618-7033 ETC; Farmington, MN; Eric Hanson, 952-393-6385

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Frattalone Tractor; St. Paul, MN; Tony Frattalone, 651-484-0448

Maple Leaf Inc.; Verona, WI; Gordon Grant, 608-845-2203 Martinson Construction; Andover, MN; Al Martinson, 763-242-4417

Fabricating Solutions, LLC; Lindstrom, MN; Doug Engel, 651-248-6159

Mike McPhillips, Inc.; South St. Paul, MN; Mike Edge, 651-451-4030

Flakne Enterprises; Albertville, MN; Mark Flakne

North Anoka Plumbing, Inc.; St. Francis, MN; Karen Jansen, 763-753-3373

mnla .biz

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photo flashback Flashb ack : Refl ecti n g o n M NLA’ s News l e t t e r

The year 2015 marks the 90th Anniversary of the association, and we want to celebrate our past and energize our future! This is a series of photo flashbacks you will see in the Scoop during the upcoming year that help to celebrate our past.

The MNLA newsletter has gone through many design evolutions over the years. Take a look at these changes that occurred between 1979 and today!

1981

1986

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Biodegradable Containers

Green Industry Benchmark Report

Also Inside

1979

Plant of the Month Out & About Photo Flashback

POLLINATORS

A 12-page section covering this season’s hottest topic

Vol: 37 No: 5 May 2014 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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Top Five Landscape Awards Photography Tips

Quality photographs are a crucial component of a winning MNLA Landscape Awards entry.

1. Tidy up. Take care of neglected pruning, snip off bad leaves, edge the lawn, sweep paved areas, straighten blinds and curtains, pull weeds, etc.

2. Show the details of construction, both in the structures and rest of the landscape.

3. Make your picture suggest that there is much more “just around the corner,” such as a wall that disappears around a corner, foliage from an invisible tree, light from an unseen opening, etc.

4. Accessorize completely to give the view a “lived-in” feeling.

5. Include people discreetly to show scale of otherwise important points.

The MNLA Landscape Awards is a program of recognition for installed landscapes. Submitting companies must be MNLA members who offer design, installation, design/build, bid/build, or other landscape specialty to their clients.

Did you know?

In any given year, ALL entries could win awards, or NO entries could win awards. Entries are not judged against each other; rather each entry is judged against the standards of excellence. Judges must decide whether an entry, in their opinion, meets or exceeds those standards.

SAVE THE DATE Now one week later!

Minneapolis Convention Center www.NorthernGreenExpo.org Half page Save the Date - July Scoop.indd 1

6/21/2014 4:52:53 PM