Groundswell | October 2020

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CONTENTS

Volume 31 Number 10 October 2020 PUBLISHER NURSERY & GARDEN INDUSTRY VICTORIA

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PRESIDENT Simon Gomme CEO Craig Taberner

CONTENTS

CONTRIBUTORS Simon Gomme, Leigh

3 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Siebler, Craig Taberner, Matt Ross, John

4 CEO’S MESSAGE

Stanley

6 SUPPORTING OUR PARTNERS

ADVERTISING NGIV T: (03) 9576 0599

11 SPRING HAS SPRUNG, BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT

ADDRESS Unit 3, 307 Wattletree Road,

12 WHAT’S TRENDING IN THE WORLD OF PLANTS

Malvern East VIC 3145.

15 SAFETY SOLUTIONS IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND

MAILING ADDRESS

16 T&SG: POST COVID-19 HORTICULTURE WITH DR CHARLIE HALL

Malvern East VIC 3145.

P.O. Box 2280, Wattletree Road LPO,

TELEPHONE (03) 9576 0599

19 KEY SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES IDENTIFIED

FAX (03) 9576 0431

21 RESTLESS GARDENING SYNDROME

EMAIL ngiv@ngiv.com.au

23 GROW YOUR RETAIL BUSINESS

www.ngiv.com.au

25 NOTIFY WORKSAFE OF COVID-19 CASES 25 NEXTGEN: ADELE LACIS

FINISHED ART Vale Graphics Our front cover: Salvia Purple & Bloom Contact Tony Collins: 0402 155 356 www.ballaustralia.com

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M: 0409 88 77 06 E: angie@valegraphics.com.au PRINTING Norwood Industries 6 Wedgewood Road, Hallam VIC 3803.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Simon Gomme President, NGIV Spring has sprung, and like the rest of 2020, it is not as we know it. Whilst the demand for plantlife is stronger than ever, our ability to service that demand remains restricted by our retailers having limited trading options and our growers struggling to catch up following the winter boom.

Although these factors are less than ideal, I would point towards what is happening interstate and overseas, and encourage you to focus on what lies ahead.

The impact that the pandemic is having on the public’s desire to garden is extremely positive; more and more people are seeking the benefits of gardening and plantlife. And whilst it’s hard to look beyond the right now, once restrictions ease there is a whole new customer base that will have tasted the joys of gardening and breathe new life into our industry.

Research from the UK suggests that almost three million new gardeners sprung up this year as a result of lockdown. And it’s a different customer, with nearly half of them aged under 45.

Our interstate peers too are reporting unprecedented growth and sales, soon it will be our time to enjoy the fruits of a new appreciation for gardening.

The significant blip that is 2020, could soon be replaced by a boom that becomes the new normal for years to come.

And speaking of normal, it’s exciting to be able to look forward to this year’s Australian Horticultural Trials Week. It’s a major event in Australia’s horticultural calendar and a wonderful showcase for what Victoria’s top breeders, growers and allied businesses have to offer.

I’ve never been in any doubt that our industry is made up of resilient, resourceful, passionate individuals, and those qualities will see us bounce back from this stronger than ever.

Simon Gomme President, NGIV Powerplants Australia

2020 AUSTRALIAN HORTICULTURAL

TRIALS WEEK 1 – 4 DECEMBER

NGIV is proud to partner with Australia’s top breeders and growers for the Australian Horticultural Trials 2020.

Trials Week encompasses multiple events at various locations in Victoria showcasing the very latest innovations in container, bedding, indoor and outdoor plants.

We’re looking forward to a fantastic event with on-site experiences and online offerings to enjoy the week wherever you are.

We’ll update you with all the details as we continue to gear up for this year’s trials.

Visit www.ngiv.com.au for more details.

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CEO’S MESSAGE

Craig Taberner CEO, NGIV I was extremely disappointed with the Premier's roadmap to reopening announcement on Sunday 6th September and particularly the impact it will have on our retail members. And whilst the feeling of frustration is still present, now is the time to roll up our sleeves, do what we can to minimise the impact and look towards a brighter future.

Our inclusion in the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions ‘Retail Industry Reference group’, the Department of Agriculture’s ‘Agricultural Task Force’ and an ongoing dialogue with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce, is grounds for optimism and gives us a voice in the reopening conversation.

We will continue to use that voice to represent the needs of our industry and keep you all informed. I know this is a really difficult time for many of you and we want to assure you we are doing everything we can to support Victorian retail garden centres and nurseries, in this difficult moment.

It’s been heartening to see the steady decline of COVID positive cases in Victoria and it’s hard not to look towards a very busy and bright end of 2020 and beyond. For me personally, it’ll be wonderful to see the latest innovations from Victoria’s horticulture industry at Trials Week and to get everyone back under the roof at Caribbean Gardens for what will be a busy first Trade Day back.

The continued support and positivity from our members and partners, reminds me of what a special industry this is and how lucky we all are to be part of it. I’d also like to thank the NGIV Board for their continued commitment and input to help guide us through the pandemic with a clear focus and strategy.

Stay strong, stay focused and stay positive, I believe the future is very bright once we get through this difficult moment.

Craig Taberner CEO, NGIV

PREMIUM GROWING MEDIA

QUALITY LANDSCAPE PRODUCTS

SUSTAINABLE BIOMASS FUELS

ORGANIC RESOURCE RECOVERY

HORTICULTURAL MULCHES & COMPOSTS

TRANSPORT SERVICES

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Michelle Torcasio 0400 535 752 Michael Patten 0455 216 287 Melbourne Office, 80-82 Ordish Road Dandenong South, Victoria 3175 Toll Free Number: 1800 Bio Gro (1800 246 476)

biogro.com.au 04

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Improved genetics drives sales growth Along with most major plant categories, sales of Helix Australia Waxflower and Boronia have been very strong over the last six months as consumers flocked to garden centres during the Covid crisis.

This season Helix Australia supplied over twenty hybrid selections of Waxflower and two hybrid Boronias to growers across both the east and west coasts of Australia. The demand was so strong that a large percentage of Helix Australia hybrids were sold slightly under size and also many were sold with no flower or buds showing.

“The value of strong flower images was clearly evident this season and our plant labels were able to perform strongly at the point of sale where most consumer purchase decisions are made,” said Adrian Parsons, Managing Director, Helix Australia.

“Immij have done a fantastic job providing striking flower images for our plant labels and to witness completely green Boronias flying off the shelf in April and May with no flower show was amazing,” he said Parsons continued, “We are also getting strong feedback from our growers and trade partners that there is scope to be selling Waxflower pots throughout summer and autumn so we will start to adjust our propagation cycle to help service this new demand opportunity.”

Native Plant Wholesalers in Mount Gambier, S.A. is a licensed grower of Helix Australia Waxflower and Boronia.

Nursery Manager Jason Dawe said the demand for all natives lines was the best he has seen in his twenty plus years in the industry.

“The range of colours,forms and flowering periods in the Helix Australia range is highly rated by our retail clients and we look forward to expanding our volumes in these exciting genetics in the coming years,” said Dawe.

Helix Australia continues to invest in on going breeding programmes with Kings Park & Botanic Garden which will continue to provide a steady pipeline of new Waxflower and Boronia hybrids in the coming years.

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FEATURE: NGIV : GCP PARTNERSHIPS

Supporting our partners At NGIV we see our partnerships as an extension of ourselves. Our partners lead the way in delivering excellence; executing plans and delivering projects that permeate and benefit the entire industry.

As an association, we would not be able to provide the level of service and member benefits that we currently do without their generous support and ongoing commitment.

As an industry we are collectively indebted to them and the work they do; that’s why we would ask you to seek out opportunities to show them your support.

Now more than ever, we must show solidarity and acknowledge that we are all growing this industry together.

We’d like to extend our enormous gratitude to all of our partners; welcoming the new and thanking all those that have recommitted. We couldn’t do what we do without your help.

By way of introduction, meet our partners:

NORWOOD INDUSTRIES norwood.com.au If you’re in need of ANY printing, Norwood can help! From horticultural plant tags and digital printing services to royalty services and everything in between, we work closely with the industry to figure out their exact needs to develop both outstanding and practical results. Norwood leads the way with specialised printing methods, including UV printing and can print on most types of materials. Norwood is based in Melbourne and we are able to help businesses all over Australia.

So no matter what printing service you require, give us a call and see the difference Norwood can make for you today.

GARDEN CITY PLASTICS gardencityplastics.com National manufacturers of the largest range of horticultural containers from tubes to advanced tubs, hanging baskets, flower buckets and accessories. Distributors of a massive range of allied products including peat, coir, Osmocote and other fertilisers, beneficials, crop protectants, growth stimulants, woven bags, large containers, watering and spray equipment.

MAJOR CORPORATE

INDUSTRY PARTNERS

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PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

FEATURE: NGIV PARTNERSHIPS u

DIACO’S GARDEN NURSERY diacos.com.au

BALL AUSTRALIA ballaustralia.com Seed distribution and plug specialists of vegetative, tissue culture, annuals, perennials, cut flowers and vegetable varieties. Marketers of Simply Beautiful & Natures DĂŠcor brands. Leader in new plant introductions and promotions in the Australian market.

Diaco's is a Victorian-based garden nursery with four stores across Melbourne and Geelong. They have plans in the pipeline for the 5th site in Burwood. They have a small growing division that supplies about 20% of their stores. Diaco's have also has established partnerships with over 100 production and wholesale nurseries. They believe that customer service is the key to a successful business. With over 220,000 visitors and growing to their website, Diaco's is the standout example of what consistent marketing can do for the industry.

AUSTRALIAN GROWING SOLUTIONS agsolutions.net.au Market leader in the supply and development of premium grade growing media. At the forefront of potting mix development they can tailor a blend to perfectly meet your requirements.

GALLAGHER ajg.com.au Specialist insurance provider for the nursery and garden industry. Offer a wide range of cover to suit the specialised needs of our members. u

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FEATURE: NGIV PARTNERSHIPS u

BOTANIX

JFT NURSERIES

POWERPLANTS

botanixplantsupply.com.au

jftnurseries.com.au

powerplants.com.au

Wholesale nursery dedicated to the production of high quality trees and shrubs at competitive prices. We supply a broad range of native, exotic, deciduous and evergreen stock to commercial and domestic landscapers, contractors, developers and brokers.

Desire to deliver the finest quality trees to our customers and to set new benchmarks in growing trees.

Grow an extensive range of fruiting trees, flowering trees, deciduous ornamentals and weeping and standard trees. Maintain complete grading and quality control of their trees which are all sold bare rooted through June, July and August.

Powerplants is the leading source of Greenhouse Technology in Australia. Offer a wide variety of products and service in horticultural technology, operating in all sectors of the horticulture industry. Manufacture technology supplies and accessories locally in Australia in their own premises to provide our customers with innovative tailored solutions.

GREENHILLS PROPAGATION NURSERY

HUMPHRIS NURSERY

greenhillspropagation.com.au

humphris.com.au

Specialists in the production and supply of the highest quality tube and plug stock. Greenhills Propagation Nursery is accredited to send to all states of Australia and grows a wide range of general lines including trees, shrubs, perennials and grasses; Greenhills also propagate an extensive range of protected, exclusive and promotional lines from breeders around the world.

Greenhills Propagation Nursery is proud to hold NIASA and EcoHort accreditation.

Large production nursery cared for by five generations of the Humphris family making it one of the oldest continuously registered wholesale nurseries in Australia. Premium grafted and exclusive plant lines, supplying over one million plants to the retail, council and landscape trade annually, Humphris grows 95% of their our own lines ensuring total quality control.

VAN SCHAIK’S

MONBULK RURAL

biogro.com.au

HELIX AUSTRALIA

monbulkrural.com.au

helixaustralia.com.au

A market leader in the development and manufacture of specialist growing and mulching mediums, soil conditioners and biological growth stimulants, perfectly tailored for use in a wide range of horticultural applications.

Trades primarily in commercial greenhouses and associated equipment and horticultural products. Provides crop protection to all areas of horticulture and agriculture, including flower growers, nurseries, hydroponic growers, the wine industry and orchardists.

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Breeder and distributor of hybrid Waxflower varieties including Dancing Queen, My Sweet 16 Moonlight Delight, Sarah's Delight, Raspberry Ripple, Strawberry Surprise, Chantilly Lace and Pearl Buttons.

FEATURE: NGIV PARTNERSHIPS

npw

Native Plant Wholesalers

NATIVE PLANT WHOLESALERS nativeplantwholesalers.com.au Native Plant Wholesalers are leaders in the selection, marketing and growing of Australian native plants in 140mm pots. Established for over 35 years we pride ourselves on our quality, extensive range, service and efficient delivery.Native Plant Wholesalers is NGISA and EcoHort accredited with a modern facility.�

PIPER ALDERMAN piperalderman.com.au Commercial lawyers providing specialist and quality advice and services to the horticulture industry.

Specialist services include contracts, mergers, trade practices, licensing, property leasing and dispute resolution. Piper Alderman focuses upon providing value for money legal services, and ensuring timely and responsive service delivery.

JMK NURSERY

GROW BETTER

jmknursery.com

growbetter.com.au

A family run business and wholesale nursery established in 1998. JMK Nursery have over 300 varieties of potted plants; including flowering, landscaping and seasonal lines, and bordering plants. The nursery is situated in Wandin East and spans nine acres.

Market leader – supporting independent garden centres, with a commitment to quality.

Key offerings, original pelletised organic fertiliser, followed by an ever growing range of organic and organically based fertilisers, soil improvers, mulches, potting media and water saving products.

EVERGREENCONNECT

SUREGRO TREEMAX

info@evergreenconnect.com.au

suregro.com

A leading nationwide online industry platform that ensures up to date plant sourcing and supply information is easily available to the entire greenlife industry. They specialise in providing an efficient conduit of information between production nurseries and their customers whilst providing efficiencies for both growers and customers in their everyday business operations.

SureGro TreeMax Australia provides land management, soil erosion control, revegetation, landscaping, civil, agriculture and nursery products nationwide. Our dedicated and experienced staff provide customers with products that prevent land degradation, improve growth rates, protect developing trees to ensure our environment is protected now, and into the future. u

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FEATURE: NGIV PARTNERSHIPS u

SIDEKICKER

TALL TREES

sidekicker.com

talltrees.com.au

Sidekicker is reinventing how businesses hire casual and temporary staff providing pre-vetted and quality labour, and using technology to deliver unbeatable advantages.

CHANDLER AGRIBUSINESS

Tall Trees are a wholesale production nursery with over 30 years experience, growing on two sites. Commercial, domestic and municipal tree and plant supply.

Specialising in Air Root Pruned tree supply, OzbreedÂŽ varieties, contract growing and brokerage services. With a fleet of delivery vehicles servicing all of Victoria and beyond.

chandleragribusiness.com.au A leading agriculture labour hire provider that offers an all year-round, fully compliant and experienced workforce to major producers and independent growers throughout Victoria. We specialise in agriculture labour hire for both permanent and seasonal placements in the vegetable, fruit, nut and wine industries.

MOSHI

ICL

TRANSPLANT SYSTEMS

bruce@moshie.biz

icl-sf.com/au-en

transplantsystems.com.au

Moshi is a boutique consulting and industry development business.

With a particular focus on continuous improvement and leadership development, we partner with organisations like yours in supporting you to achieve your business goals. Businesses, large and small, have achieved significant efficiency and productivity gains from our business improvement activities within their enterprise, or from completing our Lean Leaders development program.

Everris, part of the ICL Group, is a global organisation with product portfolios renown for their innovation, performance and precision. Everris is passionate about creating improved nutrition programs and total solutions delivery of healthy green turf, premium quality ornamentals, high yielding crops and ripe and tasty fruits and vegetables. Our brands include Osmocote, Hydraflo, Bandrot, Sierraform GT, Sportsmaster, ProTurf, Agroblen, Agrocote and more.

Transplant Systems is committed to offering customers a troublefree experience in the procurement, supply and installation of nursery, forestry and field machinery, equipment and solutions.

Transplant Systems brings together specialist staff, an integrated team of professional consultants and exceptional international suppliers. The right advice, equipment and follow-up support will help you achieve your goals sooner and see a faster return on your investment.

NEW WEBSITE LAUNCH

We are excited to announce the launch of the SureGro TreeMax newly designed website.

We hope you enjoy a more informative and easy to use on-line purchasing portal.

T: 1800 550 000 10

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www.suregrotreemax.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

Spring has sprung, but not as we know it

By Matt Ross After experiencing a pandemic driven boom in gardening from April, many growers have already sold what would have been their spring stock to keep up with demand. A shortage of stock this spring is something that has been popping up on the ‘growers grapevine’.

The public appetite for gardening and plantlife this winter was unprecedented. Australia Post data reveals online sales in the “home and garden” category peaked in mid-April and have held steady ever since, growing above 95 per cent year-on-year.

Google searches for “how to grow vegetables” hit an all-time worldwide high in April. And of course, garden centre shelves were stripped of seedlings, seeds and other gardening materials, by shoppers eager to experience the many benefits of gardening.

Despite the increased restrictions introduced within Victoria, public interest in gardening is still strong. Bulleen Art and Garden manager Alastair Cooper said orders were coming in thick and fast via the website and over the phone. “It’s all absolutely pumping. We have never been so busy for deliveries.

We are delivering plants if we can across the eastern suburbs of Melbourne.” And it’s that sustained unprecedented appetite for greenlife that brings us back to the whisper that this spring will look a little different for the industry.

We spoke to John Warner, Head of Production at Warners Nurseries, to understand how an unseasonably busy winter might affect access to stock, “the majority of the garden centres we work with have put forward orders in much earlier than usual. My fear is that there are some retailers that aren’t doing that and perhaps aren’t aware of a possible shortage in spring.”

It’s also possible that the supply will be in much higher demand as landscaping businesses are allowed to begin trading again as restrictions start to ease. And with interstate growers in the same boat, Victoria’s retailers may not be able to turn to them to address shortages of stock.

“I expect that some of the lines that retailers are used to stocking in spring simply won’t be available. They require more time.”

The sentiment was echoed by James Edge, National Sales Manager at Humpris Nursery, “we anticipate there’s going to be a big demand for plants as restrictions ease and we’d encourage retailers to consider making their orders in advance.

Winter is typically a tapering time for plant demand but that hasn’t been the case this year. It might mean that retailers have to think outside the box with the lines they stock this spring.”

Let’s also be mindful that a high public demand for plantlife is ultimately a positive thing and will result in a new army of Victorian gardeners, that will breathe new life, and sales, into the industry. Supporting them to succeed is an opportunity too good to miss out on. Here’s hoping for an extremely busy spring for our industry, if a little different.

Proud Partners of NGIV Technology is what we do, innovation is what we live for Follow Us

/powerplantsaustralia

@powerplantsaust

powerplants.com.au

/user/powerplantsaustralia

pb-tec.com

@powerplantsaustralia

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FEATURE: PLANT LIFE BALANCE

WHAT’S TRENDING IN THE WORLD OF PLANTS When it comes to growing and selling plants it pays to know consumer trends. Our friends at Plant Life Balance have done the leg work so you don’t have to and here’s their predictions for the latest plant trends.

TREND 1 LOW MAINTENANCE STATEMENTS

TREND 2 NOSTALGIA FOR NATURE Easy care indoor trees and clusters. With our lives getting busier everyday, and an ever-increasing need to be waterwise, low maintenance plants are seen as an attractive choice.

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Interiors that embrace the natural world from colour to wallpapers to homewares. As we become more attuned to the benefits of nature, we’re being inspired to bring the outdoors in like never before.

TREND 3 A HOME AMONG THE GUMTREES

The resurgence of the 70’s ‘burb backyard and balcony. A nostalgia for a simpler time and a lifestyle with less impact on the land we love, to contrast our frenetic always-on work lives.

TREND 4 TRUTH AND TRUST

2020 will see a shift in how Australian plant-lovers seek advice. Almost half of Australians use social media as a source for seeking gardening advice, with social communities offering care tips, style advice and tutorials. The majority of people still seek knowledge from their local nursery. u

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FEATURE: PLANT LIFE BALANCE u

TREND 5 HORTICULTURE FOR HEALTH

TREND 6 EXPERIENCE IS EVERYTHING A rise in the use of gardening as a tool for mindfulness. Gardening will become the go-to activity for improving mental and physical health through sensory engagement with plants and soil.

The hybrid store. The hybrid creates an opportunity for consumers to connect with their communities and with nature while going about their regular eating, drinking or shopping activities.

Keep in the loop by signing up to the Plant Life Balance retailer list by emailing hello@myplantlifebalance.com.au.

Plant Life Balance is a program designed to get Australians excited and confident about styling their homes and lives with plants — while promoting the health and wellbeing benefits plants bring. The program is supported and funded by Hort Innovation using nursery industry levies and contributions from the Australian Government.

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BUSINESS NEWS

NGIV Members find safety solution in the palm of their hands Safe Ag Systems are changing the way Australian agribusinesses are tackling their safety obligations. Partnering with NGIV, together we are working to help business solve the headache of safety in the palm of the hand.

Safe Ag Systems offers a platform which brings information to the fingertips of workers and the business as it’s needed.

Whether it’s access to Safe Work Procedures Policies or SDS’s, inducting workers and contractors, or managing maintenance or training records, Safe Ag Systems offers this and much more as a solution specific to agriculture and horticulture.

With the ability to tailor content specific to your operations, members are able to ensure they have things in place to manage safety relevant to the work being done, and the workers doing the job. For example, workers in production need different information to those in the nursery so being able to create and access this easily can take a lot of pressure off a business. With around 300 templates available, NGIV members can choose what suits their operations, tailor documents and training to their requirements and feel comfortable in the knowledge they are doing everything reasonable to manage safety.

NGIV Member, Chislett Farms, have found great benefit from implementing the system. Employing up to 50 people including more than 30 pickers, keeping up to date records is important for them to manage the safety of their people.

Susan and Brenton Chislett spoke about the benefits of having safety records all in one place.

“We’ve got everyone inducted and trained up to do certain jobs and using the app we know straight away who can do what job, who’s trained, who’s inducted, who can operate certain machinery. So, it does help,” said Brenton.

Susan added, “I was actually thinking about the safety issues that the nursery workers have that not everybody needs the same induction. We have workers on the farm, we have workers in the nursery and there's different requirements for their safety. With Safe Ag Systems you can just design your own induction policies so easily by pulling together the policies you need for that particular person.

It’s peace of mind. It’s totally peace of mind because you know you’re actually doing what you are supposed to do. You’re ticking all the boxes ... not ticking boxes but you know you’re providing the safest workplace you can for your workers.”

For more information: Safe Ag Systems T: 08 8490 0939 or visit www.safeagsystems.com There is a 10% discount for all NGIV Members. Enter NGIVsafety in the promo code field when purchasing your subscription.

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T&SG: POST-COVID TRENDS

Tree & Shrub Growers:

The post COVID-19 horticulture industry with Dr Charlie Hall

By Matt Ross On 18th August, the Tree & Shrub Growers held an online meeting to discuss the American Horticulture sector during COVID-19 and what it could mean for trends in the Australian industry post-COVID. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from Dr Charlie Hall, Ellison Chair in International Floriculture, Texas A&M University.

The session was expertly hosted by Heath McKenzie of Australian Growing Solutions.

Charlie, as he prefers to be known, began his academic career at Texas A&M University in 1988. His expertise is in the production and marketing of Green Industry crops. He’s the Chief Economist for AmericanHort, Co-Chair of the Advisory Council of Seed Your Future and grew up in the nursery industry.

Charlie suggested that the impact of COVID-19 in America, largely mirrored that of Victoria’s, the boom of gardening,

ESTABLISHED 1998

WHOLESALE NURSERY | LAND ANDSC DSCAPING AND SEASONAL LINES BORDERING PLANT OPTTIONS | POTTED PLANTS

the dash for veggie seedlings and the overall acknowledgement of the benefits of gardening. Overall, it has had a positive impact on sales in garden centres and plant nurseries; a rise in sales of 30.3% nationally. He noted that recessions and crisis throughout history, have led people to growing and gardening.

Overall landscaping has been unaffected because of its socially distanced nature and has performed stronger than retail.

However, when the post-crisis recovery kicks in, traditionally, it results in gardening spend dropping at this stage. Charlie is hopeful that this time might be different; people have tasted biophilia and its benefits are fresh in the collective memories.

“This is a health crisis. The health benefits of gardening are in high demand.”

At Government level, Charlie believes urban greening projects that were ‘shovel ready’ will proceed but is concerned that, traditionally, green projects tend to be sacrificed when there is a recession. He was quick to point out that spending on green projects negates future environmental and health crisis and that with more foresight Government’s would see green spend as a saving in the long run.

“It’s my mission to help people understand plantlife is essential, it’s not a luxury item. We’re not there yet but collectively we must keep telling them that the environmental and health benefits are too significant to ignore. We need to educate people to put a dollar value to what we do, we do that by understanding what it is that people value and what they are willing to pay for. I believe that those things are the health and environmental benefits.”

The experience people are having of working remotely is also leading to more people leaving cities to seek slower living, with greater connection to nature. This phenomenon is known as de-urbanisation. There’s an increased willingness to spend locally and support local businesses, and whilst this has many benefits, it may well result in increased costs in the long term as global trade in impacted.

JMK NURSERY 160 Wandin Creek Rd Wandin East VIC 3139 E jmknurser y@bigpond.com | T 03 5964 2971 | jmknurser y.com.au 16

GROUNDSWELL OCTOBER 2020

Charlie shared an anecdote of what he believes is effective marketing of plantlife. “A local grower that grew short term crops that they couldn’t sell, had the choice of disposing of the crop or finding a creative use for it. They decided to take the crop of Easter Lily to local nursing homes, hospitals, fire stations, and so on. They filmed and shared videos of people u

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who were truly moved to receive these plants and sharing that joy resonated with many others. It put a tangible value on the plants that others could relate to.”

Charlie believes that individual businesses sharing their own messages of the benefits of plantlife, is more impactful than a strategic, conventional whole industry marketing campaign.

Charlie also spoke of the importance of exposing school children to gardening and horticulture. “We must reach these young people before they get to university and make their career choices. Our industry is full of career variety and opportunity.

That’s what we do at seedyourfuture.org” Amongst all the things we can’t impact right now, we still have many choices in the way we steer our businesses. Charlie wants us all to focus on our business core values and core stock, and use them to guide our future.

Charlie was a wonderfully, engaging guest and shared some fantastic insights. A big thank you to him for giving us his time and sharing so generously. It was fantastic to bring together industry figures from across Australia to share and learn from one another. Proving that meaningful collaboration can continue despite the logistical challenges.

The Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria is the largest sectional interest group of the Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV).

The group consists of members of the NGIV involved with nursery plant production and allied trade and provides fantastic networking opportunities across all areas of industry.

Contact NGIV to find out more and learn how to become a member of the Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria.

About the author Dr Charlie Hall, Ellison Chair in International Floriculture, Texas A&M University.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Key sustainability issues identified

for Australian horticulture

By Hort Innovation

New research for Hort Innovation has identified the sustainability topics that are most important to people interested in Australian horticulture, from growers through to consumers and communities.

Having ethical and resilient practices, supporting healthy landscapes and meetall top the list.

The work and its findings are the foundation for the development of the Horticulture Sustainability Framework, said Hort Innovation’s General Manager of Data & Extension, Dr Anthony Kachenko.

When completed, the framework is going to be a tool to help the horticulture sector better communicate its sustainable, ethical and safe farming practice stories with stakeholders, ranging from shoppers to investors. “For the initial research, we investigated the topics that matter most to those involved in and those interested in the sector,�

Dr Kachenko said. “We worked through documents from stakeholders across our supply chain, and invited comment through an online survey.�

This identified 21 important topics across six themes: ‘Vibrant, ethical, resilient businesses and employment’; ‘Nutritious, quality, safe food’; ‘Healthy landscapes’; ‘Thriving communities’; ‘Careful use of inputs’; and ‘Climate and energy’.

Importantly, the research shows that topics important to horticulture’s external stakeholders are very similar to those that the horticulture sector itself most cares about.

VIBRANTT, ETHICAL , RESILIENT BUSINESSSES AND EMPLO YMENT

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GROUNDSWELL OCTOBER 2020

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INDUSTRY NEWS u

The topics found to be most significant were: >

Labour – safe and ethical work

>

Productive, profitable farms & nurseries

>

Biosecurity

>

Minimising impacts on waterways

>

Water use

>

Climate variability and adaptation

>

Best practice management.

“This work indicates there is huge potential for the horticulture sector to communicate with these external stakeholders to develop a shared understanding of these topics and how they are being managed,” said Dr Kachenko. “They include ‘people’ based topics such as ethical labour and fair work conditions, ‘planet’ issues such as water use and the health of waterways, ‘produce’ factors such the production of safe, nutritious and high-quality food, and ‘performance’ areas such as protecting biodiversity and adapting to climate variability.”

Ingrid Roth of Roth Rural, who is a grower herself, is leading drafting of the Framework on behalf of Hort Innovation.

“Australian horticulture has a great story to tell and a great opportunity to tell it both collectively and individually,” she said. “This research has helped us to understand what is most important to stakeholders. We can now focus on looking at our sector’s performance in those key areas, and how we can move on and use this.”

Dr Kachenko added that establishing meaningful benchmarks will allow the horticulture sector to measure progress over time. “Our Australian horticulture industries have said we need to commit to a sustainability journey. Our next step is to work with them to set sustainability goals and measures – both to demonstrate commitment to sustainability and to prioritise future actions.”

The Framework team is now beginning further work with horticulture’s peak industry bodies, growers and other participants to prioritise key aspects of the tool.

Consistent Rele e ase. Complete Nutrition. Superior Performance.

1800 709 588 sales@agsolutio ons.net.au 20

GROUNDSWELL OCTOBER 2020

Tyabb, Victoria www.agsolutions.net.au

RETAIL NEWS

“Restless Gardening Syndrome” and the opportunities for the Australian Garden Industry

By John Stanley, The Retail Guru, John Stanley Associates Every business in the world has to change as a result of COVID-19. That was the message I presented at a workshop to TAFE/Murdoch students and guests at a session held at Murdoch University campus in WA in late July.

Over the last few months I’ve been working with nursery industries around the world developing strategies post COVID-19. Along with my garden centre consultancy colleague from America, Sid Raisch, we’ve coined the term “Restless Gardening Syndrome” to explain the increase in demand for garden products and the surge in spending in the garden sector around the world.

I spoke about the world discovering gardens and gardening in these unusual times and that the industry around the world has adapted quickly to the changes.

Including the introduction of “Floral Friday” which has started a well being movement around plants.

I addressed the growth trends in nursery production, landscaping and garden retailing, and used examples from the industry around the world, as well as examples from within the industry in Australia and other businesses sectors where we could adapt the ideas moving forward.

I explained why some independent horticultural businesses are seeing large

growth in sales whilst others are in fact seeing a decline in sales, in what is a growth market.

Following the three-hour presentation, which was interspersed with many questions and discussions, I led the students through an interactive session where they explored the opportunities in Australia. They were asked to prioritise what they believed they will need to change and what actions they will need to take over the next three years in the industry to ensure the sector thrives.

These were their key priorities: 1. There is a need to better understand the target consumer and then develop marketing strategies to meet the needs of the new consumer. Especially as the consumer needs and wants have changed so dramatically in the last few months.

2. Develop new ways of selling plants based on techniques that are being introduced successfully overseas.

These include; Click and Collect, Grab and Go, Drive-through garden centres and Success Kits.

3. Develop a sustainable strategy to reduce the plastic and packaging in the industry and the removal of harmful chemicals from the industry.

4. Embrace new technology and introduce virtual plant showrooms, promote Apps such as Plant Snap or develop similar Apps for the Australian market.

5. Develop opportunities in the wellbeing market as they relate to the garden industry and promote the benefits to the consumer.

6. Develop the job opportunities in the industry especially for younger people.

This was a unique opportunity for millennials to share their view of the industry and to put together strategies they would introduce to ensure future success. The workshop was a wonderful, interactive experience and everyone left feeling like they had learnt from each other and it highlighted that the future of our industry is in good hands.

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RETAIL STATE OF PLAY

SPONSORED BY:

Maximise Christmas sales and remember December and January entertaining By the time you read this story it will be spring, hopefully lockdown is over in all areas of Australia, so make the most of your opportunities.

The only thing stopping fabulous sales from December on is the weather, but you know the saying: “Don’t worry about the things you cannot control.”

Weather is one of those things so take a punt, stock up and profit.

I know that as you move into summer you need to control your plant stock more carefully but I see many centres who reduce their stock levels too far and the visual of your centre suffers as do impulse sales.

Yes, there is a fine line there, but you are better off having a few throw outs rather than missing sales.

If you ain’t got it then you cannot sell it.

Garden Releaf 2021 will happen in March but there may be a question mark over just how garden centres handle events depending on COVID-19. Date is to be confirmed.

Well stocked – Town & Country Balwyn

Follow GCA on Facebook for updates www.facebook.com/gardenreleafaustralia

However, after our 2020 year there will never be a more opportune time to help raise funds for Beyond Blue or your own local cause.

Gardens and plants are therapy for body and mind

www.gardenreleaf.com.au

Leigh Siebler Garden Centres of Australia | e: leigh.siebler@bigpond.com | m: 0409 889 779

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GROUNDSWELL OCTOBER 2020

RETAIL NEWS

Grow your retail business with NGIV There are many reasons why a retailer should join the NGIV, but the most important of these is the effect it may have on your bottom line. NGIV offers a number of other benefits to its retail members: Advocacy – We work closely with Government to represent our industry on related issues, such as, COVID-19, water security and climate change.

Industrial Relations Advice – You’ll receive timely advice and updates and access to our Industrial Relations Consultant, all free of charge.

Networking – We have some of the country’s leading professional horticultural retailers, the networking opportunities are of high tangible reward.

Trade Days – Gain access to the largest horticultural trade day in the Southern Hemisphere. Tap into the highest quality stock in season each month, available from some of the finest growers across Australia.

Technical Advice and Support – NGIV membership is a gateway to effective industry training. Access a variety of tailored training, retailing advice and direct assistance.

Store Locator – Be featured in our ‘Find a Garden Centre’ section.

This promotes your business to a vast audience with opportunity to link back to your site and capitalise on potential custom.

Discounts on Training Events – All training events are offered to members at a substantial saving Groundswell Articles – Take advantage of being profiled as a ‘New Member’ in our print magazine, Groundswell and contribute your own articles.

On-Site Visits – We’ll come and visit you to learn more about your business and how we can help you.

Marketing and Communications Support – Our marketing expert is on hand to offer advice and guidance to increase your digital presence and put yourselves in front of your customer base.

Professional services and discounts offered through our strong network – >

Competitive nursery and garden insurance through our industry partners

>

Advice about our preferred suppliers for banking, superannuation, labour hire and legal

>

Discounted site fees at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show, the Southern Hemisphere’s premier horticultural event

>

Reduced rates to join Qantas club

>

Reduced Elgas prices.

GROUNDSWELL OCTOBER 2020

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RETAIL NEWS u

And don’t take our word for it, here’s what our Retail members have to say;

“ “

I make a living out of this industry. I support this industry, what it stands for and what the benefits of belonging are, such as industrial relations, industry promotion and in particular the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. Membership of NGIV really looks after our interests ... and that’s why I’m a member.

”

– John van der Horst, Acorn Nursery

The NGIV’s monthly trade market is a great way to access new stock and network with other members. Also, the regular updates and industry information is really helpful. I love that the profile of our industry through the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show is strengthened and also, on a personal level, I love the support and friendship you gain with people throughout our industry and that’s why I’m a member.

”

– Heidi Martin, Van Loon’s Nursery

To learn more about membership to NGIV and how we can help to improve your business operations and overall profitability phone us on 9576 0599.

Retailers ready themselves for VSGP spend NGIV’s Victorian Schools Garden Program (VSGP) aims to inspire school communities to make the most of their outdoor spaces and promote a lifelong connection with the natural environment.

Every year VSGP gives away $60,000 worth of vouchers to spend within Full NGIV Member retailers. This is a significant spend and a wonderful revenue stream for our members.

Irrigation Booms

If you’re a Trade Day Buyer consider upgrading to Full NGIV Membership to supply schools with the plantlife they need and make valuable connections with the education sector.

And if you’re a garden centre or retail nursery in Victoria it’s the perfect time to join Victoria’s peak industry body.

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GROUNDSWELL OCTOBER 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

Employers must notify WorkSafe of COVID-19 cases Employers are now required to notify WorkSafe immediately when they become aware a worker has received a confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) diagnosis. The new Regulations came into force on 28 July 2020 and will remain in place for 12 months.

The new Regulations, made under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, will assist WorkSafe to reduce the risks to health and safety in the workplace arising from coronavirus (COVID-19).

Timely notification of potential workplace transmission of coronavirus (COVID 19) is critical for effective management of related health and safety risks and the prompt investigation of potential breaches of employer duties.

Employers are required to notify WorkSafe immediately on becoming aware that an employee or an independent contractor’s employee has received a confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) diagnosis and has attended the workplace during the infectious period.

Self-employed persons are also required to directly inform WorkSafe immediately on receiving a confirmed coronavirus

(COVID-19) diagnosis if they have attended the workplace during the infectious period.

The infectious period begins on the date 14 days prior to the onset of symptoms or a confirmed diagnosis (whichever comes first), until the day on which the person receives a clearance from isolation from the Department of Health and Human Services.

Failing to notify WorkSafe under section 38 of the OHS Act can lead to fines of up to $39,652 (240 penalty units) for an individual or $198,264 (1200 penalty units) for a body corporate.

To notify WorkSafe of a positive coronavirus (COVID-19) diagnosis, employers or self-employed persons should call the WorkSafe advisory service on 13 23 60.

Risk: in season now

Risk never goes out of season. From fire and flood to hail damage, from slip-and-trips to greenhouse breakages, nurser y and garden centre businesses face threats that are ever-changing.

Thankfully, we’ve got you covered for life’s little surprises. Our insurance brokers know your industr y and the risks that your business face.

We will help provide your nurser y or garden centre with the right protection.

We can cover you for growing stock, buildings, greenhouses and catastrophe events, so whatever the seasons throw at you, you you can pick up the pieces and carr y on.

Contact us to find out how we can help your business today.

Call 03 9412 1555 or visit ajg.com.au/nurseries

ajg.com.au/nurseries

Cover is subject to the Policy terms and conditions. Y Yoou should consider if the insurance is suitable for you and read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Financial Services Guide (FSG) before making a decision to acquire insurance. These are available at www.ajg.com.au. REF2038-0419-2.1

GROUNDSWELL OCTOBER 2020

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NEXTGEN: ADELE LACIS

Interview with NextGen

ADELE LACIS Majestic Young Plants Where do you work and what is your role?

I work at Majestic Young Plants located in Clayton, Victoria. My role is Customer Service and Administration. We are a production nursery specialising in growing seed, vegetative and tissue culture products.

How long have you worked where you are and has your role progressed in the time you’ve been there?

I have been working here close on three years now. My role initially was working only with seed and vegetative lines, but now includes tissue culture which I really enjoy. Most of my favourite plants, all indoor and succulents, are mainly produced through tissue culture.

What do you like most about the Nursery Industry?

I enjoy working with others who are as passionate about plants as I am. Prior to working in the industry, I didn’t realise the extent of behind the scenes work that goes into the production line. I am constantly learning and enjoy meeting different people in the industry. I love the beauty of plants and find it fascinating how they all grow differently and have unique requirements. I enjoy sharing the love that I have for plants with others.

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GROUNDSWELL OCTOBER 2020

Where would you like your career to go to within the industry?

In the next few years my goal is to start up my own retail business in tropical North Queensland mainly focusing on indoor plants, succulents, cut flowers and exotics.

How did you end up working in the nursery industry?

I was working in sales and account management since I was 18, and wanted a change, to try something different. I was recommended to try working as a nursery hand at a different nursery a few years back and started part time. I can still remember the first day I started. I was working in despatch and although it was a really busy role, I felt really relaxed and happy being surrounded by plants and felt this industry is really rewarding. My grandparents were really keen gardeners and had the most beautiful garden consisting of fruit trees, vegetables and flowers. I feel they inspired me to have a career working in horticulture.

What do you do in your spare time?

I love gardening at home, going for walks with my partner and my two little Chihuahua’s.

What is a typical day like for you?

My days consist of processing orders into production schedule, invoicing, organising our weekly despatch of local and interstate orders, booking in freight, and assisting with customer queries.

Hobbies and Interest?

I really enjoy exercising. Fitness plays a massive role in my life. I wake up at 4.30am and train doing cardio or weights every morning before I start work. I also love to travel overseas or to Queensland, and enjoy bushwalking and camping.

Proudly sponsored by

INDUSTRY PARTNERS MAJOR CORPORATE

PRICE UPDATE

PLATINUM

Decreased by $14.21 per tonne (0.72 cents per litre) Prices effective 1 October 2020 (inc GST) Cat

Cents per litre

Melbourne Geelong

Other

A

Base Price

74.65

75.20

76.30

76.74

B

Usage below 2,500 litres

65.30

65.85

66.84

67.39

C

Usage between 2,500 – 5,000 litres

64.75

65.30

66.29

66.84

D

Usage between 5,000 – 10,000 litres

63.10

63.65

64.64

65.19

E

Usage between 10,000 – 30,000 litres

62.00

62.55

63.54

64.09

F

Usage between 30,000 – 50,000 litres

61.45

62.00

62.99

63.54

GOLD

Mildura

SILVER

BRONZE

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