Groundswell | May 2021

CONTENTS

Volume 32 Number 5 May 2021 PUBLISHER

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NURSERY & GARDEN INDUSTRY VICTORIA

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PRESIDENT Simon Gomme CEO Craig Taberner

3 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

CONTRIBUTORS Simon Gomme, Leigh

4 CEO’S MESSAGE

Siebler, Craig Taberner, Matt Ross, Brendan

5 TRADE DAY MEMORIES

Condon, Paul Cunningham, James Walker,

8 AUSTRALIAN ECOSYSTEMS: BREEDING FUTURE LEADERS

ADVERTISING NGIV T: (03) 9576 0599

Hort Innovation, Nan Cleven

10 TS&G: ALOWYN GARDENS

ADDRESS Unit 3, 307 Wattletree Road,

11 TAX PLANNING

Malvern East VIC 3145.

12 FIVE REASONS TO USE AN INSURANCE BROKER

MAILING ADDRESS

13 A FRESH APPROACH TO PLANT LISTS

P.O. Box 2280, Wattletree Road LPO, Malvern East VIC 3145.

14 GARDENING TRENDS IN 2021 ACCORDING TO INSTAGRAM

TELEPHONE (03) 9576 0599 FAX (03) 9576 0431

16 CITRUS CANKER ERADICATED

EMAIL ngiv@ngiv.com.au

18 CONNECTING JUNIOR GARDENERS 20 FUTUREFOODSYSTEM, CHANGING THE WAY WE LIVE AND GROW FOOD

www.ngiv.com.au FINISHED ART Vale Graphics

22 GIG FUNCTION RESCHEDULED

Our front cover: Goodbye Carribean Gardens, hello next evolution of Trade Day

23 VALE: NATALIE FLORENCE PEATE

www.ngiv.com.au

E: angie@valegraphics.com.au

24 TRADE DAY REPORT 26 NEXTGEN: DARCY UNDERWOOD

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M: 0409 88 77 06 PRINTING Norwood Industries 6 Wedgewood Road, Hallam VIC 3803.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Simon Gomme President, NGIV NGIV have applied for funding through Agriculture Victoria’s Food to Market Fund to develop a comprehensive review of our sector.

We hope it will help us to identify employee shortages, improve future workforce planning, encourage business investment, provide direction on how the sector can better market horticulture as a career of choice and capture the size of the Victorian industry, to realise and capitalise on the current and future growth opportunities.

There’s already two projects underway that have been funded

by Agriculture Victoria. The Quality Assurance Roadmap and the Industry Governance Model, both have a focus on gathering industry data to strengthen the Victorian nursery industry’s management of biosecurity outcomes.

We’ve also engaged with all Victorian based Federal MP’s; with some keen to meet and understand more about the Victorian industry. Last year really demonstrated the importance of building strong relationships with the relevant Government figures.

We continue to inspire the next generation to bring their career to life and choose horticulture. In April we attended the South East Local Learning and Employer Network (LLEN) Career Expo with over 4,000 students in attendance. And later this month we’ll be presenting at the Victorian Careers Show.

Our newly created brochures did a fantastic job at highlighting the wonderful opportunities that exist in this industry.

I’d like to reiterate my sorrow with the news that Natalie Peate, former NGIV President, passed away in April. It’s always sad to hear when someone who gave so much to our industry is no longer with us.

And finally, after 43 fantastic years at Caribbean Gardens I’d like to call on all NGIV members to get behind the next evolution of trade day and make sure we create a new piece of history at it’s new home. And of course, let’s go out in style at Caribbean, the more the merrier.

Simon Gomme President, NGIV Powerplants Australia GROUNDSWELL MAY 2021

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CEO’S MESSAGE

Craig Taberner CEO, NGIV It was fitting that our final trade day at Caribbean Gardens was so well attended, with some of the original crew coming along to enjoy the day. There is a lot of emotion and affection for the event, and it was lovely to share some stories and hear some new ones.

Cindy McLeish. The launch of our Connecting Junior Gardeners Program at St Peters Primary School in Bentleigh East was a great experience for their pupils and State Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos was a gardening convert too. And Industry Partner Moshie have been delivering a number of business focused workshops too.

After a webinar heavy year in 2020, NGIV’s events calendar is back in full swing and we’re coming off the back of some wonderful gatherings. The Tree & Shrub Growers dinner and tours of Alowyn Gardens and Crittenden Estate, had fantastic turnouts, including guest of honour Deputy Liberal Leader

We enjoy putting together events and our aim is always to make sure they’re inclusive and welcoming to all. I received feedback earlier in the year that some of our events can feel quite male dominated, not unfriendly or unwelcoming, but not truly representative of our industry. I really want to reiterate that the focus from NGIV is always to create events that are fun, welcoming and engaging for all. So, I put it to you; how can we redress that balance and ensure that our future events are attended by a diverse range of members? I welcome your suggestions and please do ensure that you’re subscribing to our weekly e-newsletter, via our website, to ensure you’re receiving event updates.

TU GR O DE BES WE LI TO RS VE C RY K N ORD DE OW ER C 20 FOR 21

I thoroughly enjoyed reading everyone’s abiding memories of NGIV Trade Day at Caribbean Gardens on page 5. Forty-three years is a long time, and whilst we have many great memories of bringing the industry together at Caribbean Gardens, we’re excited about the opportunity that comes with change, to do things differently and create new memories together.

Have a fantastic month and come along to one of our events and say hello if we haven’t yet met.

Craig Taberner CEO, NGIV

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FEATURE: TRADE DAY

Trade Day Memories

By Matt Ross

After 43 years of calling the Caribbean Gardens in Scoresby ‘home’ to NGIV’s Trade Day, it’s time to say goodbye. During that time Victoria’s horticultural industry has come together many times to enjoy the experience of trade day and left with their own lasting memories.

We reached out to some of them and asked; what was your abiding memory of trade day at Caribbean Gardens?

“

Ever since I started at NGIV, Trade Day has been a jewel in the crown. Members have committed to this event for decades, it’s kick started many businesses and helped create and embed a strong culture within the Victorian industry. This culture is the envy of most, but the fabric of a strong membership body. It’s a showpiece, an event that makes you proud to represent NGIV and is a forum for gatherings, networking, trading and showing off to special invited guests. This is a result of the legacy I’ve inherited from past Presidents, Trade Day Committee, members, buyers and NGIV staff.

”

Craig Taberner, CEO NGIV

“

My abiding memory is of the brief calm before the storm when the stand holders have all finished preparing their stand displays and able to get a quick chat in before the rush.

Many a winter market when we are convinced it is still getting colder than when we first arrived to set up the stand, we have discussed how to keep out the cold wind and ended up parking our Paradisia Nursery truck across the top of the ramp to reduce the amount of wind howling down the ramp.

”

Mark O’Mahony, Sales Manager, Paradisia Nursery

“

I remember as a young 21yr old some 22 years ago, my boss Frank Bilotto had just purchased a new delivery van. I had filled it with Azaleas and taken it home ready for trade day the next morning.

Unfortunately that night I smashed a hole in the fibreglass roof on a tree backing the van into my driveway. Anyways the next morning I slept through my alarm, you can imagine my managers face when I arrived to market and reversed up to our stand “late” and with the brand new van sporting a great gaping hole in the roof.

”

Adrian McCarthy, Commercial Business Manager, Australian Growing Solutions

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FEATURE: TRADE DAY

“ “

It has to be the ‘Monbulk Mafia’. Leo Koelwyn, David Daly Senior, Bob Allison, Peter De Groot and Frank Hammond. Industry decisions were made and protocols set, all in the name of improving the Victorian industry and ensuring everyone pulled their weight to all flourish.

Meeting and networking with the growers of our products, learning what was working well for them so we could meet what they and the consumer were after. The ‘buzz’ that trade day generates, there was such a positive vibe in the atmosphere, smiling faces all around, reflecting the season was looking good!

”

Kate Grant, Marketing Manager, Ball Australia

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” “

Greg Carrick, Sales Manager, Garden City Plastics

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“

My abiding memory of Trade Day is getting to know people in our wonderful industry and having fun decorating our stand for special occasions such as Think Pink, Christmas and Halloween.

Ausflora Pacific is 40 years old this year and I believe we’ve been attending Trade Day from almost the beginning.

”

Linda Sijpkes, Nursery Manager, Ausflora

My abiding memory of trade day are the people I have met along the way from other participants to the many customers who have come and gone over the past 35 years, made a lot of friends and contacts which could only occur through events like this. Trade Day has been our main point of contact with the rest of the industry.

”

Jeno Kapitany, Owner, Paradisia Nursery

FEATURE: TRADE DAY

“

I remember attending Trade Day while a student at Burnley, the scale and activity was simply impressive.

The Scotsburn display allegedly creeping beyond our specified boundary was the cause a famous “confrontation” involving long time Market Manager, Frank Hammond. The stand holder opposite us had stock spilling into the pathway. Frank was policing the paths and the stand holder pointed at our display suggesting Scotsburn had stock on the path. Frank was having none of it and read them the riot act, meanwhile I was looked for a hole in the floor to swallow me up.

Apart from that it’s always been a great opportunity to check what’s happening in the broader marketplace, catch up with colleagues and customers, especially those from areas we can call on regularly. Trade Day has also provided a terrific venue for a product launch or a celebration.

”

Peter Douglas, Nursery Manager, Scotsburn Nurseries

“ “

In the early years, after the market closed, most stand holders would meet for lunch at about four venues which were determined by the direction you travelled home. This demonstrated the great friendship that existed between them.

” ”

Justin Muhlebach, Owner, Flinders Nursery

Getting up at 4am come rain, hail or shine to open gates, organise trucks and set up tables for a 7:00am start. Making sure everyone obeyed the strict rules set up by the original committee back in the mid 1970’s and there were some memorable occasions when some overstepped the mark. Any early members will have some recollection of these.

Frank Hammond, Market Manager

Whilst we have many great memories of bringing the industry together at Caribbean Gardens, we’re excited about the opportunity that comes with change, to do things differently and create new memories together.

GROUNDSWELL MAY 2021

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PROFILE: AUSTRALIAN ECOSYSTEMS

Australian Ecosystems: The perfect breeding ground for future leaders

By Brendan Condon, Australian Ecosystems In April, Australian Ecosystems received the 2020 Employer of the Year Award for Nurseries, from Holmesglen TAFE. Discover why their nursery is the perfect breeding ground for future horticultural leaders.

Australian Ecosystems is a multi-pronged organisation that provides full-scale landscaping services including a nursery, construction and maintenance arms, and residential design services.

The crown jewel of our operations is our nursery, which has been working for 23 years to preserve and propagate native and locally indigenous plants for the Greater Melbourne region.

Initially focusing on providing aquatic plants for wetlands to improve the ecology of Port Philip Bay, Australian Ecosystems now grows millions of plants per year including aquatic and terrestrial native plants; as well as more recently branching out into ornamental and landscape lines for residential landscapers.

Despite this diversity, we stay true to our roots in ecological restoration, and have very skilled staff that are passionate about plants that are locally indigenous to the areas we work in. Our seed collection teams gather seed from multiple populations across Victoria, which enables us to grow plants to the provenance of the site they will be planted in. This allows us to help preserve the genetic diversity within species and ensures that the plants we send out will be ultimately suited to their final environment.

At Australian Ecosystems, we have a strong environmental ethos that is cultivated within our nursery, and spreads throughout all arms of our operation. We have reduced our plastic waste by developing our own 200cc and 600cc reusable trays, which hold multiple plants in a rigid tray that can be recycled if broken.

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Our plants are used in ecological conservation projects, from rainforest reforestation to restoration of waterways and habitats for Koalas, water birds, frogs, and more. We also participate in trials, growing on native species that have historically been tricky to cultivate commercially. Our nursery grows plants using recycled water from Melbourne Water’s Eastern Treatment Plant.

As we are a vertically integrated landscaping company, staff get the satisfaction of seeing plants they have raised from seed make their way to eventual planting by our construction and maintenance teams in sustainable landscapes across Victoria.

We all share in and celebrate our various projects, particularly more high-profile ones such as sustainable housing estate The Cape in Cape Paterson, and our work on future rooftop farm in the CBD, Melbourne Skyfarm.

Passing down and sharing information and techniques for plant propagation and cultivation is vital to ensure healthy environments into the future. This is increasingly important as remnant native vegetation is continually reducing, and biodiversity in cities and rural areas faces increasing threats due to climate change. As such, we are passionate about educating the next generation of horticulturalists, through our relationships with institutions such as Holmesglen TAFE. We aim to develop future leaders in horticulture by providing ‘hands-on’ training from our highly qualified and experienced staff. Visiting students appreciate that they can see the full lifecycle of plants at our nursery, from seed collection, to cleaning and storage, to growing on into a final product.

PROFILE: AUSTRALIAN ECOSYSTEMS

We provide professional training across a wide variety of tasks to assist them developing a diverse skill set. Education is an integral steppingstone into the industry, which is built upon with hands-on experience in a professional organisation that supports training, workplace health and safety, a strong teamwork culture, and further workplace development.

Our nursery is a great place to visit and work as we are focused on continually appreciating and improving our team culture. We offer professional development training and hold regular educational events for our staff and industry. We foster a strong team-working spirit and celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our staff by hosting regular ‘feast days’ to commemorate birthdays and cultural events. It is very important to us to provide a culture of support, communication, and mentorship; and we assist staff with HR and mental health initiatives. We also have a strong focus on workplace health and safety and ensure that all staff are trained and hold regular toolbox meetings to address any issues. We welcome change and encourage input from our staff to further improve methods and processes.

Horticulture is a unique industry, as it is fundamental to our everyday environments as well as the food that we eat. Green spaces in cities are increasingly appreciated, and there is much work to be done to improve ecological outcomes in Victoria.

As such, the field of horticulture is very diverse and constantly evolving; there are many avenues of employment and innovation to pursue. Horticulture is an inclusive and supportive field for people of all ages and backgrounds; and can be integral to a diverse range of careers from trades to business ownership and corporate roles. We are very proud to work as both an educator and employer for students in this industry, and look forward to working with the future generations of Victoria’s horticulturalists for years to come!

GROUNDSWELL MAY 2021

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TREE & SHRUB GROWERS

Tree and Shrub Growers:

Visit Alwoyn Gardens

By Matt Ross We’re extremely fortunate to be able to call upon a number of stunning NGIV member venues to host our events, and our March Tree and Shrub Growers event at Alowyn Gardens and Nursery was no exception.

Situated in Yarra Glen in the heart of the fertile Yarra Valley, a visit to NGIV members Alowyn Gardens and Nursery is a real treat. On an autumnal March evening over 80 NGIV members came along to a dinner and tour of the gardens.

It was a wonderful show of industry strength for our guest of honour, Deputy Liberal Leader and Shadow Minister for Regional Cities and for Tourism, Major Events and Sport, Cindy McLeish, who left with a wonderful impression and a sense of the significance of our industry.

Having recently became NGIV members, John and Prue, the owners of Alowyn Gardens and Nursery, indicated their desire to host an industry event. Our Training & Events Officer, Lizzie Earl, worked with them to deliver an event and audience that they were delighted with. If you’re an NGIV member and you’d be keen to host an event, get in touch.

The Gardens themselves were looking majestic and benefiting from a dose of autumn colour. The spine of the garden is a 100m-long arbour covered in wisteria and roses, with a sunken rose garden and classical fountain as the centrepiece, from which a series of separate areas unfold.

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It was fantastic to see everyone enjoying the evening and the chance to catch up with old friends and making new ones.

There was a good turn out from our retail members, who took the opportunity to network with growers. And we were particularly pleased to have such a large number of female horticulturists attend, we endeavour to make all our events welcoming and inclusive to all.

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.

Thank you to all our members for attending, to Cindy McLeish MP for being so generous with her time and words, to Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria Chairman, Heath McKenzie, for being our wonderful MC, and of course to John and Prue for providing the perfect venue.

BUSINESS NEWS

Tax Planning: What is it and how can it save you money?

By Paul Cunningham, Associate, SMART Business Solutions When an accountant talks about tax planning, what do they actually mean? As part of our tax advisory service, we always offer strategic tax advisory, but it’s important to note there are a lot of things that accountants cannot implement after June 30.

In an ideal world, taxes would consume very little of our time and attention. The reality is income tax is one of the largest expenses for most businesses and individuals. There is nothing worse than reaching the end of the financial year and having no visibility into how much tax you’ll owe. It requires careful planning, budgeting and monitoring to avoid keeping business owners up at night. As one of the Associates at award-winning SMART Business Solutions, Paul Cunningham is skilled at guiding his clients toward the most tax effective structures to ensure business strength is at the forefront.

“If you want the most strategic tax outcome, tax planning will give you clear insight on what you can do or action before June 30 to provide a better tax outcome. With the 2021 Financial Year in its final quarter, we encourage you to consider discussing a Tax Planning strategy with us or your current accountant.” says Paul.

Fortunately, it’s possible to manage your taxes and gain control over their effect on your finances. When your taxes are fully understood and anticipated, you can regain control over cash flow, debt repayments and other obligations.

Tax planning is an exciting opportunity to unpack and rearrange your business structure, looking to implement tactical ways to distribute your funds and potentially action any changes in your current structure pre-year-end such as paying a wage, making

superannuation contributions, pre-paying certain expenses or considering investing in business equipment.

With smart tax planning, you’ll have the opportunity to plan better and implement actions to guide your final months of the financial year to operate in your favour, working toward minimising your tax and retaining more profits.

The overall goal of Tax Planning is to employ a strategic approach to your overall tax obligations with the intention to keep your effective tax rate as low as possible, ensuring you hang onto your profits.

April or May is the best time to do Tax Planning. This ensures your accountant has time to consider your business and your individual requirements and offer advisory on what actions you could take to assist with the overall goal of minimizing your effective tax rate come June 30.

Benefits of Tax Planning Tax planning is critical for businesses and individuals who want to take control of their finances and position themselves for success. With a well-considered tax planning structure you can expect to achieve: >

Improved cash flow

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Better reporting

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Improved goal setting and tracking

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More control over your money

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Improved decision-making

Your tax planning process doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should be thoughtful, never reactive. Working with your accountant you can evaluate your current tax strategy and find ways to optimise your tax situation further.

More information Paul Cunningham, Associate SMART Business Solutions are big advocates on sharing their knowledge. Take a look at their website where you’ll find a stack of resources including videos, downloadable files and up-to-date articles all geared to help business owners achieve better business.

www.smartbusinesssolutions.com.au GROUNDSWELL MAY 2021

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BUSINESS NEWS

Five reasons to use an insurance broker instead of DIY

By James Walker Cut out the middle man. Sounds like a great idea, right? You stand to save on costs, it should be simple, you can get it done quickly, ensure your particular needs are covered and control the security of your personal information.

Except that when it comes to insurance it often doesn’t work like that. Here are five key reasons to use an insurance broker – and they’re the same reasons you might think are the benefits of going direct to the insurer.

1. You’ll get the best cover for your money Insurance contracts can be complicated and difficult to understand. If you buy insurance online, basing purchasing decisions on price alone, can you really be sure you’re covered for the risks you face? That’s where insurance brokers excel. They understand insurance contracts. They can assess your individual risks, advise you on the type and level of insurance cover you need and then find the best prices available in the market for that cover. Plus they have

access to specialist underwriters who understand what’s involved in owning original artworks or a boat, for example.

2. You’ll get a tailored solution Insurance brokers aim to create your business a complete insurance package, saving you having to cobble together policies online from an insurance agency that may [or may not] meet your needs, and also providing you a single renewal date.

3. You'll have help when you need it most When you engage a broker you will be assigned a dedicated business partner.

They will take ownership of your insurance needs and act on your behalf, saving you time and trouble. And in the

event that you have to make a claim they will have already made sure you have recorded the required documentation to support it. Better still, they'll manage the claims process on your behalf and negotiate with the insurer to make sure you get the best outcome.

4. You’ll get bespoke service While you get on with your business your broker will search the market for the most appropriate cover for your situation and assets, using their assessment skills to make sure you are not underinsured.

Then they will put together some options and talk you through the fine print, alerting you to exclusions and policy excesses.

5. You’ll stay on top of changes to your business's risk profile When it comes time to renew your policy your Gallagher insurance broker will contact you in plenty of time to review your current insurance program, to make sure all significant factors affecting the value of your cover are still covered .that all your risks are still managed, check if you have acquired or disposed of any assets, and any significant factors affecting the value of your cover.

Get a quote today!

If you would like to speak with your Gallagher insurance broker about a free no-obligation insurance review for your business, please contact James Walker on 03 9412 1214.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

A fresh approach to plant lists is needed Who guides who when it comes to plant trends in Victoria? Does the consumer demand for the same old favourites dictate what is grown or does the Victorian horticulture industry have a responsibility to continually excite and inspire consumers with fresh offerings?

A recent plant trend report, informed by industry professionals, suggested the following outdoor plants would be among those “popping up in homes across Australia this year”.

Lilly pilly (Syzygium smithii), English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Parrotbeak (Lotus berthelotii), Geranium (Pelargonium capitatum), Orange jessamine (Murraya paniculata), Bull Bay Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), Common juniper (Juniperus communis), Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), Weeping japanese maples (Acer palmatum var. dissectum).

Matt Reed, one of the owners at Antique Perennials, feels that as an industry we are doing ourselves a disservice in offering up the same predictable, boring, and

overused plant lists. And that the industry has a responsibility to inspire and educate consumers on the alternative and less heralded plants ranges.

“These plants have been seen millions of times in nurseries and gardens for the last 30 years, it is neither new, original or the least bit encouraging to anyone wandering around a nursery looking for choice. Is it encouraging to see an entire suburb with the same plants? The future of the industry does not lie in growing more of the same,” said Matt.

We asked Matt which plants he’d like to celebrate this year and here’s what he came back with: Potted or flowering colour – Phlomis russelliana

Evergreen – Salvia Pozo Blue Deciduous – Euonymus alatus compactus Low maintenance – Geranium ‘Silver Cloak’ Succulent – Avera Sunset (Bulbine frutescens) Unique – Prairie Blues (Andropogon) Trellis plants -– Hydrangea petiolaris We’d like to invite our members to respond and create your own plant trend report. Let us know your top outdoor, potted or flowering colour, evergreen, deciduous, low maintenance, succulent, unique and trellis plants. We’ll share the results in the next issue of Groundswell.

EXPERIENCE COUNTS

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www.suregrotreemax.com.au GROUNDSWELL MAY 2021

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Gardening trends in 2021 according to Instagram

By Matt Ross Love it or loathe it, social media provides a valuable insight into consumer behaviour and trends. As we’re all aware, gardening experienced an unparalleled surge in popularity in 2020, with Google data showing an impressive 39% YOY increase in global online searches for the topic. But what gardening trends are set to inspire the consumer in 2021?

With Instagram proving to be a key destination for new gardeners to learn, share and become inspired, Love the Garden analysed over 100 different garden-related hashtags on Instagram to uncover the ones that are growing in popularity and look set to be big in 2021.

Knowing what the gardening trends are can help guide stock decisions for the Victorian horticultural industry, steer your marketing efforts, and highlights where consumers may need support, inspiration and educating.

#balconygardening One in 10 households in Australia have no access to a private or shared garden, but what many living in urban areas do have is a small outdoor area on an apartment balcony or patio.

Balconies make the perfect space for a garden – you just have to know what to do with the space. Balcony gardening is the top up and coming gardening trend right now.

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#wildgarden The second biggest trend is the wild garden. Days spent pruning, mowing and meticulous garden maintenance are on the out – there’s so much else to enjoy outdoors and garden alternatives that don’t require the effort. Looks like it really is time to go wild!

#insideoutside This trend has been gaining traction in Australia for years, so it’s no surprise to see it at number three of the up and coming garden trends. We spend so much time outdoors many of us have already adapted our décor and styling to flow from one space to another.

#tinygarden Many people don’t have a private garden or outside area or have to make the best use of a very small space. Just like those innovators making the most of small spaces indoors, the tiny garden trend is blooming at number four in the list.

#raisedbedgarden This trend is simple and straightforward, and looks great too.

It’s no surprise that the raised garden bed is a real up-and-comer on Instagram.

#permaculturegarden A holistic approach to gardening, permaculture gardening means “permanent agriculture” and it’s defined as working with natural forces – wind, sun, and water – to provide food, shelter, water and whatever else your garden needs.

#whitegarden The clue really is in the name with this one. With just a quick scroll through Instagram, you can see why this is such a popular up and coming trend. Against a backdrop of dark green, white flowers are so eye-catching.

#windowsillgarden This really is one for those of us who don’t have much space at all. Lack of space encourages real creativity. This isn’t a huge trend in Australia but it’s developing – our housing style generally doesn’t suit windowsill gardening, except perhaps a herb box outside the kitchen window.

#greygarden Not satisfied with being one of the biggest interior design trends of the moment, grey is really beginning to make an impact in garden design too.

#cottagegarden Who doesn’t dream of a quaint country cottage to escape to every night or maybe just on the weekends? You can create the cottage vibe in any garden. Judging by the number of posts on Instagram, plenty of people are doing just that with this growing trend.

If you don’t already have an Instagram account for your business, set one up today. Instagram is a fantastic platform to celebrate the beauty of plantlife, inspire and educate consumers and highlight your own expertise.

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BIOSECURITY

Citrus canker eradicated

Citrus canker, a significant bacterial disease of citrus plants that was detected in the Territory in April 2018, has now been eradicated thanks to the support of the local community and industry.

Through a national cost-shared program that ran from May 2018 to March 2021, the eradication program was critical for protecting Australia’s national industry and international markets.

Nationally, the citrus industry is valued at $942 million, with exports valued at around $508 million, whilst the Australian nursery sector is valued at $2.6 billion supplying nursery stock into citrus industry and retail supply chains.

During the course of the National Citrus Canker Eradication Program, more than 270 employees worked on the eradication project supporting all elements from operations through to community engagement, compliance, science, and planning.

Funding was provided from the Commonwealth Government, state and territory governments, and citrus and nursery industry partners, noting the disease had the potential to impact the

national citrus industry through loss of trees, reduced fruit production, and lowered prices of fruit into international markets, with the potential for loss of important international trade markets if left unchecked.

The community should be acknowledged for their role in supporting the eradication efforts with 6,192 host plants removed from properties and nurseries across Darwin and Katherine.

After a significant effort over a prolonged period of time, the Territory is now free of citrus canker.

This means that nationally, industry will continue to access important international markets and locally, our growers will be able to move plants and plant-related products interstate without additional treatments or inspections being required.

Symptoms on fruit: note that the spots or lesions are surrounded by a yellow halo (indicated by arrow). Photo: Jonas Janner Hamann, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Bugwood.org

A distinguishing feature of citrus canker lesions is that they canbe seen and felt on both sides of the leaf. Pghoto:Timothy Schubert, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bugwood.org

Citrus scab symptoms, note that lesions are only on one side of the leaf and the opposite side is distorted. Photo:Florida Division of Plant Industry , Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bugwood.org

Symptoms on a leaf: note the yellow halo surrounding the lesions.

Photo: Florida Division of Plant Industry, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,Bugwood.org

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BIOSECURITY

On close inspection, the edges of lesions may have a watery or oily appearance. Photo:Jeffrey W. Lotz, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bugwood.org

This is important for ensuring our growers remain competitive and profitable.

Proof of Freedom was signed by the National Management Group on 8 April 2021. Work will now begin on adjusting the biosecurity arrangements back to ‘pre-citrus-canker’ times.

This will be a transitional process over the coming weeks.

Once completed, all movement requirements will be lifted.

The National Citrus Canker Eradication Program has run over three years with an action plan outlining: community engagement, compliance, movement controls, treatment, tracing, surveillance, epidemiology, diagnostics and science and recovery.

Spots or lesions on stems tend to be tan coloured. Photo: DPI&F archives, PaDIL padil.gov.au

Fast facts >

15,000 host plants were surveyed in the NT

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32 positive samples were identified

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6,192 host plants were removed from properties and nurseries across Darwin and Katherine

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The department followed strict procedures and protocols to prevent the spread of citrus canker through contamination of people, plants and vehicles.

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270 employees worked on the project

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Locals played a big part in eradicating Citrus canker from the Territory

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VSGP

Connecting Junior Gardeners

By Matt Ross NGIV have helped to create a learning resource that will inspire thousands of Victorian school children to connect and enjoy the benefits of gardening.

NGIV, through the Victorian Schools Garden Program (VSGP), are 1 of only 39 organisations to have received funding for the Victorian Government Let’s Stay Connected Fund. The Fund was developed to help communities to stay connected during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and beyond. We’re excited to deliver an educational gardening resource to inspire the next generation of gardeners and reconnect children with their peers after what’s been a challenging time for them.

The Connecting Junior Gardeners Program is a four-part educational gardening resource developed by the VSGP for primary aged school children. The Program consists of a suite of videos, fact sheets and activities, developed to inspire and excite children to discover the joys and benefits of gardening together. Children will also get to pack their virtual school bags and join us for an exciting excursion!

Using VSGP’s extensive database of school contacts, the Program will expose thousands of Victorian youngsters to the benefits of gardening for the first time, for many years to come.

We will also use the Program to engage relevant government

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ministers and inform them of the vital nature of Victoria’s horticultural industry.

In March we visited St Peters Primary School in Bentleigh East, to launch the Connecting Junior Gardeners Program.

VSGP’s educational consultant, James McLennan, delivered a free incursion using the resources to help guide his teaching.

Nick Staikos MP came along to see what all the fuss was about and left suitably impressed.

The school’s Sustainability Leader, Andrea Crough, confirmed the kids had a fantastic experience and were left enthused about the prospect of growing at school.

“The children had a fantastic day, they have an instinctive curiosity around growing. Gardening is a wonderful life skill and to inspire them at such a young age will benefit them and our broader society. I can’t wait to use the resources in the classroom.”

You can view and use the resources at vsgp.org.au/ resources/connecting-junior-gardeners-program.

futurefoodsystem, changing the way we live and grow food

By Matt Ross

Photo courtesy Dean Bradley

INDUSTRY NEWS

The way we grow, harvest, transport, sell and eat our food is the most destructive human activity on the planet. 58% of the world’s carbon emissions are created by our current food system. Annually, food wastage costs the global economy $940 billion. Soil exploitation has stripped essential vitamins and minerals from the food we currently eat. futurefoodsystem reimagines the home as an ecosystem that provides shelter, energy and nourishment for its inhabitants.

After five years of planning (and 25 years testing the concept), eco-innovator Joost Bakker brings you his latest vision. futurefoodsystem is an example of our potential to create positive impact by changing the way we build, live and eat.

The building futurefoodsystem was inspired by the world’s first homes.

The structure was built to withstand extreme loads, which allows for the home’s soil roof – a feature that creates habitat, provides insulation and facilitates food production. The building has organic certification and is the world’s most resilient building made from natural and recyclable materials.

Photos courtesy Dean Bradley

Joost believes it has the potential to tackle some of society’s biggest challenges, “this concept has the potential to tackle food security, malnourishment and environmental degradation … all whilst turning our urban areas into the most biodiverse on earth.”

And best of all it’s slap, bang in the middle of Melbourne CBD at Federation Square for all to see.

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Photos courtesy Dean Bradley

INDUSTRY NEWS

The system At the heart of the concept is a system that mimics nature by growing, nourishing and fertilising. futurefoodsystem up-cycles what we regard as ‘waste’ to power the house and grow nutrient-dense, delicious produce. Every one of us generates an abundant nutrient source, we just need to harness it.

The food futurefoodsystem will cultivate over 250 different species of plants, fungus, insects, snails, fish, fresh water, mussels, crustaceans and even two chicken residents. For six months, inhabitants Matt Stone and Jo Barrett will survive solely off the nutrient-dense food and self-generating resources that the building produces; showcasing a food system that is better for our bodies and the planet.

Who? Over the last 25 years Joost Bakker has highlighted the world’s wasteful ways using multiple platforms from art installations, floristry, design, architecture to bars and restaurants.

Raised in the Netherlands by a family of fourth-generation tulip farmers, Joost dropped out of high school to learn the family trade.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Garden Inspiration Group (GIG) Function Re-Scheduled It was with regret and an “Abundance of Caution” that the Garden Inspiration Group (GIG) decided to cancel their March 1 function at The Manningham in Bulleen.

We knew that the Victorian Premier had not extended the Victorian lockdown at that time. However, we knew people were nervous about indoor events and the last thing we wanted to do was run an event that could possibly contribute to Covid.

The risk was minimal but we took the cautious, safe approach.

The GIG function is proudly sponsored by: >

Biemond Nurseries

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Bombora Pots

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Grow Better Garden Products

>

Oasis Horticulture

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Plant Growers Australia

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Takasho Australasia

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Trenton Cottage

The decision was made to look at the possibility of an August GIG function. The tentative date is Monday evening August 2.

The way Victoria is going we are confident that we will have our event then so please put that in your diary/phone. Formal invitations will be sent as usual.

The GIG function is for key independent garden centres and their staff. It is a fun, informative evening event. If you need more information, please email Leigh Siebler on leigh.siebler@bigpond.com or phone 0409 889 779.

RETAIL STATE OF PLAY

SPONSORED BY:

Where to now after Covid-19?

Are you wondering where sales figures will go now after amazing figures through 2020? The strong feeling I am getting across Australia is that we are in for a bumper year. However, severe floods are across parts of Australia and this will have an impact on sales.

We have said it before but it is worth repeating, Covid-19 brought people in their droves to garden centres and gardening. The industry worked hard to service them but we did not spend any dollars to bring them in, they voted ‘Let’s Garden’ with their feet.

The secret to ensure that they continue gardening and enjoying it is to help with their success. They need information and advice.

Through 2020, I was able to visit many Melbourne garden centres and see what a brilliant job they are all doing. Now it’s time to see more regional members. I have been to Ararat, parts of Ballarat and also the Geelong area. The regional centres have boomed even more so than Melbourne and it is a pleasure to call on them.

Wombat Gully Geelong

Do make time to get out of your business and look at other garden centres, other retailers too and indeed visit some of your suppliers.

Follow GCA on Facebook for updates www.facebook.com/gardenreleafaustralia Leigh Siebler Garden Centres of Australia | e: leigh.siebler@bigpond.com

www.gardenreleaf.com.au

Gardens and plants are therapy for body and mind 22

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Vale Natalie Florence Peate It is with deep sadness that we advise our members of the passing of Natalie Florence Peate on Tuesday 13 April 2021. On behalf of the Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV) Board, staff and members, we would like to extend our sincere condolences to Natalie’s husband, Roger, and her family and friends.

Natalie was a plant person through and through and dedicated much of her life to her passion for horticulture.

Natalie and Roger sold their business to Michael Cole, Howard Bentley and Malchom Dickson.

Natalie started out as a school-teacher, specialising in science. But she was also an expert in plant propagation, with a particular interest in rare and challenging species. With her interest in uncommon native plants, she developed an impressive collection of Pomaderris, and other lesser-known Australian plants.

Natalie became only the second female President of Nursery Industry Association of Victoria (NIAV), now known as Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV), adding her considerable knowledge and experience between 1985 to 1987. She also held office in the International Plant Propagators’ Society and was a member of Australian Plant breeders’ Right Advisory committee.

In 1971, Natalie and Roger merged two business; Bushy Park Nurseries formerly owned by Fritz Myer and their business, Park Native Nursery, to form Plant Growers Australia (PGA).

In those days all PGA was a wholesale nursery, producing approximately one million plants annually, covering a product range of over five hundred varieties, mainly perennials, ground covers and shrubs. They are well known for their regular introduction of new and interesting varieties. In 1991/92,

She co-authored several books on Australian native plants, including the ever popular, Grow What Where. Throughout her career she gave outstanding service to the industry, and fittingly was awarded an Honorary Life Membership to Nursery & Garden Industry of Victoria in 2001. She was also synonymous with exhibiting at the Royal Agricultural Show and was always generous with expert advice to fellow gardeners.

Natalie Peate

Natalie’s funeral service was held at the Renowden Chapel, Springvale Crematorium on 23 April 2021 and was a lovely tribute to her life.

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TRADE DAY REPORT

April Trade Day report

By Nan Cleven After a busy March Trade Day, we were delighted to have an even busier April. The beautiful weather of Easter was replaced with something a little milder and cloudier, but that didn’t dent the enthusiasm from buyers or stand holders. The plantlife was as diverse as the colour on display. And so it was that our first Wednesday Trade Day went down as a roaring success.

We were delighted to host a number of stakeholders from Independent Hardware Group. We hope to build a relationship with IHG that our members can benefit from. They were very impressed with the turn out, the quality of stock and the running of the day.

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April Trade Day was proudly sponsored by NGIV Silver Industry Partner, Powerplants and Bronze Industry Partner, Growbetter.

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Attention now turns to our May Trade Day, which will be the last to be held at Caribbean Gardens.

We’d like to encourage you all to make the trip and help us celebrate an extraordinary 43 years and look forward to the next evolution of trade day.

Dawn, Laura and Phillip from Nielsen’s Nursery & Co made the long journey from Bairnsdale and were thrilled with how well they, and their stock, were received.

They too, are eager to make trade day a regular part of their plans.

« The beautiful maiden hair ferns that Chris and Lorraine bring along to their popular stand are ever popular. Most are pre-sold before market and the remaining few are quickly snapped up by savvy buyers.

« April Trade Day was proudly sponsored by NGIV’s Silver Partner, Powerplants, and NGIV Bronze Partner, Grow Better. It was fantastic to have NGIV President, Simon Gomme, on hand to ring the bell to close trading. In fact, he rang it so well, it broke.

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School holidays meant we were lucky to have some ‘Next Gen’ nursery children helping out. 11-year-old Benjamin and 10-year-old Natalie Daly, always keen to visit Trade Day under the watchful eye of their father, David from Conifer Gardens.

They were delighted to take on the bell ringing responsibility to let the buyers know the market was open.

TRADE DAY REPORT

Think Pink in May Our May Trade Day will host our annual ‘Pink Day’ for Mother’s Day; we encourage all members to support the theme and fund-raising efforts for Breast Cancer Network

April Coffee Cart was proudly sponsored

by Gold Industry Partner: Australian Growing Solutions

If you have a special pink promotion or ideas you’d like to promote in our e-Newsletter, please do let us know. We will be holding a themed raffle on the day; any donations from our stand holders would be most welcome.

The Caribbean coffee cart was a popular haunt for those catching up with peers and compare notes, or perhaps just looking to secure a morning cuppa. A big thanks to our Gold Partner, AGS, for sponsoring the cart. Here’s Adrian and Heath all smiles after a shot of caffeine.

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The success of NGIV’s Trade Day is reliant on new stand holders, as well as the long term, who breathe new life into the market. In April we were delighted to welcome Innovative Tags and Nielsen’s Nursery & Co. Kerry and Jayson from Innovative Tags enjoyed the atmosphere of their first trade day and the response from buyers. They have vowed to return…if they find their car keys.

ESTABLISHED 1998

WHOLESALE NURSERY | LANDSCAPING AND SEASONAL LINES BORDERING PLANT OPTIONS | POTTED PLANTS

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It’s always a pleasure to welcome back an interstate stand holder, particularly when it’s an NGIV partner. The ever popular, Jason Dawe from Native Plant Wholesalers, crossed the SA / Vic border to return to Trade Day, much to the delight of their customers.

Solomons and Gale Citrus made the journey to Victoria too, with buyers quick to secure their share of stock.

JMK NURSERY 160 Wandin Creek Rd Wandin East VIC 3139 E jmknursery@bigpond.com | T 03 5964 2971 | jmknursery.com.au GROUNDSWELL MAY 2021

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NEXTGEN: DARCY UNDERWOOD

Interview with NextGen

DARCY UNDERWOOD Mansfields Propagation Nursery

Where do you work and what is your role?

I work at Mansfields Propagation Nursery in Skye. I am currently training to be the 2IC Grower.

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

I have been at Mansfields for just over two years now. I started my job at Mansfields in the Mother Stock and Tree Pot areas. Over that two-year period, I have slowly transitioned into the Tubes area where I currently work. I have been fortunate to have worked in many different areas of the business even if only for short periods. Some of these other areas include Tissue Culture stock, Potting and Sorting.

What do you like most about the nursery industry?

Are any of your family members in the horticulture industry?

I find working with plants really enjoyable. Knowing that you’ve put in the time and effort into a plant and seeing it grow healthy and strong is rewarding. I also love that I can do indirect activity every day at work to stay healthy and fit.

Once finished with my studies I will be a fifth-generation horticulturalist. My mother and father had their own nursery/ landscaping business for years and they, along with my grandmother who is also a very experienced horticulturalist, encouraged me to pursue a job in the field. Ever since I could walk I was outside helping mum and dad in the nursery or garden and that played a major factor in my basic knowledge of horticulture before I even thought about studying or working in the field.

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

Looking into the future I would like to eventually become a head grower/manager or own my own business. I’m really happy with how my career has progressed already and can’t wait to see what else the industry has to offer me.

How did you end up working in the nursery industry?

My Mum and Dad used to own their own nursery, so I was surrounded by the industry from a very young age. My first paid job was with my Dad at a previous smaller nursery. I started by doing only two days a week, then three, then four, and I eventually started my apprenticeship just under a year after starting casual work. In my second year through a few good connections, I got the job at Mansfields where I currently work and I am loving it!

What is a typical day like for you?

A typical day for me would be to start by checking the watering/irrigation to make sure the plants are not too dry or too wet. Next, I would start allocating where our newly produced plants are going in the nursery. Once they plants are on the ground, I would water them in and set the team and myself up for the rest of the day. Being a grower, these jobs include cutting back, feeding, moving, spraying and weeding primarily.

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Have you studied horticulture and where?

I am currently studying at Chisholm TAFE in Cranbourne. I am completing my Certificate III in Production Nursery.

What level of study are you at presently and how much more do you plan on doing?

I am currently in the last year of my apprenticeship and hope to be signed off very soon. I have considered doing my diploma or a degree in horticulture, but I think I will have a break from study after my apprenticeship is complete to focus on my career.

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

In my spare time I am usually doing something active like running, working in the garden (I live on 11 acres so there is plenty of it), or playing for my local football team.

Proudly sponsored by

INDUSTRY PARTNERS MAJOR CORPORATE

PRICE UPDATE

PLATINUM

Decreased by $79.29 per tonne (4.04 cents per litre) Prices effective 1 May 2021 (inc GST) Cat

Cents per litre

Melbourne Geelong

Other

A

Base Price

86.69

87.24

88.34

88.78

B

Usage below 2,500 litres

77.34

77.89

78.88

79.43

C

Usage between 2,500 – 5,000 litres

76.79

77.34

78.33

78.88

D

Usage between 5,000 – 10,000 litres

75.14

75.69

76.68

77.23

E

Usage between 10,000 – 30,000 litres

74.04

74.59

75.58

76.13

F

Usage between 30,000 – 50,000 litres

73.49

74.04

75.03

75.58

GOLD

Mildura

SILVER

BRONZE

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