Pro Grow News Winter 2022 issue

pro grow news WINTER 2022

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Celebrate the Season The Snow Molds New Plants to Consider for 2022

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pro grow news Winter 2022

contents Features 10

Celebrate the Season

16

The Snow Molds

20

Superior Plants for 2022 and Beyond

28

Soil Testing and Plant Diagnostic Services

38

Plant for Success

Departments 5 President’s Message 6 Government Relations Director 8 MCH Corner 26 Mentoring Opportunity 32 Plant Identification Resources Online 36

Ad Index

On the cover — Photo by Trevor Smith, MCH Winter|2022

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pro grow news Winter 2022

committees

board PRESIDENT Peter Mezitt, MCH Weston Nurseries, Inc. Tel: (508) 435-3414 VICE PRESIDENT Chris O’Brien, MCH Howard Designs, Inc. Tel: (617) 244-7269 SECRETARY/TREASURER Kerry Preston, MCH Wisteria & Rose, Inc. (617) 522-3843 PAST PRESIDENT Tim Hay, MCH Bigelow Nurseries, Inc. Tel: (508) 845-2143 DIRECTORS Deborah Trickett, MCH The Captured Garden Steve Charette Farm Family Insurance Family David Vetelino, MCH Vetelino Landscape, Inc

EDUCATION & RESEARCH COMMITTEE Deborah Trickett, MCH — Board Liaison The Captured Gardens (781) 329-9698 FINANCIAL COMMITTEE (FINCOM) Steve Corrigan, MCH — Chair Mountain View Landscapes & Lawncare, Inc. Tel: (413) 536-7555 Chuck Baker, MCH — Vice Chair Strictly Pruning Tel: (508) 429-7189 GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE Chris O’Brien, MCH — Chair Howard Designs, Inc. Tel: (617) 244-7269 HISTORY COMMITTEE Philip Boucher, MCH — Chair Elysian Garden Designs Tel: (508) 695-9630 Skott Rebello, MCH — Vice Chair Harborside P.S. Tel: (508) 994-9208

Jean Dooley, MCH Mahoney’s Garden Centers

MASSACHUSETTS CERTIFIED HORTICULTURIST BOARD (MCH) Jack Elicone, MCH — Chair John R. Elicone Consulting Tel: (617) 527-5706 Corinne Jean, MCH — Vice Chair Wisteria & Rose (617) 522-3843 PRODUCTS COMMITTEE Peter Mezitt, MCH — ­­ Chair Weston Nurseries, Inc. Tel: (508) 435-3414 PUBLICATIONS: Editor in Chief: Rena Sumner Editor: Kathleen Carroll Advisors: Ron Kujawski, Rick Reuland, Trevor Smith, Beverly Sturtevant

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS DIRECTOR Jason Wentworth Tel: (617) 417-4050 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Rena M. Sumner Tel: (413) 369-4731

David Anderson Mayer Tree Service

pro grow news Massachusetts Nursery & Landscape Association P.O. Box 387 Conway, MA 01341 mnlaoffice@aol.com www.mnla.com www.PlantSomethingMA.org www.mnlafoundation.org

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ProGrowNews is published quarterly by the Massachusetts Nursery & Landscape Association (MNLA), P.O. Box 387, Conway, MA 01341, tel. (413) 369-4731.

Articles do not necessarily reflect the view or position of MNLA. Editorial coverage or permission to advertise does not constitute endorsement of the company covered or of an advertiser’s products or services, nor does ProGrowNews make any claims or guarantees as to the accuracy or validity of the advertiser’s offer. (c) 2014 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in print or electronically without the express written permission of the MNLA.

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President’s Message

The Value of Membership ByPeter Mezitt, MCH

I

think we can all agree that there seems to be an overall lack of urgency these days among many folks to be productive contributors to the economy. The percentage of ablebodied people who are out of the workforce is at an all-time high, and those who are working can often feel bitter about the increased demands placed on them. To add to this frustration, not all customers have the aptitude or the patience to deal with reduced staff while waiting in line at their local bakery or on hold with the understaffed airline call center. Nurses and pilots who show up to work every day and maintain a pleasant demeanor are today’s heroes!

I would argue that those of us who place value on showing up to work and making a difference will stand to benefit the most in the future. There are now more opportunities than ever to contribute to a cause or make a positive impact to help your business grow. College graduates have seen their starting salaries skyrocket over the past 18 months as employers compete to hire unproven talent in hopes they will become an integral part of the corporation. Our industry has had to spend an incredible amount of time developing hiring strategies to attract people with little to no experience, successfully onboard them, and provide continuous opportunities that will keep people happy and engaged — not a bad thing!

I believe things will start to balance out this year.

Government subsidies will lessen, cost of living will continue to increase, we will become exasperated with COVID controlling our lives, and people will want to start doing more things like traveling and spending money on hobbies.

With excuses and incentives diminishing, people will have to jump back into the workforce if they want to live their life to the fullest. Fortunately, our industry is a known careerchange industry, and we can benefit from people re-entering the workforce and wanting to do something different with their lives.

Things will not change overnight. With a shortage of people and product going into 2022, I believe we have to plan on doing more with less once again this year.

As a group of people who have to shoulder a lot of responsibility, I encourage you to utilize MNLA as a “resource for your success.” Your organization puts together many events and learning opportunities that address not only the technical side of horticultural field, but many other aspects that help us become more capable and competent with the way we live our lives or run our businesses. These are the times we can all prove something to ourselves and challenge ourselves to learn and do better.

Just a for-instance: This year, pending bills in the legislature may present a challenge to many of our members’ businesses.

Have you taken the time to get to know our MNLA legislative Winter|2022

liaison Jason Wentworth? He is a wealth of information. Just knowing about him and what he does will better prepare you for any changes in state and local government that may have an impact on your business. If you want to learn more, visit the MNLA website for his upcoming webinar.

I love plants and horticulture as much as most of you, but it is during these times that I recommend challenging yourself to take time to set some goals for yourself. I take time to do this during the winter myself.

MNLA wants to help you. Keep an eye out for upcoming live and online events where you will have the opportunity to learn and network with the awesome, talented people who all can learn from one another.

Sincerely, Peter Mezitt, MCH Weston Nurseries, Inc. MNLA President

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Committee Reports

Government Relations Update Greenhouse Regulations Addressed

by Jason Wentworth

A

s we’ve recently reported, the Massachusetts State House continues to remain closed to the public. While it being the only state house in North America to remain inaccessible to the average citizen has irked many, it seems that there’s wisdom to that approach, at least now. With the Omicron variant of COVID wreaking havoc in every rung, such an opening would have undoubtedly created more chances for infection.

At this time, a hard and fast opening date remains elusive.

While the State House remains closed to us, there are other pressing matters to deal with. On Thursday, December 9, 2021, MNLA President Peter Mezitt, MNLA Vice President Chris O’Brien, and I were joined by industry members, including the Massachusetts Flower Growers’ Association, at a meeting in Boston with representatives from the Board of Building Regulation and Standards (BBRS) and Fire Services to discuss proposed language that, if interpreted a certain way, would subject the average greenhouse to the same kind of regulatory scrutiny as not just a cannabis operation, but also a factory.

How would this impact growers and greenhouse owners?

Unnecessary and burdensome safety measures could be required to satisfy local inspectional authorities, creating a patchwork of regulatory interpretations that would be expensive to implement. What would that mean for landscape designers and installers? As with anything, the cost of production could be passed down to every rung on the

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consumer ladder. Again, we are not talking about necessary safety measures, but very unnecessary measures that are not based in any other reality but perception.

If that logic seems impenetrable, you’re not alone.

After more than two years of struggling to have a bilateral conversation with the powers that be, we were finally able to sit at the same table and discuss the matter, bolstered in no small part by a letter of support from MDAR Commissioner John Lebeaux.

The result of the meeting? For the regulatory agencies assembled, a better understanding of who we are, what we do, and what’s at stake for our businesses. For us, an opportunity to have input on the next step of this draft, giving us an opportunity to clarify and categorize things that are not relevant to our industry, which are many. It’s an evolving process, but one that we wouldn’t be a part of if not for the leadership of groups like MNLA and its collaborative approach. We will continue to push for a fair, common-sense approach in regulations that ensures the safety of our employees and customers and the sustainability of our industry.

Jason Wentworth, Peacefield Strategies MNLA Government Relations Director

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Committee Reports

MCH Corner Ready for 2022 MCH Events?

H

appy New Year! As we take much-needed downtime during the winter or in between snowstorms, it is the perfect time to plan for this year’s MCH events.

We start off on March 2nd with our winter MCH Exam. For anyone taking it, it is a 150 multiple-choice written section, and you choose 20 of 25 plant samples for the plant identification section. The second chance to take the exam this year will be in August.

August is my favorite time as an MCH as we all get together for Plant Geek Day. Each year has a different feel, and I always walk away proud of an industry that makes these awe-inspiring places. Last year’s event at Long Hill had me walking around stumped as I viewed the mature tree specimens, which sparked my interest in new plants or those plants long forgotten. It was also our highest attended Plant Geek Day. It can be so easy to continue to use my good old standard plants, and Plant Geek Day always has me ready to try something out of the box when I leave. This year’s event will be held at Blithewold Mansion in Bristol, Rhode Island, on Wednesday, August 24, 2022. That is right: This year’s MCHs are going out of state. It has been twelve years since our last event there, and the MCH Board is itching to get back.

The last two years have been a time when many of us have really evaluated what we want in life, business, etc. While last spring feels like two years ago to me, I have recently

reflected on where I was then, both in business and personally. As with anything in life, goals were set, plans were made, tactics were shifted, and headway towards those goals have been made.

I want to set the same goal for MCH events, so I ask you all: What do you really want from your MCH continued education and participation? Is it plant-themed bingo night, more socializing events with our fellow horticulturists, group volunteering, online plant ID quizzes or webinars, or even a good, old-fashioned field day pitting company versus company for the tug of war? The possibilities are endless! Let us shake things up a bit.

Community involvement is the name of the game. If you have some ideas on this, or better yet want to get involved, join our talented team on the MCH Board.

Best wishes for 2022. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone soon.

Corinne Jeanne, MCH Wisteria & Rose MCH Vice Chairman

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Celebrate the Season

Landscape inspiration for a cold

by Trevor Smith, MCH , AOLCP, LEED GA

P

lant like no one is watching. To play on the famous saying, I say this with the full intent of the phrase.

To dance like no one is watching implies letting go of inhibition, feeling the music, and moving in celebration of life without caring how one may look. To plant like no one is watching is to celebrate the Earth, the landscape, the plants and rocks, and our connection to them.

Allow the season to flow through you like music and express without regard to the “rules.” This concept is what I teach my students in my Regenerative Design course. Plant like no one is watching.

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To accomplish this, we must realize that the time to plant for aesthetic alone has passed. For centuries, people have been bending nature to their will. We are changing whole environments or microenvironments to accommodate a desired aesthetic. Coupled with industry, we changed the environment to meet our financial desires. We are eliminating entire forests for timber or monocropping. We have strayed from the seasons in the way we eat, and now strawberries are available year-round. We have engineered and manipulated nature to mirror the ondemand nature of our technology. We have what we want when we want it delivered to our door.

This mindset has permeated the landscape and gardening industry with the hybridizing of plants for longer blooms and fertilizers that grow plants quicker or keep lawns greener

when they should be dormant. I was recently asked why two equally sized hydrangea standards, bought at the same time, didn’t grow the same and stay “matching” four years later.

I often find myself explaining the nature of nature — her uniqueness, quirks, and imperfections. I compare matching plants to twins and how they are almost identical, but each has unique traits. This type of questioning led me to several talks, articles, and classes to adjust the lens through which we see the world, especially the landscape. To show people the depth, detail, and uniqueness of the land and the plants that grow there. To show them the time involved in growing a garden is part of the beauty. Like raising a child, there is magic and beauty

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winter’s day in every phase. There are special moments to be enjoyed that may never occur again. I remind people that moments in the garden are the commas in our busy lives. To pause, take a breath, and reflect. To remember that we, too, are a part of nature.

This is a pretty sentiment, but what does it mean? How does this idea translate into design? Start by realizing that your garden or landscape is part of the entire ecosystem, and what you plant and what you do in your garden has a much more significant effect.

The first concept I teach is “be the plunk.”

If you were to cast a stone into a pond, the plunk is the moment the stone enters the water. From there, ripples are sent across the surface. To be the plunk means to cast the ripples of your action as far as you can. If your garden is the stone, then the plants you

Winter|2022

choose and the products you choose to use in the garden are the plunk.

Using this idea if you would like to create a perennial bed means choosing plants that will provide bloom all season. You create beauty for your eye.

Ripple. But you also will provide nectar and pollen for many bees, butterflies, and moths. Ripple. If you incorporate native species, then your garden is not only beautiful for you, but it also has more of an impact on the pollinator community. Ripple. If you choose to add some native host plants, you will not only increase the number of pollinators in your garden, but you will also increase the number of birds who live there eating caterpillars. Ripple. If you choose specific natives, your perennial

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bed could provide pollen to specialized native bee species, and your perennial bed could play a role in saving a native bee from extinction.

And you thought you were just planting some flowers. This principle has inspired a deep sense of reverence for my work.

beckia, echinacea penstemon, and grasses.

How do these add contrast and interest?

There are seeds for birds, and the stalks are winter cover for my pollinators. Do I have late-season blooms for migrating insects and those preparing to hibernate?

Summer gardens always look beautiful, even if poorly designed. In summer, I return my focus to the static pieces of the landscape — the stones — and evergreens. I like to mask stone either entirely or partially, taking it from view so when it returns in the autumn and winter, it will be discovered all over again and appreciated. The evergreens provide contrast and backdrop to the flowers and leaves of the perennials, changing their appearance from that of autumn and winter. If static elements remain as they are, we soon fail to notice and appreciate them.

The garden in spring is the most appreciated. Eyes starved for color scan the landscape searching for signs that winter’s veil has finally lifted. Through bulbs and ephemerals, I look to get life and color in the landscape as early as the warming spring sun will allow. I am

Celebrate the season

In designing a landscape, I begin with the winter and work my way back through the seasons. I begin with form and static elements like stone. Consider the evergreens but also the skeletal shapes of the woody plants. How do those forms relate to each other and to the design as a whole? What will those structures look like on a canvas of snow?

Next to autumn. When placing trees and shrubs, I consider their fall color. Do I want a pocket of red, or do I want to add a splash of yellow? What will slanting rays of the morning or evening sun look like coming through this tree or shrub? Have I provided any berries for the birds? When designing perennials, I consider seed heads and stalks of plants past bloom like rud-

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conscious of all the overwintering pollinators awakening from winter slumber ravenous, so I provide early blooms for pollen and nectar, offering a healthy start for the new generation within the garden. These early players set the stage for the more robust characters to take the lead as spring progresses.

I teach that one way to approach residential design is to view the landscape as a wave that rolls out from the foundation, blanketing the property before retreating. The other is the stage, with areas of the garden or landscape lighting up at different times of year contributing to the story of the season.

A Part of Nature

To assume our role as a part of nature, and plant like no one is watching and allow ourselves to get swept up in the song of the season. Through our choices and actions, we create gardens and landscapes that speak to the essence of each season, both in beauty and in bounty, providing for the larger ecosystem. Then, with winter’s quiet upon us, sit and reflect on all that was and allow the joy of being a part of it all to keep us warm until spring arrives once again.

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The Snow Molds

By M. Bess Dicklow and Angela Madeiras

S

now mold refers to a group of diseases that occur in cool to cold weather and are favored by snow cover. The principal diseases are gray snow mold and pink snow mold.

Gray Snow Mold

Gray snow mold is also known as Typhula blight. In the northeast, it is most often caused by the fungus Typhula incarnata, while T. ishikariensis is more common in colder regions. The disease is called gray snow mold due to the characteristic gray-white mycelium that appears at snowmelt.

The disease occurs where snow cover is present throughout the winter and infects all species of turfgrass. Symptoms appear after snowmelt as circular patches, 1–3 ft in diameter, of yellow, straw-colored, or gray-brown turf. Individual leaves are matted and often covered with a lint-like, gray-towhite mycelium that disappears as the grass dries. The leaves become grayish to silvery-white, brittle, and matted. Large areas of turf may be affected, but in most cases, only the leaves are killed, and regrowth occurs from the plant crowns.

Both species of Typhula produce sclerotia — small, hard, round structures, visible to the naked eye, on infected leaves.

T. incarnata produces larger, cinnamon-brown sclerotia, while those of T. ishikariensis are smaller and black.

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Typhula species survive the summer as sclerotia, which germinate when exposed to wet, cool conditions in late fall to form sporocarps (fruiting bodies) or mycelium. The pathogens grow well at temperatures near freezing and under snow covering wet turf in unfrozen soil. The disease is favored by deep snow that prevents the soil from freezing, high relative humidity within the turf canopy, mats of dead grass leaves, and high nitrogen levels that promote succulent growth. The disease typically requires at least 60 days of snow cover to develop, and is most severe when snow cover is present for 90 days or more. Disease susceptibility varies among turf species: certain cultivars of Kentucky bluegrass are among least susceptible.

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Pink Snow Mold

Pink snow mold is also known as Microdochium patch. It is caused by Microdochium nivale (formerly Fusarium nivale) and is commonly referred to as pink snow mold due to the occurrence of spores in a pink matrix of mycelium and sporodochia (fruiting bodies) under moist and sunny conditions.

The disease is not confined to snow-covered turf, but can occur any time of year in cool, humid weather. Kentucky bluegrass and fine-leaved fescues tend to be less susceptible to damage than other species. Pink snow mold may occur alone or in conjunction with other cold-weather diseases. Symptoms develop following long periods of cool, wet weather and first appear as small water-soaked spots that turn orange-brown to dark reddish-brown before fading to light-gray or tan. The spots are usually less than 8 in. in diameter with a dark, watersoaked margin. Under snow cover or in very wet conditions, spots may be covered with a fluffy white mycelium. As the snow melts, spots appear bleached-white to tan, often with a pink margin.

M. nivale survives unfavorable periods in plant debris and infected plants. The pathogen grows rapidly under overcast, wet conditions and temperatures ranging from near freezing to 60°F. Conidia (spores) and infected debris are transported to healthy areas on equipment and shoes. Pink snow mold is most severe in excessively thatched turf that is growing slowly

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and under snow covering unfrozen soil.

It is favored by repeated frosts, cold fogs, slow drizzling rains, high nitrogen levels, compacted soil, and matted foliage. The disease becomes inactive during warm, sunny periods and when there is little surface moisture.

• • •

Cultural Management

• Avoid heavy applications of nitrogen in late fall. Apply fertilizer a few weeks before dormancy. Slow-release forms are recommended for fall fertilization. As a rule of thumb, no nitrogen should be applied after the first frost.

• Continue to mow the grass until growth ceases to prevent a tall canopy.

• Avoid excessive thatch.

• Reduce compaction of snow by snowmobiles, skis, and animals.

• Prevent the formation of large snowdrifts by proper placement of snow fences, wind barriers, or similar structures.Promote rapid drying

• •

and warming in the spring by snow removal and improving drainage.

Promote new growth in the spring with light fertilization.

Reseed affected areas if regrowth does not occur.

Improve drainage in problematic areas prior to reseeding. The aim is to prevent water from pooling in these areas when snow melts next spring.

Plant resistant turf species or cultivars.

Maintain a soil pH of 6.5 to 6.9 and high levels of potassium to discourage Microdochium patch.

Chemical Management

Cultural management techniques, particularly raking and light fertilization, are frequently sufficient to control snow molds on residential turf. Fungicides are typically not recommended. If fungicides are used, they must be applied in late fall.

Fungicides applied in spring are ineffective. Additionally, the turf must be actively growing in order for recovery to occur,

and this may be delayed if temperatures remain low.

A single application can give winterlong control if the right fungicides are chosen, and there are many to choose from. Combinations of a contact (protectant) fungicide and systemic are highly recommended. For a listing of fungicides currently labeled to manage these pathogens, refer to the Disease Management chapter of UMass Extension’s Professional Guide for IPM in Turf for Massachusetts.

M. Bess Dicklow is a retired extension plant pathologist for the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

This article was updated in 2022 by Angela Madeiras UMass, Extension Extension Plant Pathologist.

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Year of the Lilac

Superior Plant Choices for 2022 and Beyond

E

ach year, the National Garden Bureau selects one annual (Verbena), one perennial (Phlox), one bulb crop (Gladiolus), one edible (Salad Greens), and one shrub (Lilac) as their “Year of the” crops. Plants are chosen because they are popular, easy-to-grow, widely adaptable, genetically diverse, and versatile. Learn more about this year’s plants, download photos, logos, and more on each 2022 Year Of plant page at www.ngb.org/year-of-plants-2022/.

Snapshots of some of the plants Year of the Lilac

Lilacs are among the most carefree spring-flowering, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrubs (or small trees), well-loved for their toughness, reliability, and fragrance.

Lilac blooms go far beyond every imaginable shade of

lilac/purple from very pale to very dark. Look for lilacs in hues of red, pink, blue, yellow, cream, and white — even picotee (white-edged, deep-purple ‘Sensation’). The color may change from bud to bloom and as the flowers mature. Individual flowers can be single or double.

Many gardeners, especially those in urban spaces, just don’t have the room for the traditional larger lilacs yet want all their beauty and fragrance. Breeders have been hard at work creating compact varieties. There’s no excuse now for not having the joy, fragrance, and beauty that lilacs bring in spring. These beauties will even grow happily in a container on your balcony.

Pinktini™ Lilac (Syringa x prestoniae) is new in garden centers in Spring 2022. Upright, compact, and cold hardy to Zone 2, this new pink-blooming variety is great for small spaces and early-season blooms in cold climates. Pinktini™ is more compact and tidier than the classic ‘Miss Canada’ lilac.

Pinktini from Bailey Nurseries – National Garden Bureau

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Bloomerang Dark Purple by Proven Winners – National Garden Bureau Bloomerang lilacs are outstanding reblooming lilacs with a profusion of stunning, sweetly scented clusters of star-like flowers in spring that seem to cover the plant and then rebloom less profusely from midsummer until the first frost. The fragrant flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators and are both disease and deer-resistant. Hardy to Zone 3.

• Bloomerang Dark Purple grows 4 to 6 feet tall and wide with dark purple flowers. Bloomerang® Dwarf Pink grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide with pure pink flowers.

• Bloomerang Dwarf Purple grows like Bloomerang® Dwarf Pink, but with purple flowers.

• Bloomerang Pink Perfume grows 4 to 5 feet tall and wide with highly fragrant, pink flowers.

• Bloomerang Purple grows 4 to 5 feet tall and wide and bears purple flowers.

Winter|2022

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21

Year of the Phlox Year of the Phlox

Phlox is a wide-ranging North American native perennial and a common fixture in woodland, prairie, and meadow landscapes. Phlox are an easy-to-find wildflower stretching from Florida and Quebec to Alaska. One of the classic American perennials, this was one of the earliest North American natives to enter cultivation. With vibrant flower colors and blooms lasting many weeks, it is easy to understand what caught the eye of so many gardeners through the years.

Although there is great variation within the genus, a tubular flower with five petals is common in all types. Flower color varies between white, pink, magenta, purple, and blue across the genus, with some species showing notable orange or red coloration. All species are popular with pollinators.

Phlox is a genus with a multitude of species, heights,

bloom times, and garden applications. Many of these species are unrecognizable to the average gardener but are becoming more common in newer varieties now available. Through all of the diversity, perennial phlox can be loosely grouped into two types: spring bloomers and summer bloomers.

Spring Bloomers (Creeping/Groundcovers) Phlox subulata (Creeping Phlox, Moss Pinks) and other early-spring blooming species are low-growing, ground-hugging plants. Typically native to rocky, well-drained environments, when put in a garden without restriction, they become carpets of color. Most of these types tend to spread and work well as groundcovers.

Drummond’s Pink’ Phlox subulata – An exceptionally vigorous spring bloomer Creeping series with large pink flowers.

Summer Bloomers (tall garden phlox and related types)

When referring to Phlox, most first think of Tall Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata). This clump-forming perennial blooms in midsummer and is among the tallest of this species. Also characteristic of Tall Garden Phlox are the perfectly formed large, rounded flower panicles that top each stem.

In addition to Tall Garden Phlox, summer-blooming species (including Phlox glaberimma and Phlox pilosa to name a few) are becoming more common, particularly in newer varieties. These newer garden varieties tend to bloom a bit earlier, have a more mounded shape, and have a stoloniferous habit. Also characteristic of summer bloomers is a propensity to rebloom after the first flush of flowers, particularly when trimmed back.

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Sweet Summer® Phlox paniculata – Compact series of Tall Garden type at 1½-2’ tall with good mildew resistance.

Sweet Summer Red by Syngenta – National Garden Bureau www.mnla.com

pro|grow|news

The Best Plans Deserve the Best Landscaping Products

40 Frankland Road, Hopkinton 3 River Street, Middleborough 160 Pine Hill Road, Chelmsford 1099 Main Street, Hingham

(508) 293-8028 (508) 946-1505 (978) 349-0055 (781) 749-3773

commsales@westonnurseries.com westonwholesale.com Winter|2022

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23

Year of the Verbena Year of the Verbena

Verbena are known for withstanding the pressure of hot, dry conditions. Most verbenas on the market are hybrid cultivars bred to have a winning combination of traits from many different verbena species.

These hybrid varieties generally have larger flowers; brighter and more saturated colors; and larger, more weather-tolerant leaves than their species relatives.

They are also bred to be more heat, water-stress, and disease tolerant (especially powdery mildew). These cultivars are often available in a series that includes verbenas with similar characteristics and in different colors.

Leaves and foliage are often dense and in many species “hairy.” Its flowers are small with five petals, arranged in dense clusters. Typical colors include shades of blue and purple, but they can also be found in white and pink shades. Environmental factors can determine the flowering time and size of a verbena plant. As temperatures rise, some plants may go out of color and stay green until a cool-off. Others are bred to withstand heat and humidity with flowers and bulky growth non-stop through the growing season. Pollinators love verbena! Hummingbirds, butterflies, and moths are all frequent visitors. Bees of all types love verbena, too.

Compiled by Kathleen Carroll

EnduraScape™ Pink Bicolor is a 2017 All-America Selections winner.

This vigorous and spreading, long-flowering plant can be considered a hardy annual (zone 7) since it thrives in the heat and can take some chilling temperatures as well.

Below: EnduraScape in the border

Lanai has distinct color patterns that remain strong and stable (and powdery mildew resistant) throughout the growing season. Lanais come in three types: regular, compact, and upright.

Twister series is popular because of its unique tricolor blooms and long-flowering periods.

Lanai Twister Red from Syngenta – National Garden Bureau

|24

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pro|grow|news

Winter|2022

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25

Feedback:

Why Are We So Afraid?

By David Anderson

I

t is often said that the fear of public speaking is one of the greatest phobias for people to overcome. This makes sense. Performing in front of a large group with all eyes on you and nowhere to hide is scary.

A more common although less obvious fear is the fear of offering or hearing constructive criticism, more commonly known in corporate jargon as feedback. Even with people we have great relationships with, we struggle. We are afraid to hurt people’s feelings or even ruin the relationship. So what do we do instead? We talk behind their backs, make fun of them, or complaining about that annoying thing they do.

That’s not really helpful but it’s easy. It is not easy to look someone in the eye and offer constructive feedback. However, if you want people to improve, its essential.

Delivering Feedback You can say anything to anyone. However, you need to know When and How. When — •

You have thought out what you want to say.

•

You are not emotional.

•

You’re in private.

•

You both have enough time.

•

The person you want to speak with is in a

•

Be prepared to look in the mirror. Do not offer feedback if you are not ready to receive it.

•

Seek to understand where they are coming from — their mood, their position, how they think, what is going on in their life.

•

Treat them with respect and start with common ground. “I agree with you on that point, but how about we try it this way.” “Yes, we should do that, but can I make a suggestion?”

•

Ask for clarification. “What did you mean when you said that?” “My perception was this; is that what you meant?” We often make assumptions that are incorrect that make a problem worse. “Oh, you did not mean to…?”

•

Speak softly, slowly, and less.

•

Listen intently to show you care. Practice active listening so they know you heard them.

•

After offering feedback ask, “Am I being fair?”

•

Give the person room to respond to your probing. It should be a give-and-take.

•

Role play with someone you trust to prepare for this important conversation.

•

Always be professional and courteous. You don’t want to insult someone; you ultimately want to help them because you care about the person.

•

Concentrate on the specific subject. not the person.

•

Thank them for their time, and be sure to follow up to show how important the relationship is.

•

When the stakes are high, document what was discussed and ask them to review it for accuracy.

good frame of mind.

How —

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•

Frame the conversation. “Can I give you some feedback?” “When you said X, I felt Y.” “I wanted to follow up our conversation.”

•

Be very open-minded and objective.

Giving feedback is very important. If you can learn to do it well, this will put you ahead of 90% of people. It will also deepen your relationship with people.

www.mnla.com

pro|grow|news

David M. Anderson has over 30 years of experience in horticulture, client service, and public relations. He works for Mayer Tree Service. David is a Massachusetts Certified Arborist, Certified Landscape Professional, and Certified Tree Care

Safety Professional. He was the chairman of the Massachusetts Certified Arborist Board for three years and is currently a board member of the Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association.

David has authored several articles for

trade publications and frequently gives presentations to garden clubs, trade organizations, and students on a variety of topics. In the last several years, he has become more involved in and passionate about employee engagement.

Welcome to the MNLA Virtual Forum!

Possibilities & potential: green industry job opportunities.

Online education at its finest!

Job listings available throughout the year.

These in-depth sessions include live Q&A with speakers, community networking, and a full year to rewatch the webinar wherever and whenever you want! 1 MCH credit available per webinar.

Network. Connect. MNLA offers members an effective way to access qualified green industry candidates and fill open positions. Job seekers will find viable and successful career options, along with the opportunity to learn valuable career skills.

Designed to raise professionalism and profits.

Sustainability: Good for you. Good for Earth.

Visit virtualforum.mnla.com today to register for a job listing, educational session, as a speaker and more!

Winter|2022

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27

A Special Opportunity for MNLA Members The Future of the Green Industry — Mentoring

I

f you are looking for a company that can show you the way to mentor high school students in your own community, reach out to Mark Ahronian, MCH, of Ahronian Landscaping & Design, Inc. Mark’s success with mentoring local students is legendary. Mark and his team have been working with interns from Holliston High School for many years. He encourages the school’s career office to watch for students who are interested in looking into a career opportunity in environmental horticulture, landscape, and design.

They have succeeded in turning out great summer college employees as well as filling their own ranks with young leaders who go on to build their own companies, further their knowledge of our industry, and take leadership roles in MNLA. If you have questions or need help in starting an intern program for your company, please give Mark a call. You can contact Mark directly at 508-429-3844 or through the MNLA office at mnlaoffice@aol.com, subject: Mentoring

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www.mnla.com

pro|grow|news

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*Offer valid from January 1, 2022 through June 30, 2022 on new small Cat® machines sold by participating Cat dealers. Offer subject to machine availability and credit approval by Cat Financial. Not all customers will qualify. TA1 equipment inspection; Product Link®; EPP coverage; and final drive oil only for compact track loaders and mini excavators. The maintenance parts cover the first 1,000 hours (estimated 2 years) of machine utilization. The kit contains one set of parts for regular planned maintenance under normal operating conditions. In some severe applications where maintenance parts need to be replaced more frequently, additional parts will be at customer’s expense. Offer excludes additional maintenance parts, dealer labor, wear parts, S•O•SSM and fluids. Payments do not include taxes, freight, set-up, delivery, document fees, inspections, additional options, or attachments. Offer may change without prior notice and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Additional terms and conditions may apply. Contact your Cat dealer for details.

Winter|2022

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Soil Testing and Plant Diagnostic Services University of Connecticut UMaine Soil Testing Service

https://umaine.edu/soiltestinglab/ 207-581-3591

UConn Soil Nutrient Analysis Laboratory https://soiltest.uconn.edu/sampling.php 860-486-4274 soiltest@uconn.edu

Four Seasons Guide 2020-21

UMaine Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory https://extension.umaine.edu/ipm/plant-disease/ 207-581-3880 or 800-287-0279 extension.diagnosticlab@maine.edu

A Year Long Resource —

UConn Plant Diagnostic Laboratory Fee based: Submit sample to https://plant.lab.uconn.edu/ services/ Free: Email picture to PlantDiagnosticLab@uconn.edu 860-486-6271

University of Massachusetts UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory http://soiltest.umass.edu 413-545-2311 UMass Plant Diagnostic Laboratory https://ag.umass.edu/services/plant-diagnostics-laboratory 413- 545-3208

University of New Hampshire

Complete MNLA Membership Massachusetts Certified Horticulturists UMASS Green Industry Resource Guide

University of Vermont UVM Agricultural Soil and Environmental Testing Lab https://www.uvm.edu/extension/agricultural-and-environmental-testing-lab University of Vermont 802-656-3030 agtesting@uvm.edu UVM Plant Diagnostic Clinic https://www.uvm.edu/extension/pdc 802-656-0493 Ann.Hazelrigg@uvm.edu

University of Rhode Island

UNH Cooperative Extension Soil Lab https://extension.unh.edu/agriculture-gardens/pest-diseasegrowing-tools/soil-testing-services 603-862-3200 **There is no plant diagnostic laboratory at UNH.

University of Maine

The Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association

URI Soil (pH Testing Only) https://web.uri.edu/mastergardener/soil-testing-service/ 401-874-2900 URI Plant Protection Clinic (Plant Diagnostics) https://web.uri.edu/coopext/ppc/ 401-874-2900

Highest quality mulch & soil products in New England.

Now taking bulk & bagged mulch orders.

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31

Plant Identification Resources Online

Trees and Shrubs

Cornell University woody plants database http://woodyplants.cals.cornell.edu/home Oregon State University woody plants identification system http://oregonstate.edu/dept/ldplants/plant_ident/ North Carolina State University plant identification online resources: trees https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/category/trees/ North Carolina State University plant identification online resources: shrubs https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/category/shrubs/ Native Plant Trust (formerly New England Wildflower Society), Go Botany https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/simple/woody-plants/ The Noble Foundation plant image gallery https://nobleapps.noble.org/plantimagegallery/woodies.aspx

Perennials and Annuals UMass Extension garden plant identification http://extension.umass.edu/plant-identification/ Native Plant Trust (formerly New England Wildflower Society), Go Botany https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/simple/non-monocots/ North Carolina State University plant identification online resources: perennials https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/category/perennials/ North Carolina State University plant identification online resources: annuals https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/category/annuals/ The Noble Foundation plant image gallery https://nobleapps.noble.org/plantimagegallery/forbs.aspx MEDFORD NURSERY

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NorthernNurseries.com

560-A Eayrestown-Red Lion Rd. Lumberton, NJ 04048

1320 Mountain Rd. West Suffield, CT 06093 • (860)-668-5225

(609)-267-8100

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Toll Free: 800-443-3314

115 Cordell Rd. Schenectady, NY 12304 • (518)-382-1600

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Grow something Altogether. Better. with us.

Griffin is a partner to horticulture professionals.

Family owned and operated since 1947, we apply our knowledge, experience and resources to enhance customer success from production to retail.

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Plant Identification Resources Online

New England Wetland Plants, Inc. Wholesale Native Plant Nursery Your source for...

Trees, Shrubs, Ferns, Flowering Perennials, and Grasses Coastal and Inland Wetland Plants Specialty Seed Mixes Coir Logs, Straw Wattles, Blankets and Mats

Grasses North Carolina State University plant identification online resources: ornamental grass https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/category/ornamental-grass/ Native Plant Trust (formerly New England Wildflower Society), Go Botany https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/simple/graminoids/ The Noble foundation plant image gallery https://nobleapps.noble.org/plantimagegallery/grasses.aspx

Weeds UMass Extension weed herbarium http://extension.umass.edu/landscape/weed-herbarium New Jersey weed gallery https://njaes.rutgers.edu/weeds/ Penn State University Center for Turf Science plant identification http://plantscience.psu.edu/research/centers/turf/extension/plant-id Virginia Tech weed identification guide http://oak.ppws.vt.edu/~flessner/weedguide/genusindex.htm Weed Society of America weed identification http://wssa.net/wssa/weed/weed-identification/

14 Pearl Lane, South Hadley, MA 01075 Phone: (413) 548-8000 Fax: (413) 549-4000 Email: info@newp.com Web: www.newp.com

Holyoke, MA (800) 862-0089

Plainville, CT (888) 889-9996

Charlton, MA (508) 987-0101

Smithfield, RI (401) 232-2597

Wilmington, MA (866) 830-5909

Albany, NY (518) 650-6228

Common weeds of North Central States http://fieldcrop.msu.edu/uploads/documents/Ncr607.pdf Plant ID Resources compiled by Geoffrey Njue, UMass Amherst

Norwalk, CT (203) 831-9748

|34

www.mnla.com

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978-768-6688 mayertree.com | 35

Advertiser Index

MARKETPLACE

A&B Insurance Group ......................................7 Acorn Tree and Landscape .......................... 39 American National .........................................17 Amherst Nurseries .........................................36 Arborjet ...........................................................31 Ballard Truck Center ......................................14 Bigelow Nursery ............................................32 Cavicchio Landscape Supplies, Inc. ............13 Connecticut Mulch Distributors, Inc.............30 Fairview Evergreen Nurseries ........................9 Farm Credit East ...........................................19 Green Mountain Mulch .................................28 Griffin Greenhouse ........................................33 Ideal Concrete Block ........................................2 Mayer Tree Service ........................................35

Hortus humorous —

Medford Nursery ...........................................32 Milton Cat ......................................................29 New England Regional Turfgrass Show........25 New England Wetland Plants .......................34 Northeast Nursery ........................................40 Northern Nurseries .......................................32 OESCO..............................................................15 Pierson Nurseries, Inc. ..................................18 Prides Corner Farm ........................................12 Sylvan Nursery ..................................................5 Valley Green ..................................................34 Vermont Mulch ..............................................15 Weston Nurseries ..........................................23

|36

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Special Announcement

pro grow news Committment to Qualtiy

The Massachsetts Nursery and

Landscape Association has a

long history of innnovation.

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reflection of MNLA and its position in the industry. Its purpose is to promote the environmental well-being of the state as well as the highest levels of business ethics within the profession.

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2022 has brought a renewed commitment to quality for pro|grow|news readers and advertisers will see: • larger issues • enhanced enhanced content • larger pictures • more features • greater variety • focused issue content • on-time delivery • deadlines you can count on • seasonal content and ads delivered on time

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pro|grow|news delivers loyal and active readers to its advertis4x ers. Our policy remains — keep ad $613 rates affordable in order to attract more product choices for mem510 bers. This commitment has not wavered.

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For Advertising Information — Call Debbie Rauen (817) 501-2403 • debbie.parksandrec@yahoo.com Winter|2022

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37

Plant for Success

Bloodroot

By Simone Nemes Why This Plant Shines This spring ephemeral plant is best used as an early spring bloomer. Since this plant is a bit expensive to buy retail, it is best to plant a couple of the roots in a shady natural area that has lots of leaves and organic material. Garden in the Woods carries this rare ephemeral in their nursery.

I love using this plant because it is a native plant that naturalizes in woodland areas, and the seeds are spread by ants. It is a member of the poppy family and has sublime little white flowers that last only a few days. The foliage is very unique. Any client who is a native plant lover will love this plant as an addition to their garden.

This plant blooms in March or April, just as the snow is beginning to melt and before any other plants have put out their leaves. It is the ultimate harbinger of spring. I have found naturalized stands of it at the Stoneham Fells. They are rare and elusive to see in bloom in the wild.

This plant looks great planted with other natives such as trilliums, dicentra, or dutchman’s britches. Interestingly, bloodroot has roots that are orangey-red on the inside, and the root juice contains many alkaloids that can be caustic to the skin and poisonous if ingested. Who could imagine that such a beautiful spring flower could be so dangerous?

|38

Facts and Features Botanical Name: Sanguinaria canadensis Common Name: Bloodroot Type: Herbaceous perennial Zone: 3 to 8 Soil: Rich woodland or along streams, high organic content Size: 6-9 feet Growth Rate: Fast Simone Nemes is with Jean Brooks Landscapes in Chelsea, Massachusetts.

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