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COMMENTARY
President’s Message 5
Executive Vice President’s Message 6 NCNLA MEMBER
Member Spotlight: Lackey Lighting and Irrigation 8 Certified Plant Professional Update & Renewals 10
Memoriam 15
Student Spotlight: Reagan Carver 12 North Carolina Collegiate Corner 14
Cloudburst™ Flowering Dogwood
Keeping Purple Loosestrife in Check
Landscape Pros Deserve a Better, Faster Nursery Experience
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Nursery & Landscapenotes
Published by
North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc.
968 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC 27607
NCNLA Staff
Katie Bennett Executive Vice President
Kathryn Stansbury Director of Business Development & Strategic Partnerships
Wendi Doak Director of Marketing & Communications
Rayna Bailey Operations Manager
Nursery & Landscape Notes is published quarterly by the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. (NCNLA), covering news, research, education and business in the nursery and landscape industries. The publication is distributed to approximately 825 horticulture producers, landscape professionals and industry suppliers.
Nursery & Landscape Notes is provided as a member service.
2025 NCNLA Board of Directors
Officers
Dana Massey President Plantworks Nursery
Rougemont, NC
Jon Schwarz Vice President, Secretary/Treasurer
Pender Pines Garden Center Hampstead, NC
Ariel Montañez Past President Pender Nursery Garner, NC
Directors
Hunter Casey Casey Nursery Inc. Goldsboro, NC
Michael Gossett
Gossett’s Landscape Nursery Inc. High Point, NC
Dylan Gragg
Gregory Poole North 40 Nursery Morganton, NC
Todd Lange
Gregory Poole Equipment Company Raleigh, NC
Art Miller
Carolina Creations Landscapes Inc. Shallotte, NC
Jason Tebben Savatree/ Arborscapes Pineville, NC
Educational Advisors
Jason Davis University of Mount Olive Mount Olive, NC
Caleb Fox Alamance Community College Graham, NC
Jodi Driedger NC State University Raleigh, NC
Advertising
For advertising inquiries and publication schedule, please contact Wendi Doak at wdoak@ncnla.com or 919-819-9119, ext. 1002.
The inclusion of products or brand names in this publication is not an endorsement by the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association.
Mission: To provide essential value to our members through education, marketing and advocacy.
Vision: To promote and protect the interests of North Carolina’s green industry.
Connect with NCNLA facebook.com/NCNurseryandLandscapeAssociation instagram.com/ncnla ncnla.com | BuyNCPlants.com | GreenandGrowin.com Tax Deductible Dues Contributions or gifts to NCNLA are not tax deductible as charitable contributions. However, they may be tax deductible as ordinary business expenses. A portion of your dues is not deductible as an ordinary business expense to the extent that NCNLA engages in lobbying. The estimated non-deductible portion of your dues assessment is 20%.
NCNLA EVENTS
Carolina Nursery Summit
June 3, 2025
North Carolina State University McKimmon Center Raleigh, NC
Robert Cagle Memorial Golf Tournament
June 23, 2025
Lochmere Golf Club Cary, NC
CPP Exam
July 22, 2025
Pinehurst, NC
NCNLA Student Experience at Caterpillar
September 11, 2025
Caterpillar facility Clayton, NC
CPP Exam
September 5, 2025 Durham, NC
CPP Exam
October 1, 2025 Charlotte, NC
Grasschopper
Landscape Management Waxhaw, NC
Currin Outdoor Living Raleigh, NC
Sunset Hill Farm NC LLC Cary, NC
EquiScape Business Advisors, LLC
Marietta, GA
Growpro, LLC Raleigh, NC
Green & Growin’ 26
January 19-23, 2026
INDUSTRY EVENTS
Greensboro, NC AmericanHort Cultivate ’25 July 12-15, 2025 Columbus, OH cultivateevent.org
JoCoPlants Show August 20, 2025 NC State Fairgrounds Raleigh, NC jocoplants.com/jocoplantsshow
Impact Washington September 15-17, 2025 Washington, DC americanhort.org
ELEVATE November 2-5, 2025 Phoenix, AZ landscapeprofessionals.org/ ELEVATE
Photo provided by Tom Ranney. See artcle on page 18.
Cloudburst™ Dogwood (Cornus ‘NCCH3’ PPAF).
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Ready, Set, Plan!
By the time you read this, you will have made it through Mother’s Day — yay! Unfortunately, though, the first part of 2025 brought some significant challenges. While of course we constantly battle the weather in terms of temperature, this spring also brought the perfect combination of factors favorable to wildfires, which impacted areas on the coast, as well as parts of North Carolina already ravaged by Hurricane Helene. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, and we will persevere to help them recover.
Plantworks Nursery Rougemont, NC
Looking back at recent events for the association, the NCNLA Board of Directors and staff had a productive two-day annual planning meeting in March, and we are excited to begin work on a strategic plan to enhance our mission of providing essential value to our members through education, marketing and advocacy. Stay tuned for more details!
The NCNLA Legislative Committee has been hard at work fundraising for the political action committee (PAC) and organizing Legislative Day, held April 29 at the capitol, followed by a reception. Thank you to all who contributed to, planned and attended the event — your support is making an impact! HB47, the Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part I, was passed, providing $200 million in aid for agriculture in Helene-affected counties and $100 million in aid for other 2024 weather-related disasters. The committee requested a 45-day claim extension, in light of how long it can take to determine the true losses of plant material. We have been working closely with legislators, the office of Governor Stein and NCDA&CS, and we will continue to push to secure additional aid for Western North Carolina nurseries and landscapers. Please consider contributing to the PAC, as your contributions help NCNLA:
• Monitor legislative discussions affecting our industry
• Advocate for fair regulations
• Protect the integrity of the landscape contractor profession
• Support Western North Carolina nurseries recovering from Hurricane Helene
And please be sure to join us for these future events:
• June 3: Carolina Nursery Summit
• June 23: Robert Cagle Memorial Golf Tournament
• September 11: NCNLA Student Experience at Caterpillar
Let’s Grow Together.
Do You Know NCNLA’s Mission?
Our mission at NCNLA is to provide essential value to our members through education, marketing and advocacy. But what does that truly mean? This very question guided the NCNLA Board of Directors during our strategic planning session in March. As we finalize our formal strategic plan, we are eager to share it with our members and continue advancing our mission.
Katie Bennett NCNLA Executive Vice President
Education
To enhance our educational offerings, I am thrilled to announce the Carolina Nursery Summit, scheduled for June 3, 2025, in Raleigh. Tailored specifically for nurseries and growers, this event offers a platform for networking, learning and discussion. With expert speakers, an interactive panel and opportunities to connect with industry peers, the summit promises valuable insights into the latest innovations and practices in the nursery industry. The event’s schedule is shaped by direct feedback from our members, and we look forward to welcoming everyone at the North Carolina State University McKimmon Center in June! Additionally, mark your calendars for the return of the Robert Cagle Memorial Golf Tournament on June 23, 2025, in Cary. This cherished annual event is not only a fun day of golf but also a vital fundraiser for our scholarship program. Last year we awarded $6,000 in scholarships to deserving students, supporting the educational pursuits of the next generation of industry leaders. Your participation in the tournament bolsters this important cause and reinforces our commitment to investing in the future of our industry.
Marketing
Marketing is a dynamic and evolving effort that encompasses a variety of strategies. One of the most visible and effective ways we support our members’ marketing goals is through signature events that draw industry attention. At NCNLA, our Green & Growin’ Marketplace remains a premier marketing opportunity for members, offering them the chance
to showcase their businesses to current and potential customers. This event highlights our dedication to providing platforms that enhance member visibility and engagement.
During our strategic planning session, we emphasized this pillar of our mission. As part of our ongoing efforts, the association is committed to developing an external communications plan that aims to boost brand awareness and tackle challenges related to workforce perceptions within the nursery and landscape industry. By strategically promoting our association and its core values, we seek to foster a deeper public understanding of and appreciation for our industry. Ultimately, this initiative aims to attract a more robust and skilled workforce, ensuring our industry’s continued growth and success.
Advocacy
Advocacy remains a cornerstone of our mission at NCNLA. While our primary focus is on state legislative efforts impacting our members, we also monitor potential federal impacts. This year, the NCNLA Legislative Committee has been actively advocating for our industry by meeting with legislators and the office of Governor Stein. We have developed guidance for our affected membership to share their stories directly with decision-makers, ensuring their voices are heard where they matter most. Together, we can continue to address key issues affecting our industry. I encourage you to read the article on page 28 to learn more about why NCNLA’s advocacy efforts truly matter.
One of the new benefits of NCNLA membership is access to the Lighthouse Program through AmericanHort. This program offers invaluable resources and support, providing access to AmericanHort’s advocacy team and regular legislative updates. You may have noticed new emails in your inbox as part of this program, and we hope you find the information valuable! This is just one of the many ways NCNLA is committed to delivering value to our members.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement with NCNLA. Our mission to deliver essential value through education, marketing and advocacy thrives because of your dedication. We encourage you to utilize the many opportunities and resources we offer.
NCNLA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT »
Five Minutes with Travis Lackey, Lackey Lighting and Irrigation
Lackey Lighting and Irrigation LLC
Wilmington, NC
Owner Travis Lackey In business 1.5 years
Number of employees Zero (so far!)
Member of NCNLA Since 2024
Favorite offerings from NCNLA
As a new member, the information in Nursery & Landscape Notes has been very helpful in expanding my knowledge of the industry beyond the Wilmington area. I’m also looking forward to attending the Green & Growin’ show to meet other members and participate in NCNLA’s continuing education opportunities.
How did you get into the business?
I started my career in golf course management using my turfgrass degree from North Carolina State University. After working as an assistant superintendent for many years at private golf courses, I decided to pivot into the landscape industry and became a special projects manager at one of the larger full-scale landscape companies in Wilmington. A few years ago, I realized that the time was right for me to go out on my own and focus on the technical side of maintaining property, which I’ve always found to be one of the most rewarding aspects of the industry.
What is a typical day like for you? In general, no day is exactly the same, due to the individual nature of each property and each client’s vision and/or concerns. In general, you’ll find me in Wilmington, in Wrightsville Beach or on Figure Eight Island designing landscape lighting schemes, installing or replacing lighting fixtures, and servicing irrigation systems for proper turf/plant coverage and water usage.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
I truly enjoy being able to connect with so many people in my area to help them make their outdoor spaces as enjoyable as they can be.
What is your company best known for?
Providing durable yet elegant outdoor lighting systems that can stand up to the challenging coastal environment.
What issues are you concerned about as a company in the green industry?
Primarily the rising cost and availability of materials. I do feel very fortunate to have dependable local lighting and irrigation vendors, but scheduling around the availability of materials and keeping costs down are always top of mind.
What have you gained from your involvement in NCNLA?
Joining NCNLA has broadened my network beyond the Wilmington area. I’ve also gained perspective on issues I’m dealing with, after reading about how other members across the state are approaching the same issues.
What advice do you have for someone interested in or just starting in the industry?
My main advice would be to focus on your communication skills. I find more and more that effective and timely communication is the key to success in relationships with colleagues, clients or employees.
Certified Plant Professional Update
NCNLA recently hosted two Certified Plant Professional (CPP) exams this spring. The first took place on March 14, 2025, in Monroe, NC, thanks to host Deborah Dillion, and the second was held on April 4 in Wilson, NC, courtesy of hosts Danny and Cyndi Lauderdale. A total of 12 individuals sat for the credential and of those, seven successfully passed and earned their CPP designations. Congratulations to our newest Certified Plant Professionals!
Aaron Gerlach, Tryon Palace
Ashley Henry, Cardinal Landscaping
Lynda Lowry, Arranged Floral Co.
John McCrimmon, Southern Pines, NC
Juliette McNair, Pike Nurseries
Anna Pawloski, Carol Woods Retirement Community
Lindsay Wallen, Red Mill Landscaping & Nursery Inc.
In addition, thank you to all who have renewed their CPP designations for the 2025-2027 period. Your continued commitment to professional development and industry excellence helps raise the standard for horticulture and landscape professionals across North Carolina.
The CPP designation is a mark of knowledge, experience and dedication, signifying that they meet a high standard of technical expertise in plant identification, care and landscape practices. By maintaining their certification, these individuals not only support their professional growth but also help build trust with clients, employers and peers who recognize the value of the CPP credential. We appreciate their investment in this respected program and their ongoing contribution to the success and reputation of North Carolina’s green industry.
NCNLA is proud to recognize the following professionals who recently renewed their CPP designations for 2025-2027:
William Ammons, Wake County Parks – Beech Bluff County Park
Gregory Audet, Bradsher Custom Outdoor
Don Benson, JustGreen Lawn and Landscaping
Brian Best, City of Raleigh – Parks and Natural Resources Department
Hilarie Blevins, Sandhills Community College
Amanda Bratcher, NC Cooperative Extension
Anna Burgess, Metrolina Greenhouses
Gail Byrd, LKN Landscape Design
Gary Byrd, Gary’s Lawn Care
Kelton Byrd, Kelton Byrd’s Lawncare
Christian Carfano, Town of Cary
Hadley Cheris, Tryon Palace
Sarah Christas, NC Cooperative Extension
Thaddeus Cole, Highland Heritage Landscapes Inc.
Brittany Cook, Carolina Garden Company
Aaron Costello, Town of Cary
Michelle Douglas, The Southern Landscape Group
Lauren Freudenberger, City of Raleigh – Parks and Natural Resources Division
Andrew Gentry, City of Raleigh Parks
Valerie Grant, Davis Landscape Ltd.
Zack Greenhill, SiteOne Landscape Supply
Aaron Haney, Rustic Roots Landscape Co. LLC
Pamela Hanson, Pam’s Plant Design
Eddie Henderson, Town of Rolesville
Alexandra Hicks, Hobbton High School
Jason Hughes, Nature’s Select
Caleb Hunt, Green Worx Landscaping & Outdoor Projects Inc.
Michael Hunter, Hunter Landscapes Inc.
Parker Hurst, Pike Nursery Highland Creek
Jason Kuhn, University of North Carolina Wilmington
Joy Lew, Reems Creek Nursery Inc.
Sergio Lopez, City of Charlotte
Grace Macdonald, Bland Landscaping Co. Inc.
Rachel McIntyre, City of Wilmington
Chris Mitchell, Agape Lawn Care
Phillip Morgan, Colonial Landscapes
Beverly Osborne, Pike Nurseries
Darren Owen, Gardenology Inc.
Natasha Poteet, Bland Landscaping Co. Inc.
James Radcliff, Camel Country Club
Jeremy Rogers, City of Raleigh
Stephen Sluder, Bucktom Services LLC
David Solmes, Cultivate Landscape LLC
Garrett Stockdale, Coalition Landscaping
John Mark Swicegood, Just My Style Landscapes
Cheryl Talkington
Olivia Terrell, The Biltmore Company
Brian Wasnock, Wrightsville Beach Landscaping & Lawn Care Inc.
Shelby Werner, Carol Woods Retirement Community
John Wright, J. W. Wright & Associates
Julie Wynne, Reems Creek Nursery & Landscaping Inc.
Upcoming CPP Exams
For more information about the CPP program, to renew your CPP certification or to register for an upcoming exam, visit www.ncnla.com/CPP or email cpp@ncnla.com.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT »
Reagan Carver
Nursery & Landscape Notes is introducing you to the next generation of green industry professionals by featuring current and recent college students with plans to pursue careers in the field.
Student Profile
Name: Reagan Carver
Hometown: Mooresboro, NC
College: University of Mount Olive
Graduation date: 2026
Major/area of study: Agricultural Education
How
did you discover horticulture?
Although I was in FFA in high school, I didn’t really discover horticulture until I started at the University of Mount Olive (UMO). I have taken countless horticulture classes during my time at UMO, and my love for horticulture has only grown.
What were your most valuable experiences, either in school or from other exposure to the industry, and why?
I have been blessed to volunteer with UMO the past three years at Green & Growin’, where I have able to interact with many
successful people, push myself out of my comfort zone by moderating speakers and learn about all aspects of the horticulture industry. I am forever grateful for all the connections I have made and all the opportunities I have been offered there.
What have been your favorite college classes?
My favorite college classes have been Horticulture I Methods, taught by Dr. Bradley, and Soil Science, taught by Dr. Tilley. Horticulture I Methods taught me about the needs of plants and how to press and propagate them — skills I plan to use in the classroom and with my own plants. Soil Science, a subject I knew nothing about beforehand, has challenged me to develop new skills like making soil monoliths, performing perc tests and identifying different soil types found on our school farm.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m still deciding whether I’ll move back home or stay near Mount Olive after graduation, but I do know that I want to go into teaching. I’m open to teaching a variety of subjects within agriculture, especially after getting the chance to observe different teachers and classes during my junior practicum at Greene Central High School.
What advice would you give to a student interested in the field?
Take on every opportunity, no matter how far it is out of your comfort zone — sometimes that’s when we grow the most, create experiences and make connections that open doors to the future.
Fun question: What is your favorite plant, and why?
I have a lot of favorite plants for different reasons (my room honestly looks like a mini-jungle). But if I had to choose just one, I’d probably say my Alocasia Sanderiana. It’s such a unique plant and represents how much I’ve grown in my plant knowledge, since it’s one of the more challenging plants to care for.
NCSU Horticulture Club Blossoms at Philadelphia Flower Show North Carolina Collegiate Corner
Jodi Driedger Director of Undergraduate Programs
NC State University, Department of Horticultural Science
As a student in high school, I was fortunate enough to learn from many life-changing courses and teachers (including my agriculture teacher) and to gain experience in the FFA. The pinnacle of my experience, however, was being given a key to the school greenhouse. Although it wasn’t winning an award or earning an officer position, having that key was a special designation that required dedication, responsibility, trust and decision-making skills. Not only was it a symbolic key that opened the door to my future in the green
industry, it was also a symbol of the trust invested in me by my agriculture teacher to oversee the greenhouse and care for the plants. The life lessons and leadership skills I learned during that time remain with me today.
On March 5, a group of enthusiastic students from the North Carolina State University (NCSU) Horticulture Club embarked on a rewarding journey to the world-renowned Philadelphia Flower Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The students immersed themselves in this year’s theme, “Gardens of Tomorrow,” which provided a captivating glimpse into the future of horticulture by examining the intersection of nature and human ingenuity, highlighting sustainable practices and delving into forward-thinking horticultural concepts.
NCSU students Layla Jackson, Cora Antwelier, Deborah Kong and Norma Hernandez-Cruz attended with Jodi Driedger, Horticulture Club advisor. Cora, Deborah and Norma all serve as club officers and are very active in the organization’s day-to-day proceedings. Norma also acts as the club’s greenhouse manager, managing a team that cultivates plant material for sale to raise funds throughout the year.
The students eagerly explored the show’s many exhibits, which featured:
• Innovative designs: Cutting-edge garden designs at the show showed the students new developments in horticultural practices.
• Sustainable practices: A large portion of the show focused on how to create gardens that will be sustainable for future
A display at the grand entrance of the Philadelphia Flower Show.
From left to right, Deborah Kong, Cora Antwelier and Norma Hernandez-Cruz outside the Philadelphia Convention Center.
generations, giving the students real-world examples of concepts they are learning in the classroom.
• Diverse floral displays: Vast arrays of flowers and plants from all over the world helped broaden the students’ horticultural knowledge.
“This trip was an incredible opportunity for our students to see firsthand the latest trends and innovations in horticulture,” said Driedger. “The ’Gardens of Tomorrow’ theme was especially relevant, as it aligns with our program’s focus on sustainable and future-oriented practices.”
The students also had opportunities at the show to network with industry professionals, attend educational presentations and participate in hands-on workshops. This immersive experience provided valuable insights into the diverse career paths available in horticulture.
The visit was a resounding success, leaving the students inspired and energized to pursue their passion for plants and the environment. The NCSU Horticulture Club’s participation in the 2025 Philadelphia Flower Show exemplifies the university’s commitment to providing students with real-world learning experiences that help cultivate the next generation of horticultural leaders.
In Memoriam
Greenleaf Nursery Company Chairman and industry pioneer John T. Nickel passed away on April 19, 2025, at the age of 89. A lifelong nurseryman, John founded Greenleaf Nursery Co. at just 22 years old, growing it into one of the nation’s largest wholesale producers of shrubs, trees, and container plants, with locations in Oklahoma, Texas, and North Carolina.
John’s impact extended beyond the industry through his entrepreneurial pursuits, dedication to family, and unwavering belief in protecting the environment for future generations. He is survived by his wife Julie, five children, grandson, and more than 1,000 Greenleaf employees he considered part of his extended family.
Layla Jackson (left) and Deborah Kong (right) pose at one of the many flower-inspired photo booths.
John T. Nickel
North Carolina Irrigation Contractors’ Licensing Board
As the days lengthen and spring breathes new life into landscapes, the North Carolina Irrigation Contractors’ Licensing Board (NCICLB) is pleased to provide an update to our valued green industry professionals. Spring 2025 marks a period of continued progress and a renewed commitment to supporting the high standards upheld by professionals throughout the state.
New Licensing Exam in Action: A Foundation for Qualified Professionals
As part of our ongoing efforts to maintain the highest standards within the irrigation profession, the NCICLB has implemented a brand-new licensing examination, and we are pleased to report that this updated exam has now been successfully administered three times since November 2024. The new exam is designed to comprehensively assess the knowledge and skills necessary for competent and responsible irrigation system installation and maintenance, reflecting the evolving best practices
and technological advancements within our field.
We understand that transitioning to a new exam can present challenges, and we appreciate the professionalism and adaptability demonstrated by all candidates who have undertaken it. The NCICLB is committed to ensuring that the exam remains a fair and accurate measure of competency and will continue to monitor its effectiveness and make adjustments as necessary, with the ultimate goal of serving the best interests
of both the industry and the public. Previously, the NCICLB used the Certified Irrigation Contractor (CIC) exam for licensure. Although we no longer administer the CIC exam, we will continue to acknowledge the passing of the CIC exam as meeting the exam requirement. So, individuals who passed the CIC after November 20, 2009, qualify for licensure and do not need to additionally pass the new NCICLB exam. Qualified individuals may apply for licensure via “Previous CIC.”
Interested in becoming licensed? Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements, download the application from the NCICLB website, and submit it along with the $100 application fee and required supporting documents. Detailed application instructions and the 2025 exam schedule can be found on the NCICLB website at www.nciclb.org.
Why Get Licensed?
A current NCICLB license is legally required to operate as an irrigation contractor in North Carolina. Working without a license can result in significant fines and legal repercussions. Beyond legal compliance, licensure offers numerous benefits for individuals and businesses:
• Credibility and trust: A license signals to potential clients that you are a qualified professional with the knowledge and skills to perform irrigation work competently.
• Increased earning potential: Licensed contractors often command higher rates, due to their recognized expertise and the peace of mind they provide clients.
• Business growth: Licensing can open doors to larger projects, commercial contracts and
partnerships that may be unavailable to unlicensed individuals.
• Industry recognition: Being licensed connects you to a network of professionals and demonstrates your commitment to industry standards and best practices.
Renew Your License with Ease: Don’t Delay in Completing Continuing Education
We want to remind existing licensed contractors that the 2026 license renewal period is now underway. Recognizing the busy schedules of professionals in the field, we have made the renewal process as streamlined and convenient as possible. Licenses may be renewed at any time during the licensing year (January 1December 31) by paper renewal forms, or online through the licensee portal. Prior to being eligible to renew, individual licensees must complete the required 10 hours (6 irrigation hours and 4 business hours) of continuing education (CE).
Completing CE early or spreading it out through the year allows you to manage your renewal obligations alongside your work commitments. Remember: These CE hours are not just a requirement, but an investment in your professional growth and the advancement of the entire irrigation industry. Staying current with industry trends, new technologies and best practices through CE is essential for maintaining the high level of service North Carolinians expect and deserve.
A Thank-You to Licensees: Maintaining Industry Excellence
Finally, the NCICLB extends its sincere appreciation to each and every licensed irrigation contractor across the state. Your dedication to professionalism, ethical practices and quality workmanship is the cornerstone of a thriving irrigation industry in North Carolina. The NCICLB recognizes the hard work and commitment it takes to maintain licensure
and operate at a high standard. We are proud to partner with you in ensuring that North Carolina’s irrigation industry remains synonymous with quality, efficiency and environmental responsibility.
As we move further into 2025, the NCICLB remains dedicated to supporting your success and fostering a strong, reputable irrigation contracting community. We encourage you to stay informed, engage with industry resources and continue to be leaders in responsible water management. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to excellence in North Carolina’s irrigation industry.
Cloudburst™ Flowering Dogwood
By Dr. Thomas G. Ranney
J.C.
Mountain Crop Improvement Lab
Dept. of Horticultural Science NC State University
I once heard Dick Bir, my old friend, mentor and a former North Carolina State Nursery Extension Specialist, say, “A house isn’t your home until you plant at least one dogwood!” Agreed!
Admired worldwide, dogwoods are particularly revered here in North Carolina. As our state flower (not our state tree — that is, of course, the “pine”), Cornus florida is at home from the mountains to the coast and is the quintessential flowering tree by which all others are measured. Dogwoods are important commercial crops, too. The 2019 USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (NASS, 2020) estimated U.S. wholesale sales of dogwood to be valued at $28 million.
As beautiful as they are, Flowering Dogwoods are not without problems. They can suffer from various insects and diseases, and things got a lot worse in the late 1970s with the development/introduction of both Dogwood Anthracnose (Discula destructiva) and Powdery Mildew (Erysiphe pulchra). In North Carolina, Dogwood Anthracnose tends to be a problem at higher elevations in cool, moist, understory conditions. In one study in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, mortality of Flowering Dogwoods was as high as 94% over an approximately 20-year period, likely due to Dogwood Anthracnose (Jenkins and White, 2002). Powdery Mildew, on the other hand, is more widespread and is a persistent problem throughout the Southeastern U.S. More recently, Flowering Dogwood has also been
Raulston Distinguished Professor
A
found to be susceptible to Vascular Streak Dieback (VSD), believed to be caused by Ceratobasidium sp. (Liyanapathiranage, et al., 2025), raising additional concerns.
Back in the 2000s, after Dogwood Anthracnose had been around for a few decades, we set out to take advantage of natural selection and look for potentially resistant trees surviving in the mountains of Western North Carolina, where dogwood mortality was high. This effort involved extensive scouting, generally at elevations over 3,000 feet and in remote areas where the disease was prevalent. I got completely lost more than a few times bushwhacking through steep ravines, rhododendron hells and tear-your-ear-off catbriers. We generally did this in the spring when the trees were in bloom and easily spotted from a distance, collecting data on tree health, environmental conditions and GPS coordinates (so we could go back and collect budwood in the summer for propagation). Our efforts were successful, propagating 25 promising trees. Unfortunately, we quickly learned that when we grew those trees at lower elevations, they were generally susceptible to Powdery Mildew.
So, lacking good sources of resistance to both Dogwood Anthracnose and Powdery Mildew in Flowering Dogwood (let alone VSD), we turned to breeding. In our earlier research, we found Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa) can be resistant to both diseases (Ranney et al., 1995). Knowing that Flowering Dogwoods and Kousa Dogwoods can hybridize, we began by completing F1 hybrids between
Figure 1.
seven-year-old flowering Cloudburst™ Dogwood (Cornus ‘NCCH3’ PPAF).
particularly nice parents. Most of the hybrids were sterile, but one plant of C. kousa ‘Greensleeves’ × C. florida ‘World’s Fair’ (H2010-021-012) occasionally produced seeds. For a few years, we would move large Flowering Dogwoods into a cooler to delay their flowering, then haul them to the field surrounding H2010-021-012 when they were all blooming. After three years we had a grand total of three seedlings to show for our efforts. One of these seedlings was, however, particularly vigorous, with large, glossy leaves. We checked its ploidy (number of chromosome sets) using flow cytometry (Shearer and Ranney, 2013) and found it to be a triploid. In some cases, highly infertile wide hybrids between two species will occasionally form functional “unreduced” gametes that never go through normal meiosis. We speculate that this seedling resulted from an unreduced 2x gamete from H2010021-012 crossed with a normal reduced 1x gamete from one of our Flowering Dogwoods, making it roughly 2/3 Flowering Dogwood and 1/3 Kousa Dogwood — essentially having the look and feel of a Flowering Dogwood, but with much of the disease resistance of Kousa Dogwood.
After years of field evaluations, we came to realize this was an exceptional tree and named it Cornus ‘NCCH3’ Cloudburst™ PPAF. Cloudburst™ has some unique features. It is extremely vigorous and can grow into a branched tree of 3-4 feet from a quart-sized rooted cutting in one growing season. We’re not sure how large it might ultimately get, but our original 8-yearold is now 19 feet tall and 14 feet wide with an upright oval habit (Fig. 1) — so maybe it will be a shade tree? The foliage
is large and glossy and takes on a showy combination of yellows, oranges and reds in the fall (Figs. 2 and 3). Flowers (inflorescences) are large and can exceed 6 inches in diameter with white bracts, dimpled at the tips, much like Flowering Dogwood (Fig. 4). Although Flowering Dogwood is typically produced by budding, Cloudburst™ is easy to root from softwood cuttings. Cuttings taken in late May and treated with 7,000 ppm Auxin (2/3 KIBA + 1/3 KNAA, liquid quick dip) rooted ~81%. We overwinter cuttings in a heated polyhouse with a minimum winter temperature of ~40F with good survival. Rooted cuttings of Cloudburst™ often flower the following spring. Although Cloudburst™ has not gone through formal disease screening, we have not seen symptoms of either Powdery Mildew or Dogwood Anthracnose on our plants. Resistance to VSD is notoriously difficult to test for, but we have trees planted in a field nursery where VSD is prevalent and will be monitoring them going forward.
Time will tell how Cloudburst™ performs around the world, but we like what we’ve seen thus far. I even have planted three at our “home”!
Availability: Production of Cloudburst™ is ramping up, so availability may be limited at first. J. Frank Schmidt and Son
Figure 3. The spectacular fall color of a 6-year-old, field-grown Cloudburst™ Dogwood (Cornus ‘NCCH3’ PPA).
Figure 2. The large, clean, glossy foliage of Cloudburst™ Dogwood (Cornus ‘NCCH3’ PPAF).
Co. is managing the propagation, commercialization and licensing of Cloudburst™. Contact Jeremy Montgomery at (828) 674-3295 or jmontjfssales@gmail.com for availability. Anyone in North Carolina who is interested in a propagation license can contact Guy Meacham at GuyM@jfschmidt.com. Licensed propagators in North Carolina currently include Wind River Growers (www. wrgrowers.com, brian@wrgrowers.com or (828) 475-9345) and Superior Plants Nursery (jasonstevens00@hotmail.com or (919) 868-2463) — although they will not have plants available until 2026.
Thanks to NCNLA and J. Frank Schmidt and Son Co. for supporting the development of this tree; Joel Mowrey, Tom Eaker and Brian Upchurch for their help scouting surviving native trees; Nathan Lynch, Irene Palmer, Andra Nus, John Nix, Kim Shearer and staff at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center for making these projects possible; and the North Carolina nurseries who have helped evaluate these plants. For more information on exciting plants developed at NC State, visit https://plantbreeding.ncsu.edu/cultivars/.
Citations:
Jenkins, M.A. and P.S. White. 2002. Cornus florida L. mortality and understory composition changes in western Great Smoky Mountains National Park. J. Torrey Bot. Soc. 129(3):194-206.
Liyanapathiranage, P., F.A., Avin, J. Bonkowski, J. L. Beckerman, M. Munster, D. Hadziabdic, R.N. Trigiano, and F. Baysal-Gurel. 2025, Vascular streak dieback: A novel threat to redbud and other woody ornamental production in the United States. https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-04-24-0905-FE.
NASS (National Agricultural Statistics Service. 2020. 2019 Census of horticultural specialties. 3(3). AC-17-SS-3. https://www.nass. usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2017/Online_Resources/Census_ of_Horticulture_Specialties/HORTIC.pdf
Ranney, T.G., L.F. Grand, and J.L. Knighten. 1995. Susceptibility of cultivar and hybrids of kousa dogwood to dogwood anthracnose and powdery mildew. J. Arboriculture. 21(1):11-16.
Shearer, K. and T.G. Ranney. 2013. Ploidy levels and relative genome sizes of species, hybrids, and cultivars of dogwood (Cornus spp.). HortScience 48(7):825-830. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.48.7.825.
Figure 4. The large, white bracts and inflorescences of Cloudburst™ Dogwood (Cornus ‘NCCH3’ PPAF).
Keeping Purple Loosestrife in Check: A Community Effort
Jarred Driscoll Regulatory Weed Program Manager NCDA&CS — Plant Industry Division
With its vivid purple blooms and long-lasting flowers, it’s easy to see why purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria, PLS) was once a favorite in the nursery trade. Introduced to the United States from Europe in the early 1800s, this hardy perennial quickly gained popularity for its ornamental appeal (Figure 1). However, while celebrated for its beauty, PLS proved to be a vigorous spreader, outcompeting native species and disrupting delicate ecosystems.
Beekeepers also favored PLS for its nectar production, which contributed to its spread. Over time, PLS proliferated across the northern half of the U.S. and eventually made its way into North Carolina. The plant thrives in transition zones between wet and dry areas and has the capacity to produce 2-3 million seeds per plant each season.
PLS now shares a cautionary tale with other once-coveted, now-regulated plants, including yellow floating heart (Nymphoides peltata), beach vitex (Vitex rotundifolia), and cultivated varieties of cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) like Japanese Bloodgrass and Red Baron. While these plants may have once had a place in the garden, their aggressive nature has led to restrictions — reminding us that not all beauty belongs in the landscape.
Steve Troxler, Commissioner
Efforts to control PLS in North Carolina date back to the early 1990s, when its rapid spread began disrupting native plant communities. Like many noxious weeds, PLS thrives at
the expense of native species, displacing essential plants and, in turn, pushing out the animals and insects that rely on those plants. This domino effect can lead to drastic ecosystem changes, altering the delicate balance of transition zones between water and dry land.
Recognizing the threat, the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) officially listed PLS as a regulated plant in 1993, making it illegal to buy, sell, propagate or transport within the state. While regulation is an important first step, ongoing management of infestations in natural environments remains essential for preserving North Carolina’s biodiversity and ecosystem health.
PLS infestations are commonly found along utility rights-of-way, particularly beneath power lines and other areas where ground disturbance is frequent. This pattern aligns with the plant’s well-documented ability to thrive in disturbed environments.
Records from the NCDA&CS indicate that PLS was first observed along roadsides in Guilford and Forsyth counties in 1991 and 1992, respectively. More than 30 years later, while the Guilford County infestation has been successfully eradicated, efforts to manage PLS in Forsyth County continue, with populations steadily declining.
Smaller PLS detections in Mecklenburg, Mitchell and Watauga counties also have been eliminated.
Managing PLS in Henderson County remains particularly challenging, however, and recent surveys and citizen reports have uncovered new dense and widespread infestation pockets on both public and private lands (Figure 2).
Figure 1. Purple loosestrife in bloom.
Adding to these challenges, in late 2024 Hurricane Helene dropped more than 20 inches of rain, creating ideal conditions for further seed dispersal and establishment. The long-term impact of this extreme weather event on the spread of PLS is still unfolding. In a recent YouTube video shared by a colleague, a kayaker was seen during Hurricane Helene floating through an area at Johnson Airfield in Hendersonville, NC (Figure 3) — a site that has been infested with PLS for more than a decade, highlighting its persistent nature. Unfortunately, storms like Helene will likely play a significant role in the future spread of PLS seed.
Our primary goal in managing noxious weeds is eradication, a term that carries significant weight in regulatory work. True eradication means ensuring that the plant will never return to the location on its own unless reintroduced through human activity, weather or wildlife. This level of control is both timeintensive and costly, requiring multiple treatments each year over the course of many years.
PLS is a formidable opponent due to its prolific seed production and long-lived seed bank, making complete eradication a challenge. Herbicides remain the most effective and efficient method
planted in the landscape, offered for sale in the nursery trade or appearing in new infestations in unmanaged areas. Early detection is key, and with a statewide cooperative effort, newly emerging PLS populations stand a much greater chance of being swiftly controlled — or, better yet, eradicated — ensuring that our landscapes remain diverse and healthy for years to come.
Key identification factors for PLS include an upright form with woody, square stems reaching heights of 5 feet or more. Leaves are lance-shaped (lanceolate), are sessile with opposite arrangement, have smooth margins and measure 2-5 inches in length. Vibrant reddish-purple flowers occur on crowded spikes throughout the summer and into fall, forming distinct spikes at the top of the plant.
of control. However, an Integrated Pest Management approach, which includes biological control methods, is also being explored — particularly in areas where treatment is challenging due to location and limited access. A proactive approach will help prevent further spread and reduce seed bank persistence. With that in mind, increased awareness and community involvement are key parts of effective eradication measures for PLS in North Carolina.
Green industry professionals can help by keeping an eye out for PLS
Some lookalikes include fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium), blue vervain (Verbena hastata) and a native Lythrum species (Lythrum alatum) that is legal to grow.
If you find Lythrum salicaria or see it in the landscape, please report your findings to Jarred Driscoll, NCDA&CS – Plant Industry Division Weed Program Manager, at Jarred.Driscoll@ncar.gov or 919-707-3741. Images and the location of any new noxious weed or regulated pest of concern can be reported by emailing newpest@ncagr.gov.
Figure 3. Mark Honeycutt paddles his kayak near an area infested with purple loosestrife. This screenshot was taken from his YouTube posting.
Figure 2. A new cluster of purple loosestrife plants behind residences in Henderson County.
Farm Transition and Succession Planning for
Greenhouse and Nursery Growers
By Stacey Jones
Area Specialized Agent –Greenhouse and Nursery Crops
Extension
Transitioning a greenhouse or nursery business to the next generation is a complex yet essential process that helps guarantee the operation’s long-term success. A thoughtfully crafted succession plan safeguards the business’s legacy and ensures financial stability for both retiring owners and their successors. Below are key considerations for greenhouse and nursery growers when planning for transition and succession.
Start Planning Early
Succession planning should begin years before retirement or transition. Early planning allows for smoother decisionmaking, financial structuring and knowledge transfer. It also provides time to mentor and train the next generation in both the technical and managerial aspects of running a successful greenhouse or nursery.
Identify a Successor
Choosing the right successor is one of the most important decisions in farm transition. The successor may be a family member, a trusted employee or an external buyer. Regardless, assessing the successor’s skills, commitment and willingness to assume responsibility is crucial.
Establish a Financial Plan
A robust financial plan is crucial to facilitate a fair and sustainable transition. This involves organizing the business to reduce tax liabilities, establishing buy-out agreements and resolving outstanding debts. Engaging with financial and legal experts can assist in crafting a plan that benefits both the retiring owner and the successor.
Legal Considerations
Proper legal documentation, such as wills, trusts and business agreements, should be established to ensure a seamless transition. Clear ownershiptransfer agreements can help prevent disputes, while clarifying responsibilities
and future business operations. The North Carolina Agromedicine Institute (https://ncfarmstress.org/ funding/) offers a mini-grant to assist operations with these expenses.
Knowledge Transfer and Training
A greenhouse or nursery business requires specialized knowledge in crop production, pest management, marketing and customer relationships. A structured knowledge transfer plan that includes mentoring, hands-on experience and incremental decisionmaking authority will help prepare the successor for long-term success. Watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Kx1Hx3_XtzE to learn about how one North Carolina greenhouse business accomplished this.
Communication and Family Dynamics
Open and honest communication is key to avoiding conflicts during the transition. If family members are involved, addressing concerns, expectations and financial arrangements up front can prevent misunderstandings and foster a cooperative transition process.
Exploring Alternative Transition Models
If no successor has been identified, alternative transition options — such as selling to a business partner, employees or an external buyer — should be explored.
Why Farm Transition Planning Matters
Farm transition planning is a critical issue in agriculture today. The average age of farmers in North Carolina is 58, and the state is projected to lose 1.2 million acres of farmland by 2040 — ranking second in the nation, after Texas, in terms of loss. With these challenges in mind, North Carolina State University launched NC FarmLink in 2018 to help address farm transition issues. NC FarmLink connects farmers, landowners and service providers to valuable farm transition resources.
In 2022, NC FarmLink partnered with the International Farm Transition Network to provide training for farm transition coordinators. Since farm transition was a topic with which growers in my region needed assistance, I took the training. This course emphasized the complexities of farm transition, prompting me to pursue further learning and deeper engagement in the field. Here are some key takeaways from my recent years of study:
1. Facing the reality: Many people avoid planning for farm transition because it involves thinking about death. However, ensuring that a plan is in place makes life easier for those left behind and increases the likelihood of business continuity. Without a plan, grieving families may be forced to make rushed decisions, and the business may be at risk from opportunistic bad actors.
2. Seeking professional guidance: NC FarmLink’s farm transition coordinators provide free consultations to assist farmers in the planning process. These coordinators can help growers identify the right questions to ask before consulting paid professionals like attorneys, accountants and financial advisors.
3. Finding the right attorney: It is crucial to collaborate with an attorney who understands agriculture. Interview several attorneys and request referrals
from other growers, local extension offices or the Farm Bureau.
4. Creating a will or trust: While wills are simpler, trusts provide greater protection by avoiding probate, preventing forced buyouts, and safeguarding assets from potential lawsuits and long-term care costs.
5. Organizing business documents: Keeping all essential documents — such as a list of buyers, account numbers and insurance policies — in one accessible place helps ensure a smoother transition. Designating beneficiaries on insurance policies and bank accounts prevents delays in fund distribution.
Conclusion
Farm transition and succession planning are not just about handing over the reins — they’re about ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the greenhouse or nursery business. By starting early, making informed financial and legal decisions, and fostering a strong successor, growers can secure their legacy while setting up the next generation for success.
NC FarmLink (https://ncfarmlink. ces.ncsu.edu/) offers invaluable support to farmers in North Carolina as they navigate this process. Whether they are looking for land, planning to retire, or seeking legal and financial guidance, NC FarmLink can be a vital resource for ensuring a smooth and successful transition.
Resources
www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/ AgCensus/2022/Full_Report/Volume_1, _Chapter_1_State_Level/North_Carolina/ st37_1_052_052.pdf www.ncagr.gov/adfp www.fbfs.com/learning-center/ what-you-need-to-know-about-farmsuccession-planning farmlaw.ces.ncsu.edu farmlaw.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/ uploads/2019/09/GREENFIELDS. PFYF_.2018.MASTER-PDF-forPrinting.pdf?fwd=no farms.extension.wisc.edu/articles/ things-to-consider-for-succession-planning www.farmtransition.org
Back to Basics:
Understanding North Carolina State Government and NCNLA’s
Advocacy for Our Industry
By Anna Scott Marsh Barefoot Partner, NC Capitol Strategies
Advocacy plays a crucial role in ensuring the success and longevity of North Carolina’s nursery and landscape industry. With state policies impacting everything from environmental regulations to labor laws, it is essential for professionals in the green industry to engage with lawmakers and help shape the policies that affect their businesses. This article will provide a foundational overview of the North Carolina state legislative process and highlight ways industry professionals can get involved.
What is a Political Action Committee (PAC)?
A PAC is an organization that collects voluntary contributions from individuals to support political candidates or causes aligned with a particular industry or interest group. PACs play a key role in influencing public policy by helping to elect officials who support the priorities of their contributors. PACs can only accept personal (not corporate) contributions, which are publicly disclosed on the North Carolina State Board of Elections database, much like direct candidate contributions. PACs in North Carolina are regulated by state campaign finance laws that set contribution limits and reporting requirements. Contributions from PACs help fund candidates’ campaigns, providing them with the resources necessary to run for office and advocate for policies beneficial to an industry. PACs can contribute directly to candidates, within the contribution limits, or pay expenses (not in collaboration with the candidate) to run industry-based ads highlighting something a candidate has done to help the industry (example: Senator John Smith could only receive $6,400 per cycle from an association PAC, or an in-kind contribution limit if the PAC decided to run supportive ads for Sen. John Smith).
NCNLA actively participates in the political process by supporting candidates who understand the challenges and opportunities facing nursery and landscape businesses. Industry professionals can contribute to NCNLA’s PAC, ensuring that pro-green industry candidates receive the support they need to advance policies favorable to the industry. NCNLA’s Legislative Committee oversees candidate support, which is voted on within the committee. Staying engaged with legislative issues
and contributing to a PAC are critical ways for green industry professionals to influence public policy. Lawmakers rely on industry experts to provide insight into how proposed regulations will impact businesses, making advocacy an essential part of long-term industry success.
Understanding North Carolina State Government
North Carolina’s government is composed of three branches:
Executive Branch: Led by the governor, this branch includes various state agencies that oversee regulations impacting the green industry, such as the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Department of Environmental Quality.
Legislative Branch: The North Carolina General Assembly consists of the House of Representatives (120 members) and the Senate (50 members). These legislators introduce and vote on bills that affect state policy. As of this publication, Republicans have a majority but are one member short of a supermajority — so if any governor vetoes need to be overridden, at least one Democrat is required to overturn.
Judicial Branch: State courts interpret laws and settle legal disputes, including cases related to environmental policies and business regulations.
Understanding the legislative process is crucial for effective advocacy. The typical steps for a bill to become law in North Carolina include:
Bill Introduction: A legislator drafts and files a bill. There are staff that draft bills for legislators, and this can sometimes run on a delay due to all of the bills that are requested for drafting at the beginning of a session.
Committee Review: The bill is assigned to a committee for study, where industry groups can provide input. There is no exact
timeline for the review process, given that the legislature and committees can only take up so many bills in a week’s time. A number of subject-area committees exist, and certain bills are required to go through three or more committees, including finance or appropriations committees for all bills touching any sort of money or fee.
House and Senate Votes: If approved by the committee, the bill moves to the full chamber for debate and voting. We call this “session,” which may cause confusion, given that we refer to “legislative session” as the period of time we’re actively meeting in Raleigh. “Session,” by contrast, occurs daily when the Senate or House gavels into the chamber when in town. This is usually announced the day before.
Governor’s Approval: Once both chambers pass a bill, it goes to the governor, who can sign or veto it. If the governor does not sign or veto it within 10 days, it automatically passes.
Advocacy groups like NCNLA play a key role in shaping policy by engaging with legislators, testifying in committee hearings and mobilizing grassroots support.
In the North Carolina General Assembly, bill deadlines are critical dates that dictate when legislators must submit proposed legislation for consideration during a session. These deadlines ensure an organized and efficient legislative process by allowing adequate time for drafting, review, debate and voting on proposed laws. For the 2025 legislative session, the key deadlines are as follows:
February 27, 2025: Senate bill drafting deadline
March 6, 2025: House bill drafting deadline
March 25, 2025: Senate bill filing deadline
April 3, 2025: House bill filing deadline
May 8, 2025: Bill crossover deadline
The “crossover deadline” is particularly significant; this is the date by which a bill must pass in its chamber of origin (either the House or the Senate) and move to the other chamber for consideration. Missing this deadline typically means the bill will not advance during the current session. Understanding these deadlines is essential for effective advocacy, as they influence the timing and strategy of engaging with legislators on issues pertinent to the nursery and landscape industry.
In North Carolina, the state operates on a biennial budget, with the fiscal year commencing on July 1. While there is no statutory deadline for the General Assembly to enact a new budget, the target is typically July 31 to ensure seamless government operations. However, in recent years, budgets have often been enacted later than this target. For instance, the 2023 budget was notably extensive, spanning 1,411 pages — nearly double the length of the state budget just 12 years prior — and taking five days to read aloud. Delays in budget approval can lead to the adoption of interim budgets to maintain government functions.
The budget also includes provisions for capital expenditures that cover long-term investments in infrastructure and facilities. These provisions allow for the inclusion of specific policy changes or funding allocations within the broader budget legislation.
Advocacy groups like NCNLA can influence these provisions by
April 29, 2025 – Legislative Day at the Capitol: (Left to right) Kurt Bland, David Hoffman, Mark Metzler, Katie Bennett, Nate Negrin, Sen. Graig Meyer, Dana Massey, Mark Yelanich, Gary Whitehurst, Ariel Montanez.
engaging with legislators to incorporate language that benefits the green industry. This underscores the importance of active participation in the budget process to ensure that industry priorities are addressed.
Budget talks are anticipated to really heat up by the end of April/sometime in May.
How to Stay Informed
To remain proactive and prepared, industry professionals should regularly monitor legislative developments through NCNLA newsletters, state government websites and trusted industry publications.
Staying informed ensures that businesses can quickly adapt and respond to policy changes that may affect their operations.
Building strong relationships with local lawmakers is essential to effective advocacy. Reaching out to state representatives to establish personal connections, attending legislative receptions and town halls, and inviting lawmakers to visit nurseries or landscape businesses are all impactful ways to demonstrate the real-world implications of legislation. One such opportunity was the Legislative Day reception hosted by NCNLA on April 29 from 6:00-8:00 PM at the Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh.
Supporting the NCNLA PAC is another meaningful way to contribute to advocacy efforts. Donations to the PAC help support candidates who prioritize policies that benefit the nursery and landscape industry, ensuring that the industry’s voice is heard in legislative decision-making.
Participation in NCNLA’s legislative initiatives also strengthens the industry’s influence at the state level. These efforts include Advocacy Days, which bring professionals to the state capitol to meet directly with lawmakers; grassroots campaigns that mobilize members to take action on key issues; and coordinated letter-writing efforts to express support for or concerns to policymakers. Each of these activities empowers industry members to be active participants in shaping a favorable regulatory environment.
Your Lobbyist and Advocate: Representing NCNLA in Raleigh
The NCNLA lobbyist, Anna Scott Marsh Barefoot, serves as the dedicated advocate for the nursery and landscape industry at the North Carolina General Assembly. Having a registered lobbyist is essential, as state ethics laws require formal representation to engage directly with lawmakers, making official requests and influencing legislation on behalf of an
Lunch during Legislative Day on April 29, 2025: (Left side, front to back) Rep. Jeffrey McNeely, Nate Negrin, Mark Yelanich, Ariel Montanez; (Right side, front to back) Mark Metzler, Gary Whitehurst, Dana Massey, Katie Bennett.
April 29, 2025 – Legislative Day at the Capitol: (Left to right) Ariel Montanez, David Hoffman, Dana Massey, Mark Yelanich, Nate Negrin, Rep. Mike Schietzelt, Gary Whitehurst, Katie Bennett, Kurt Bland, Mark Metzler.
organization. Without a lobbyist, industry voices could go unheard in critical policy discussions.
Anna Scott is in Raleigh daily tracking vital legislation, attending committee meetings and engaging with legislators so that NCNLA members don’t have to navigate the complex legislative process alone. This constant presence ensures that industry priorities remain front and center in policy debates. Her deep, long-standing relationships with lawmakers provide NCNLA with direct access to decision-makers, allowing for more effective advocacy and real-time responses to legislative developments.
Ethical advocacy is at the heart of effective lobbying. North Carolina enforces strict regulations on lobbying activities, including registration, reporting, and compliance with gift and contribution limits. Transparency and integrity guide every interaction, ensuring that NCNLA’s efforts are based on industry expertise, factual information and the collective interests of its members.
Beyond the state level, the NCNLA Legislative Committee remains dedicated to monitoring federal legislation that could influence the horticulture industry here in North Carolina. In an effort to keep members informed of key federal activity, NCNLA is proud to announce a new member benefit: automatic enrollment in the AmericanHort Lighthouse Program.
Through this exciting partnership, NCNLA members will now receive The Lighthouse Newsletter, which provides regular email updates designed to keep you informed and engaged with the legislative and regulatory issues that directly impact your business. The newsletter gives timely legislative alerts, helping you stay ahead of policy changes, and delivers industry insights that shed light on how decisions made in Washington, DC, affect your day-to-day operations.
AmericanHort stands out as the only broad-based national horticulture trade association with a professional advocacy team based in the nation’s capital. Their deep industry knowledge and ongoing commitment to representing plant breeders, growers, landscape professionals, garden retailers and suppliers make this new member benefit a valuable resource for staying connected and informed at the federal level.
Legislative advocacy is essential for protecting and advancing the interests of North Carolina’s nursery and landscape industry. By staying informed, engaging with lawmakers, supporting the NCNLA PAC and participating in advocacy initiatives, industry professionals can help shape a policy environment that fosters growth and sustainability. NCNLA remains committed to being the voice of the green industry in Raleigh, and your involvement is key to ensuring a strong future for our businesses.
In order to advocate legislatively for the needs of the nursery and landscape industry, the “three P’s” are needed: people, passion and a PAC. If any of these components is missing, we will struggle to be successful. The NCNLA PAC financially supports our engagement with legislators and other elected state officials. Whenever a representative from NCNLA attends a campaign event, or whenever we host a legislative reception, the PAC covers those expenses. Asking industry stakeholders to support our PAC can be challenging, as contributions have to be personal in nature and not from a business. However, if it’s important to you to have relationships already in place when legislation comes up that directly impacts your business, then the value and return on investment for contributions is clear. Establishing legislative relationships and developing trust before a crisis both increase our chances of successful advocacy. The most recent example was our advocacy for aid on behalf of affected members in Western North Carolina. Fortunately, we had already developed key relationships to enable us to have the conversations about what was needed.
We have an excellent NCNLA Legislative Committee in place to represent multiple segments of our industry, and I am proud to say that this group covers the two of the three P’s — people and passion — I mentioned earlier. That leaves financially supporting the PAC as our most pressing need. If having a strong voice in Raleigh for our industry is a priority for you, we strongly encourage and appreciate any support you can provide to the NCNLA PAC. To those of you who have already contributed, I would like to say a heartfelt thank-you and that I am humbled by the trust you have in us.
Kind regards,
Gary Whitehurst NCNLA Legislative Committee Chair
Gary Whitehurst
NCNLAPAC
The NCNLA Political Action Committee (PAC) represents the interests of the nursery and landscape industry at the state capitol in Raleigh, NC.
NCNLA-PAC 2025 Contribution Form
Complete and return this form with payment. Contributions are for the 2025 calendar year. Contributions must be made by personal check (no company checks), personal credit card or personal bank draft. PAC funds are used to support candidates for state elective office who share NCNLA’s policy goals and understand the importance of maintaining a positive legislative environment for the green industry. Thank you for your contribution!
Legacy Society
Annually ($6,400)
Advocate Club
Annually ($500)
Capitol Society
Annually ($4,500)
Bicentennial Club
Annually ($200)
President’s Circle
Annually ($2,500)
Century Club
Annually ($100)
My payment is by: Personal check (payable to “NCNLA-PAC”) Amount: $ Personal credit card/bank draft Amount: $
Please provide the following information:
Name:
Address:
Employer/Company Name:
Phone:
Email:
City, State Zip:
Job Title:
Other $ Champion’s Circle
Annually ($1,000)
All contributions must be from a personal account. We cannot accept company/corporate checks or credit cards. If you are contributing using your credit card or bank draft, you will be invoiced electronically at the email address you provided. If contributing by check, please make personal checks payable to NCNLA-PAC and mail to: NCNLA-PAC, 968 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC 27607. If submitting this form electronically, please email it to kstansbury@ncnla.com.
North Carolina law requires political action committees to report the name, mailing address, job title and name of employer for each individual whose contributions total in excess of $50.00 in an election (defined as the period beginning the day after the general election up to and including the primary and the period beginning the day after the primary up to and including the general election). Contributors may not give more than $6,400 per election. Contributions are not tax deductible for federal or state income tax purposes.
CAGLE
Lochmere Golf Club
Cary, NC
Monday, June 23, 2025
9:00 AM Shotgun Start
Golfers of all skill levels are invited to participate in the 2025 Robert Cagle Memorial Golf Tournament on June 23. The day will include a round of golf, lunch, and an awards ceremony. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, there’s something for everyone at the Robert Cagle Memorial Golf Tournament.
For details and sponsorship opportunities, visit ncnla.com.
NCNLA
ROBERT CAGLE MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
Lochmere Golf Club
2511 Kildaire Farm Rd. Cary, NC 27511
Monday, June 23, 2025
9:00 AM Shotgun Start Awards lunch to follow tournament
PLAYER & SPONSOR REGISTRATION
I want to support the 2025 Robert Cagle Memorial Golf Tournament and help raise money for the NCNLA scholarship fund through the following selection(s):
$475 Foursome w/Mulligan Package*
$575 Foursome w/Mulligan Package* + Hole Sponsor
$125 Individual Player w/Mulligan Package*
$250 Hole Sponsor (non-exclusive)
$250 Closest to the Pin Sponsor (sponsor to provide prize)**
$250 Longest Drive Sponsor (sponsor to provide prize)**
$250 Longest Putt Sponsor (sponsor to provide prize)**
$500 Breakfast Sponsor
$500 Lunch Sponsor (reserved for Annual Sponsors only)
$750 Beverage Cart Sponsor (1 exclusive opportunity available)
$250 Provide your own giveaway (examples: branded golf balls, t-shirts, towels, golf tees, koozies, etc.). Contact Kathryn Stansbury at kstansbury@ncnla.com to confirm what you will be providing.
* Mulligan package: two mulligans, one throw and one tee buster
** If you are interested in having a presence at the hole (table, banner, etc.), there is a $500 add-on fee.
Company Name
Email (required)
Address
Golfer Name
Golfer Name
Golfer Name
Golfer Name
9:00 AM
