PRO GROW NEWS Fall 2018 Digital Edition

pro grow news FALL 2018

www.mnla.com

The Modern Green Roof Revolution Favorite Plants for Winter Interest

Outdoor Living with Style

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pro grow news FALL 2018

contents Features 10 The Modern Green Roof Revolution

14 Favorite Plants for Winter Interest

14 Sharpest Tool in the Shed

Departments

5 President’s Message

30 Ad Index

On the cover — One of Fall’s most reliable favorites — Autumn Joy Sedum ­Photo courtesy of Gaele McCully, MCH, MCLP

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pro grow news FALL 2018

committees

board PRESIDENT Tim Hay, MCH Bigelow Nurseries, Inc. Tel: (508) 845-2143

EDUCATION & RESEARCH COMMITTEE

VICE PRESIDENT Peter Mezitt, MCH Weston Nurseries, Inc. Tel: (508) 435-3414

FINANCIAL COMMITTEE (FINCOM) Steve Corrigan, MCH — Chair Mountain View Landscapes & Lawncare, Inc. Tel: (413) 536-7555

SECRETARY/TREASURER Chris O’Brien, MCH Howard Designs, Inc. Tel: (617) 244-7269 PAST PRESIDENT Jim Stucchi, MCH Ahronian Landscape and Design, Inc. Tel: (508) 429-3844 DIRECTORS Deborah Trickett, MCH The Captured Garden

Kerry Preston, MCH Wisteria & Rose, Inc. Steve Charette Farm Family Insurance Family

David Vetelino, MCH Vetelino Landscape, Inc Jean Dooley, MCH Mahoney’s Garden Centers

Kathy Bergmann, MCH — Chair Bergmann Construction Tel: (508) 435-3414

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

MASSACHUSETTS CERTIFIED HORTICULTURIST BOARD (MCH) Jack Elicone, MCH — Chair John R. Elicone Consulting Tel: (617) 527-5706 PRODUCTS COMMITTEE Peter Mezitt, MCH — ­­ Chair Weston Nurseries, Inc. Tel: (508) 435-3414

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS DIRECTOR Jason Wentworth Tel: (617) 417-4050 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

HISTORY COMMITTEE Philip Boucher, MCH — Chair Elysian Garden Designs Tel: (508) 695-9630

Rena M. Sumner Tel: (413) 369-4731

Skott Rebello, MCH — Vice Chair Harborside P.S. Tel: (508) 994-9208 MAGAZINE COMMITTEE Gaele McCully, MCH MCLP — Chair Mahoney’s Garden Center Tel: (781) 729-5900

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.

www.mnla.com

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President’s Message

Where Did the Summer Go? ByTim Hay

A

s I look back at this summer, it feels as though we were living a real version of Goldilocks. It was too wet out west and too dry in the east, but those in the middle look to be just right. I must admit I got really tired of watering the vegetable garden EVERY day. The heat and humidity took its toll on plants and people alike. I hope you all got away to a cool spot to recharge for fall. For me, going to work and seeing trees putting on inches of caliper and shrubs growing more than a foot this season has been a pleasure.

Give a big “GREAT JOB!” to the Education Committee and the MCH board. This summer’s Down to Earth event was a great time. The speakers were informative and the Hort Olympics had everyone’s interest. Glad to see even past-presidents were up to the challenge. I look forward to seeing it again next summer. I will not steal their thunder, but Down to Earth 2019 is going to a member site and yes, it is a grower location.

It was a pleasure to see the Rose Kennedy Greenway as a fully grown and functioning urban park. Mother Nature also attended,

with torrential rain for the start, but bright blue sky by mid-morning.

If you missed Plant Geek Day, I encourage you to take a trip to Boston and stroll down the Greenway. It is full of plants, food, and fun for everyone. The staff and volunteers do a wonderful job keeping it all in order. The fact that it is an all-organic process is amazing. Thanks go to the MCH board for the great location to introduce new MCH members.

Mark those calendars now. The Winter Forum & Job Fair as well as the Annual Meeting on February 26 & 27 are moving east. We have a new location and plans for more exposure for venders. MNLA is working to be that strong and viable “Resource for Success” that every one of us needs. Please feel free to contact me with any question, concerns, or just to catch up at timhay@ bigelownurseries.com.

Tim Hay, MCH Bigelow Nurseries, Inc. MNLA President

Mark Your Calendar­— Meet your Board of Directors at MNLA’s Annual Meeting Luncheon on February 27, 2019.

MNLA Events in 2019 — February 26 & 27, 2019 - Green Industry `Winter Forum “Dreams & Solutions” February 26, 2019 - MCH EXAM February 27, 2019 - MNLA Annual Meeting July 25, 2019 - Down to Earth Summer Conference & Trade Show, Hosted by: Sylvan Nursery, Westport, MA August 21, 2019 - Plant Geek Day, Location to be confirmed November 6, 2019 - Plant Healthcare Day at Elm Bank, Wellesley, MA Fall|2018

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MNLA Committees MNLA Committees History Committee

MCH Committee

Uncovering Stories

Concerned About Earning Your MCH Credits?

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ot so long ago, I thought when I reached a certain age, life would be more carefree, calm, leisurely, and overall a lot easier. I would have more time to read, take frequent day trips, and catch up on projects. Boy was I wrong!

Though self-induced, life is just as hectic and time challenged by new jobs I have found — or have found me.

Life has expanded in dizziness due to the perceived slowdown of being out to pasture while juggling family and friends, travel, civic life, volunteer work, and health appointment issues. Though there seems to be no end, in fairness, I was the person who let the devil in the door. Even understanding commitment, there can be little consolation when an eyebrow goes up regarding the amount of time spent on volunteer work. This has me thinking about our past presidents and other long-serving board/ committee members and what is going on in their post-MNLA lives.

Some of the best stories involve people we have known but see infrequently. . Each is a walking chapter in their own narrative reflecting their wins and losses. We want to spotlight the uniqueness of each person as a follow-up to their association service — significant stories that come from nearly all the decades during the march to our 110th year in 2020.

There is a long list. There will be the usual grandparent roles, those returning to the businesses that allowed them to serve, starting new businesses, serving in local politics and on major state committees or boards, as well as educators, lecturers, an accomplished painter, a photographer. Those stories will show the post-service accomplishments, commitment, and passion of our leaders. After productive lives in our industry and their duties in MNLA, what new passions make them get up in the morning besides tea or coffee?

So, we will offer shorter human interest articles that fit easily into pro|grow|news. Longer stories will be based on interviews and historic material, but committee people will be free to write some of the lighter material. Interviewing and amassing material for a large article is time consuming and takes dedication that is difficult to accomplish at times.

Watch for these stories in upcoming issues. We think you’ll enjoy them.

Philip Boucher, MCH Elysian Garden Design MNLA History Committee Chair

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e encourage MCHs to participate in all aspects of our industry, and MNLA sponsored events are just one of the many ways to earn recertification credits for your MCH. In addition to the programs organized

by MNLA, excellent educational opportunities are often offered by other professional organizations, including ELA, ISA, MCA, CCLA, MCLP, and NOFA. In addition, valuable education can be found through university extension programs, public safety organizations, and horticultural and environmental nonprofits and colleges. If you’re not sure whether the event qualifies for an MCH credit, email MNLA at mnlaoffice@aol.com and we will confirm for you.

As the year winds down, do you still find yourself short?

Take advantage of writing about your favorite plant. One credit is offered to MCHs who submit an editorial style plant profile. It’s a simple photo essay on your favorite landscape addition, and you may even find your name in lights in Pro Grow News.

MCHs can also earn credits through volunteering. The offering of professional skills in the service of charitable community organizations speaks volumes about your intentions and is something we can all be proud of. Please reach out to the MCH board on programs you are involved with; we would love to hear about what you’re doing.

Something new! If plant ID is a passion for you, bring your interest to the Summer Conference and earn a credit. Sign up to partner with a colleague or MCH board member to facilitate the plant ID challenge. We want to keep this event fun, participatory, and educational. We all have something to offer in the way of educating one another. It’s why we are MCHs. Save the date now for these MNLA signature events where you can receive two MCH credits per day.

• • •

February 26–27, 2019. Winter Forum & Annual Meeting plus the Green Industry Job Fair July 25, 2019. Down to Earth Summer Conference & Trade Show at Sylvan Nursery in Westport, Massachusetts August 21, 2019. Plant Geek Day (stay tuned for location.

Kate Merrill, MCH Sylvan Nursery, Inc. MCH Board Member www.mnla.com

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In Memoriam

Paul J. Mahoney, MCH MNLA President 1972-1973

It is with great sadness that we are bringing you news of the passing of two MNLA Past President’s in 2019. I still remember the day each of these icons welcomed me to the MNLA family more than 23 years ago. They were of an era when mentoring was second nature and their passion for the industry infectious. Jim with a twinkle in his eye encouraging you to do the impossible and Paul with his infectious grin and irrepressible humor letting you know you wouldn’t be doing it alone! These two icons of the green industry will be sadly missed.

Paul J. Mahoney, founder of Mahoney’s He will be forever remembered for his Garden Center in Winchester, Massachusetts, kind nature and generosity to his peers, passed away peacefully with his family by his employees, community, and family. side on September 30th, 2018, after a long Paul’s other great passions were history illness. Paul is survived by his beloved wife and travel. He spent a lifetime exploring Doris (Barbaro) of 59 years. Paul was a lovthe world and experiencing new cultures ing father to three sons: Paul Jr. and his wife and their history with his family and Linda of West Tisbury, Peter of Wayland, friends. Paul was a true patriot who loved Thomas and his wife Cindy of Winchester, his country dearly. He was active in many Michael and his wife Nicola of Townsend, and historical and military organizations, two daughters: Susan Covino of Winchester, most notably the Ancient and Honorable and Lauren Danaher of Winchester.

Artillery Company of Massachusetts in Paul was the cherished grandfather of which he was Captain Commanding Emily, Audrey and Julia Covino, Lorianne from 1996-1997. With the Ancients, he Wescott; Patrick Danaher; and Sean, Shannon, was proud to travel the world and see it Brett, Russell, Morgan, Andrew, Molly, through a historical lens to honor those Trevor and Jack Mahoney. He was greatthat came before him. grandfather to Jack and Beckette Wescott.

Throughout Paul’s life, he marveled at Paul touched the lives of everyone he knew the outdoors and immersed himself in the with his generous spirit, warm smile, and natural world. He was in his element in humble nature. the woods of Nova Scotia, at peace boating Born in 1935 to Charles B. and Martha in the waters of Cape Cod, and was most Mahoney (Russell), Paul was the youngest content skiing the mountains of Loon. sibling to Martha Logan of CA and Charles Even after 83 years, Paul was still in awe Mahoney of NH, and was predeceased by of a beautiful sunset or the stars in a clear Marie Donovan, Margaret C. Mahoney, and night sky.

Edward Russell Mahoney.

Paul’s remarkable life was always Paul was a 1953 graduate of Winchester grounded by his strong Catholic faith, his High School and received a BS in economics love for his wife Doris and the time spent from Boston College in 1957. Paul served in with his children and grandchildren. Paul the United States Army after college before a will be remembered for living without prebrief stint as a high school history teacher at tension and embracing everything life had Boston Latin. to offer, always living it to the fullest.

In 1959, Paul established the company that would ultimately become his lifelong passion: Mahoney’s Garden Center. He grew a tiny roadside farm stand on Both Jim and Paul participatCambridge Street in Winchester ed in MNLA’s 100th Anniverselling vegetables into a full-service sary Celebration on December garden center with seven locations 10th, 2010, where they shared throughout Eastern Massachusetts. the industry’s ups and down Working alongside his children and within their presidencies. grandchildren was the joy of his Both groups shared the stage life. Paul’s innovation and success with our moderators Chris in business made him an admired Kennedy, MCH (2011-2012) leader in the industry and a close and Jim Connolly, MCH A look at the 70s at MNLA’s 100th Anniversary Celebration friend to many of his colleagues.

(2012-2013). with Paul J. Mahoney, MCH, and R. Wayne Mezitt, MCH.

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James Kenneth Stewart MNLA President 1981-1982

James Kenneth Stewart passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 31, 2018, while at Baystate Franklin Medical Center. He was born at home on June 30, 1930, in Chicopee, Massachusetts. He was the son of William and Helen (Kurek) Stewart, the youngest of five children.

Jim went to Chicopee Tech, leaving school early to enlist in the Navy. He worked to obtain his GED while in the Navy and went on to graduate first in his class from the Stockbridge School of Agriculture in Amherst. On May 1, 1954, he married Barbara I. Smith. Together, they founded Stewart’s Nursery and Garden Center in 1960, and over the years, they built a very successful business. Jim and Barbara lived most of their 62 years of marriage and raised three daughters at their home on Hillside Road in Montague.

Jim leaves his daughters: Laurel Rollins and her husband Scott of Shelburne Falls; Cary Smith and her husband Bert of Mint Hill, North Carolina; and Penny Stewart and her husband Bernard Walsh of Montague. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Jamieson Bishop of Shelburne Falls; Katherine Bishop Kendrick of Washington, DC; Anna Reid of Northfield; Emilie Scheck of Denver, Pennsylvania; Alyson Switzer and Rachel Smith both of Mint Hill, North Carolina; and step-granddaughter McKenzie Rollins of Los Angeles, California. He also had three great grandchildren: Grayson and Charlotte Bishop of Shelburne Falls, and Layla Mendoza of Denver, Pennsylvania, as well as another great-grandchild due in October. He also leaves his brother, Bill Stewart, of Chicopee. Jim was fond of his niece and loving caregiver, Carol Smith of Gill, many nieces and nephews, and his buddies Herbie Hohengasser of Greenfield and Dick Greene of Gill. His dog Kenny was a constant companion. Jim was predeceased by his wife, Barbara, in May of 2016, his sisters Dolly Beaudreau and Ethel Scott, and his brother Alan Stewart.

Jim was passionate about his career in landscaping and did work all over New England. He was past-president of both the New England Nurserymen’s Association and the Massachusetts Nurserymen’s Association. He was devoted to God and his religion as a member of First Church of Christ Scientist and was a former first reader of the church.

Jim was a longtime member of the YMCA in Greenfield and a big believer in staying active and healthy. Jim enjoyed skiing at almost every ski area in Vermont with his daughters

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and grandson Jamie, as well as his buddies Herbie, Ducky, and Greenie. His cottage at the Cape, where he spent time in his beautiful flower garden, riding his bike on the bike path, and swimming in the bay, gave him much joy. Jim loved to travel, driving his motorhome to various destinations and national parks all across the country and British Columbia.

Jim especially enjoyed cheering for his football team, the New England Patriots.

Jim loved his devoted caregivers, and the family would like to thank them: Carol, Calista, Mary, Noreen, Katie, Julie, Alison, Brenda, and Nancy. They enhanced the quality of his life in recent years through their sense of humor, companionship, and excellent care.

A celebration of Jim’s life was held at the First Congregational Church in Montague Center. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Church of Christ Scientist, 110 Federal Street, Greenfield, MA 01301 or the YMCA, 451 Main Street, Greenfield.

A look at the 80s at MNLA’s 100th Anniversary Celebration with Jim Stewart, Paul Shea, Dick Bemis, and Bob Kennedy

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The Modern Green Roof

By Jill M. Calabro, PhD

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ow do you define a green roof? The first image that comes to my mind is a little, hobbit-like house somewhere in Scandinavia with a goat eating grass on the roof. That may be a bit simplistic; the green roofs of yore have come a long way.

The “urban renaissance,” a term used to describe the comeback of many city centers in the United States, coincides with the revival of green roofs, or maybe the two are intertwined. Either way, the demand for increased green infrastructure and green space continues to grow. And why not — many, many studies have shown the benefits of plants, from human health benefits such as stimulating a relaxation response in humans to environmental benefits such as providing ecosystem services, and more.

Germany leads the charge of the modern green roof revolution, with one estimate stating that 14 percent of flat roofs in that country are in fact green. But how is that defined? As it turns out, it’s more than just a layer of moss or a collection of weeds growing in patches.

A green roof, or living roof, involves the creation and management of vegetation on top of a man-made structure, separate from the ground. For example, a planted area that is part of a USDA building in Washington, DC, qualifies as a green roof despite being only a few feet off the ground. This contrasts with petroleum-based products that cover the typical conventional roof, also called a black roof. A third type, known as a white

roof, is composed of lighter-colored materials to better reflect sunlight.

As one might imagine, green roofs vary greatly in construction and composition, and they are more complex than they appear. Green roof environments tend to be more susceptible to extreme temperatures and drought that lead to high evaporative demands, so a great deal of resources have been dedicated to optimizing substrate composition and depth. In fact, the selected substrate guides the plant material to be used, maintenance needs, and the ultimate success of the planting.

Various sedums dominate the plant palette for green roofs; they’re drought-tolerant and can thrive in shallow substrates. A recent study looking at just how shallow a planting of succulents can tolerate was published in the Horticultural Research Institute’s (HRI) publication, the Journal of Environmental Horticulture (JEH). The study, led by Dr. Rolston St. Hilaire at New Mexico State University, evaluated three depths (3.9, 5.9, and 7.9 inches) to support a planting of hens and chicks, Sempervivum calcareum, in arid-type climates common to New Mexico. Environments on green roofs are extreme in any climate and especially so in arid climates.

The New Mexico State group concluded that shallow depths are acceptable for green roofs established in arid climates, especially with the inclusion of subsurface irrigation.

This enables plant success due to the reduction of evaporative losses, when compared with surface irrigation. To read the full

Photos courtesy of Jill Calabro. Extensive green roofs support populations of sedum or other succulents with their shallow, engineered substrates. Maintenance needs are generally less, while still providing environmental benefits.

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Revolution study, visit the Journal of Environmental Horticulture. http://hrijournal.org/doi/full/10.24266/0738-2898-35.4.146 In 2017, HRI funded a study at Michigan State University, led

by Dr. Bradley Rowe, evaluating different substrate depths and changes to organic matter content over a period of several years.

This study is ongoing and plans to conclude later this year.

Dr. Rowe explains a bit about his project. “In our HRIfunded study at MSU, 17 different herbaceous perennials and grasses were planted on a campus green roof in substrate depths of either 4 or 8 inches. The roofs were irrigated when needed during the first two years, but had to rely on natural rainfall thereafter. Plant diversity decreased over time at both depths. Only seven species were still present after seven years when grown in 8 inches of media, and only three survived at a media depth of 4 inches.”

This study emphasizes the need for long-term studies to avoid making premature conclusions, the importance of substrate depth on soil moisture and plant survival, and that irrigation during drought periods may be necessary if herbaceous perennials and grasses are to be successful on green roofs.

While care must be taken in the design and construction phases, maintenance is key to longevity and presents some unique challenges to landscape managers.

“Visibility of some sites is very high, so maintenance needs can be intense. Many of our green roof contracts require weekly site visits. These are mostly integrated with mixed-use

Photos courtesy of Jill Calabro. Intensive green roofs support a greater variety of plants with their thicker layer of soil. Maintenance needs are greater, and they have greater potential for ecosystem services.

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Photo courtesy of Ruppert Landscape. Who says there’s no excitement in landscape management? Safety is top of mind for this crew prepping for a maintenance job on a green roof.

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Photo courtesy of Jill Calabro.

Skyline view of several green roofs.

buildings of residential, office, and retail spaces, and expectations are high for beautiful, manicured green areas,” explains Chris Bixler, branch manager at Ruppert Landscape.

Weed control can be difficult, since most herbicide labels do not list green roofs as an approved site. Plus, very few herbicides are safe to use as over-the-top, broad-spectrum applications on sedum. Finally, many green roofs collect at least some runoff in cisterns and recycle it as irrigation water. This further restricts herbicide use, as residues in irrigation water could potentially injure the plants.

But the urban environment itself presents the biggest challenge to maintenance. “Accessibility of the sites is the major problem. Getting equipment in and out of the areas where we work is half the battle. We build in time to navigate elevators and transfer equipment using special carts that won’t scuff the floor, for example. Sometimes we even have to go through a resident’s window to do the job, and some roofs require tethering of the crew for safety,” Bixler adds.

Why all the fuss? They are more expensive at installation than a conventional roof and may need to be intensively managed; so why bother? Turns out green roofs can help building managers save some green. One estimate suggests a savings of around $200,000 over a forty-year lifespan of a 2,000-squaremeter roof, mostly in the form of reduced energy costs. Such policy drivers as reducing the urban heat-island effect and storm water impacts are leading cities such as Portland, the District of Columbia, and New York City to employ incentive programs encouraging their installation.

In the summer, cities commonly report daily temperatures above surrounding suburban or rural areas, called the urban heat-island effect. More paved surfaces associated with cities translate to increased absorption of solar radiation that is then re-radiated as heat. Conventional black roofs are part of this problem, as they notoriously absorb significant amounts of energy from sunlight. Green roofs, in comparison, also absorb solar radiation, but use it to evaporate water from the substrate by way of the plants (through roots to the leaves), lowering temperatures in the process. One study at Penn State found that on a day where the air temperature was 90 degrees F, an exposed black plastic surface reached 145 degrees F, while the surface of a sedum planting was only 82 degrees F. https://plantscience.psu.edu/research/centers/green-roof/ research/other-research/air-conditioning.

All those paved surfaces in urban areas also create problems for storm water management. Too much runoff can overwhelm a city’s water treatment facility or sewage system, leading not only to increased costs, but to pollution as well.

Green roofs can help. They capture significantly more rainfall

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during a storm than a conventional roof: 80 percent vs. 24 percent according to a study by Penn State: https://plantscience.psu.edu/research/centers/green-roof/research/stormwater/stormwater-quantity.

Other documented benefits include increased energy savings as the vegetation and media act as an additional insulation layer, extend the lifespans of roof membranes, neutralize acid rain, reduce air pollution as they trap dust and airborne particulate matter, create habitat for wildlife, and provide space for local production of fruits and vegetables in cities.

Green roofs have clearly grown up from being a simple sod roof, but they still have a ways to go. Luckily, researchers continue to find ways to improve them not only for the public’s enjoyment, but also in terms of environmental services provided and ease of maintenance. Who knows — maybe goats will be incorporated into them again, too!

References Clark, C.; P. Adriaens, and F.B. Talbot; 2008. “Green Roof Valuation: A Probabilistic Economic Analysis of Environmental Benefits.” Environmental Science & Technology, 42 (6), 2155-2161.

Forrest, L.; R. Gioannini; D.M. VanLeeuwen; and R. St. Hilaire.

2017. “Shallow Substrates Support the Growth of Contrasting Plant Types Installed in Irrigated, Arid-Climate Green Roofs.” Journal of Environmental Horticulture, 35(4):146-155.

Penn State Center for Green Roof Research. “Air Conditioning.” https://plantscience.psu.edu/research/centers/green-roof/research/ other-research/air-conditioning Penn State Center for Green Roof Research. “Stormwater Quantity.” https://plantscience.psu.edu/research/centers/greenroof/research/stormwater/stormwater-quantity Jill M. Calabro, Ph.D. is science and research programs director at the Horticultural Research Institute, the AmericanHort research and scholarship foundation. The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) has provided more than $7.5 million in funds to research projects covering a broad range of production, environmental, and business issues important to the green industry since 1962. Nearly $11 million is committed to the endowment by individuals, corporations, and associations. For more information about HRI, its grant-funded research, or programming, visit www.hriresearch.org or call 614-884-1155.

www.mnla.com

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Favorite Plants for

By Gaele McCully

W

ith the New Year comes a new slate of MNLA officers ready to serve the needs of our membership.

Professionals in different aspects of the horticultural industry, they all share a love of plant material. When we asked each to identify their favorite plant for winter interest, there were some interesting choices. Those who nominated Burning Bush were sent back to the drawing board (yes, more than one person did, but they shall remain nameless), President Tim Hay of Bigelow Nurseries As you can imagine, collecting information for this article required some friendly reminders. Tim’s response was prefaced with “Forget-Me-Not…HAHAHAHA.” Very clever, Tim! Getting down to serious horticultural business, Tim wrote the following about an unusual member of the witch hazel family: “Disanthus cercidifolius is one of the best shrubs for fall color and one of the few plants that turns a reliably deep red even in partially shaded conditions. It begins to color in early fall with tints of burgundy that are followed by crimson with orange and gold undertones. Disanthus cercidifolius has small, unusual flowers that resemble little burgundy starfish that appear as the foliage drops for the season. Although they are cute, they are rather medicinal in fragrance.”

bright green, crinkled, closely packed foliage that gives it a tropical feel. The leaves are palmate with five to seven lobes.

It has a mature height of only 10-15 feet and can come in multi-stem or single stem. It can handle a good deal of shade without losing its thick canopy and is relatively insect, disease, and deer resistant. Smaller specimens available in nurseries are often unappealing because the branches have not filled out and the plant takes on a stubby appearance. However, once these plants are at specimen size of 6 feet or more, they are truly special. Fall foliage comes in a nice orange/crimson color that adds even more appeal.”

Treasurer/Secretary Chris O’Brien of Howard Garden Designs “Weeping Crab Apple is a favorite in winter because the distinctive and interesting branch structure becomes so apparent when the foliage is absent. The branch structure is further accentuated after snowfall when white snow tops all the dark branches.”

Vice President Peter Mezitt of Weston Nurseries Peter’s favorite plant is Acer palmatum ‘Shishigashira’ or Lion’s Head Maple. “This tree has a lot of good qualities people are looking for within suburban landscapes. It has dense,

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Winter Interest Immediate Past President Jim Stucchi of Stucchi Landscape & Design “My favorite tree for winter interest is River Birch, Betula nigra, and some of its cultivars such as ‘Heritage,’ ‘Little King’ and ‘Summer Cascade’. ‘Little King,’ the compact version of our native River Birch, grows to about 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide, making it perfect for smaller gardens. The exfoliating bark features patches of cream and apricot that peel heavily, revealing hues of salmon and brown that are very attractive against a snowy background. The dense outer canopy is a perfect place for birds to nest, and the copious catkins supply food to a wide array of feathered visitors, bringing even more interest to the tree. These particular varieties of River Birch are also resistant to the Bronze Birch Borer, which helps when designing for sustainable practices.”

Board of Directors Jean Dooley of Mahoney’s Garden Centers “Can I say that my favorite winter interest plant is the Palmetto Palm because when I see them, there are nice beaches, warm weather, and no snow???” Nice try, Jean. When pressed, Jean suggested Hydrangea petiolaris, Cornus ‘Midwinter Fire’, Ilex meserveae, or Ilex pedunculosa, the Longstalk Holly.

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Board of Directors Kerry Preston of Wisteria & Rose “My favorite plant for winter interest (actually one of my all-time, year-round favorites) is the Hinoki Cypress, Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Gracilis’. The bark has a nice reddish tone to it, and the foliage stays green through the tough, cold winter months. When it starts to shed older needles, it just needs a vigorous brushing and most of the dead pieces fall away. If it does get squashed by heavy winter snow, selective pruning works wonders, and it can also be turned into a topiary or a shrub with an interesting architectural look.”

Board of Directors Deb Trickett of The Captured Garden “One of my favorites is Acer griseum, the Paperbark Maple. I think it may be even more beautiful in the winter when it has no leaves to distract from its beautiful peeling bark. I planted one where the low-setting winter sun perfectly illuminates and backlights the beautiful cinnamon-colored bark. It’s a beautiful tree, and once we had a new place with enough land, it was my first birthday present!”

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Board of Directors Dave Vetelino of Vetelino Landscape Dave’s favorite plant is Picea omorika, the Serbian Spruce. He is drawn to its alluring multi-seasonal aesthetic and its usefulness in the landscape. In particular, he likes its blue/ green color contrast in the snow and its gently weeping form. It looks great all year (and even better in the winter), he says, and that it makes an excellent privacy screen.

Board of Directors Steve Charette of Farm Family Insurance Steve’s favorite is Ilex meserveae. “The combination of evergreen foliage and red berries brightens up the winter and reminds me of Christmas for much longer than just the holiday week.” Known as blue hollies for their glossy blue-green leaves, they grow 6–10 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide, depending on the variety. Female varieties such as ‘Blue Maid’ require a male pollinator, such as ‘Blue Prince’.

Executive Director Rena Sumner of RMS Associates Rena’s favorite plant was actually Hosta. However, after reminding her that we are looking for “winter interest,” she scanned her garden photos for inspiration and selected Pieris japonica (Andromeda), particularly those with red flower buds or foliage. This broadleaf evergreen shrub provides year-round interest. In early spring, it features pendulous clusters of flowers that resemble lily-of-the-valley. Newly emerging foliage in varieties such as ‘Mountain Fire’, ‘Scarlett O’Hara’ and ‘Red Mill’ offers striking red color.

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Government Relations Director Jason Wentworth of Peacefield Strategies “Betula lenta, also known as Sweet Birch or Black Birch, is one of my favorite winter interest plants. It’s always struck me as particularly lovely, especially with a snowy backdrop, and a stark reminder that life goes on even in the midst of the cruelest winter. However, my fondness for black birch truly comes from more personal, tactile experiences.

As a child, I would go on hikes with my father and older

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brother, and we would often find twigs of the black birch to chew.

I loved the distinct wintergreen scent and unique flavor, and a few twigs in the mouth would keep me walking for miles. I’m sure my father liked it because it kept me from asking, “Are we there yet?” every five minutes. The sight and taste of Black Birch is evocative of so many happy memories of enjoying the outdoors with my family in my youth, and now I’m blessed to share that appreciation with my own children.”

Gaele McCully, MCH MCLP Mahoney’s Garden Center MNLA Magazine Committee Chair Mark your calendar to meet your Board of Directors at MNLA’s Annual Meeting Luncheon on February 27, 2019.

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Sharpest Tool in the Shed How I Avoided Career-Ending Back Surgery through Nutrition

by Trevor L. Smith, MCH

“I

know that walk,” joked an industry friend as I stiffly jumped down from my truck and walked toward him. I had just spent forty-five minutes in an air-conditioned truck, and all my joints had seized up. After a dozen strides, the oil was flowing again and I was back to “normal.”

Truth is, so many of us have “that walk,” especially those on what I call the back forty. It’s a walk that reflects years of lifting, twisting, and pushing through sore muscles and injury. While the rest of the nation is suffering back and joint injuries from lack of use and sitting too long, our aliments are more akin to the injuries of our grandparents and great-grandparents. Before he passed, my grandfather was crooked from years of physically hard work; he walked with a limp and had a grip like a steel trap.

I assumed that was going to be me: leather-necked, scarred, and crooked with strength that defied my age. I was okay with this — a living example of a life well lived with lines on my face and hands that tell my story. I was okay with this at ninety-six like my grandfather, but not at forty-one, not as all my hard work developing a successful business was starting to pay off, not before I got to enjoy all that life has to offer between forty and ninety. This was almost the case when my body betrayed me about two years ago.

Before two years ago, I had sore days — like I imagine we all do — when my back was screaming after a long day or when I woke up stiff and sore. Sometimes, this pain lasted a day, sometimes a week, but it always passed. That all changed in March 2016. I experienced a sciatic episode that left me flat out for three days and resulted in chronic pain and a pronounced limp due to numbness in my left leg and foot.

Eventually, I was told I have herniated discs and the inflammation and pressure on my spine caused the sciatic episode as well as the numbness in my leg. I did rehab, then injections, and was finally told I needed surgery. I went around and around with doctors and insurance all winter. In April 2017, with the season off and running, there was no time for games.

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I had to do something, and I had to do it now.

I decided to take my health into my own hands and then dove straight into the season. By June, my pain was highly diminished, though my leg was still numb. By August, my pain was no worse than it had been a few years before and feeling had significantly returned to my leg. Today, my limp and the pain are gone, and full feeling is nearly restored in my leg and foot.

I know I am not the only one suffering from chronic pain due to years of hard work and personal neglect. I also know I am not a doctor or nutritionist, nor am I a total health-food and diet fanatic. I now actively study the gut microbiome and continue to learn how to keep myself from ending up in pain like that again... and that’s exactly why I think you should hear me out.

I know what jobs in our profession entail and the challenges people in our profession face.

All my doctors asked if I used proper lifting posture. Yeah, I do, but I don’t lift an evenly balanced object up and then put it back down. I lift an unevenly balanced boulder, then carry it over uneven surfaces down into a pond, or I drag a twelve-foot tree in a ball cart across a lawn. I know that sometimes lunch is a sub, a sleeve of cookies or crackers, or fast food eaten between jobsites. Finally, I know that cuts, bruises, sore muscles, and pain are things our profession is very used to, and we are very adept at pushing through to get the job done.

So, let me share with you what I did, what supplements, recipes, exercises, and sources I have used, and hopefully, you too can relieve your pain and reap many more years in our wonderful profession.

SUPPLEMENTS Three common threads run through these supplements. First, they all address joint, bone, and muscle health, for obvious reasons. Second, they address skin health. We work in the sun much of the year and are exposed to all kinds of outdoor toxins; we also suffer many cuts and scratches. Since the skin is the largest organ on our body, we should care for it. Third, I have learned that

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digestion and gut are connected to every ailment from colds and chronic pain to asthma and Alzheimer’s. When our digestion isn’t right, our immune response is compromised, leading to illness, severe allergies, and inflammation throughout the body.

Collagen Collagen supports skin, joint, and digestive health. There are many types of collagen (Type I, II, III, V, X). It is best to make sure the supplement you choose is from organic sources and includes as many types as possible Shilajit Shilajit supports the nourishment and regeneration of organ tissue and the rapid regeneration of bone tissue and structural tissue. It also boosts energy and brain health, balances blood sugar, and supports digestive health, emotional balance, and improved stress response. It contains more than 80 micronutrients and minerals. Shilajit comes in powder and resin, and research has shown me that the resin is the more potent and purer of the two.

Bone Broth

Bone broth supports healthy joints, the immune system, digestion, skin, strong bones, and the body’s uptake of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Bone broth can be made at home or purchased as a broth or a powder. If you choose to purchase, be sure the bones are organic. Herbicides like glyphosate build up in cartilage, and you could wind up with a cup of poison. Be aware of added ingredients. Since bone broth has become popular, many companies are putting out stock with “natural flavors” and a lot of salt. Be sure to buy broth with simple, recognizable ingredients.

Ashwaganda

Ashwaganda regulates the immune system, reduces anxiety, and improves the stress response.

Magnesium

Magnesium supports energy, digestion, sleep, and heart and bone health. It alleviates muscle aches and spasms.

Turmeric

Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that relieves pain, boosts brain and liver function, supports digestion, regulates blood pressure, and helps prevent cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s. It is important to note that curcumin — the beneficial chemical in turmeric — needs to be ingested with a fat such as coconut oil or a pepper like black or cayenne. Without one or both of these to activate it, curcumin just passes through your system.

Zinc

Zinc is an antioxidant that regulates blood sugar and supports heart health, nutrient absorption, liver health, and muscle repair.

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Probiotics

Probiotics benefit immune system, digestion, energy, skin, and overall health.

Cost

“Pay the farmer now, or pay the doctor later.” This goes for food as well as supplements. If you are not going to buy good quality, then don’t bother. While the cost of quality supplements can be perceived as expensive, it is worth breaking out the cost per serving. For example, a $41 bottle with 30 servings breaks down to $1.36 per serving. That comes to about $10 per day for the entire routine detailed above. I’m sure you spend that or more on your current routine. The Shilajit I use is $89 per bottle, but a bottle is 300 servings, and I have noticed the difference, so it’s worth it to me.

Additional Thoughts It is important to remember these are natural products. The desired result takes a little longer than traditional, instant medicine. It is important to give all of these a month before really noticing effects, although you might notice some benefits after two weeks. It is also important to note that curcumin — the beneficial chemical in turmeric — needs to be ingested with a fat such as coconut oil or a pepper like black or cayenne. Without one or both of these to activate it, curcumin just passes through your system.

FOOD I shouldn’t have to explain the importance of food and the role it plays, especially when you have a physical job, but I will share my thoughts and how I use food throughout the work day. We have a no-fast-food policy at Land Escapes and encourage our crew to bring all their own food and snacks.

We implemented this policy years ago, for two reasons: One, it saves time if the crew eats on site rather than leaving for lunch, which can result in more than an hour lunch break depending on where you are. Second, we eliminate the fastfood hangover that leaves the crew foggy, sluggish, and unproductive for the remainder of the afternoon.

That is where it ends, though. I don’t tell the crew what to bring, and I don’t preach. Everybody has their own relationship with food (e.g., big breakfast, long lunch, lots of small meals, and intermittent fasting). Here’s my approach. In the morning, I take all my supplements: Collagen in my coffee, bone broth tea, and the rest listed above. I do not like to take a lunch break because I lose momentum, but I do need to keep my blood sugar and energy up over a ten-hour day, so I make my own crackers and energy bars every Sunday. I bring a few of each and eat them throughout the day along with about a gallon of water and a water bottle of Matcha Tea that I drink around 1:00, just before the afternoon slump. Matcha Tea is a powdered green tea that you mix in whatever you drink. I like it because it gives me what I call a slow-burn caffeine buzz.

I don’t get that rush and drop like I do with coffee or energy drinks. With Matcha, I find I am able to keep going. I used www.mnla.com

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to have a bad energy-drink habit until I realized that the majority of ingredients in the drinks promote inflammation.

At night, I eat a normal dinner with my family, though I try to cut out refined sugar and flour as much as possible. I also have made a stronger effort to eat completely organic.

EXERCISE People always say to me, “With your job, I guess you don’t need the gym.” This is only half true. We use many of our major muscle groups every day, but we neglect two areas: our core and our psoas or hip flexor muscles. I had always known about my core, but until my injury, I never thought about my psoas. I do not go to the gym during the season. Instead, I perform a few of these exercises and stretches for 5–10 minutes in the morning. In the offseason, I add exercises to include upper body. At a minimum, I do the core portion, and I don’t usually exceed twenty minutes unless I feel really ambitious. I have found a goal of five minutes is totally achievable and everything else is bonus.

Core Your core involves almost all muscle groups except your arm and legs. These combined muscles are responsible for the body’s stabilization, force, and weight transfer. A strong core helps prevent injury, protects your inner organs and nervous system, protects the back, and produces better posture.

Hip Flexors/Psoas Hip flexors/psoas are muscles deep in your body that act as tie-downs between your spine and hips/legs. It is highly important to stretch these muscles. When these muscles are working, they help transfer weight from the trunk to the legs and keep you stabilized.

When they are neglected for too long, they shorten, reducing flexibility.

To compensate for this loss of stabilization, our other muscle groups try to compensate, and we begin to experience pain in our back and knees over time.

FINAL THOUGHTS “Between stimulus and response lies our greatest power: The freedom to choose.”

-S. Covey I love what I do, and I hope to enrich our planet and the lives of others for years to come. There is a time and place for

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medicine, but I personally believe we give too much of our control over to Big Pharma and Big Ag. Everything in nature is about balance; plants get sick or are attacked by pests not because they are healthy, but because they are stressed or lacking nutrients. A pond overrun with algae is out of balance. It is the same with human health; disease occurs when our lives or bodies are out of balance.

Our bodies have evolved over hundreds of thousands of years; they know what they need and they tell us. We just have forgotten how to listen. For some reason, we put the responsibility of our well-being in the hands of corporations whose goal, lest we forget, is to make money. Doctors dole out prescriptions without ever getting to the root cause of an illness, and we let bright packages tell us what is healthy. Let me give you an example. Heartburn is our body’s way of saying something we ate does not agree with us. At any other period in time, we would have listened to our bodies and avoided that food. Today, we take medicine to silence our body’s warning signs so we can keep eating that food. Think of the TV ads you see. How many are to cure disease? None I can think of; they are all for covering symptoms. Study after study show that the extreme processing of food is responsible for the spike in diabetes and gastrointestinal disease as well as the rise of gluten sensitivity, but I have plenty of friends who drink a shake and make their purchases based on what a brightly colored box says. No more soap box. Basically, I just want you to take back your health and recognize that — just like a landscape — your body is an ecosystem. If it is out of balance, bad things begin to happen. By realizing this, I became pain free with a lot more energy and a clearer head, and I would like you to join me.

RESOURCES

Books I have read over a dozen books, but here are the three I recommend that simply and directly give you the information you need. “Eat Dirt” by Dr. Axe will give the best overview and quick DIY. If you need a little more structure or have some serious issues, I recommend “Always Hungry” by Dr. David Ludwig. “The Dorito Effect” by Mark Schatzker is a fun read with a behind-the-scenes look at how the food industry keeps us hooked and why you can’t eat just one.

Supplements Here is a list of what I use: Collagen: Dr. Axe Multi Collagen Shilajit: Purblack or Lotus Blooming Bone Broth: Ancient Nutrition Organic w/Turmeric Turmeric: Organic Ashwaganda: Gaia Magnesium Glycinate: Solgar Zinc Picolinate: Solgar Probiotics: Renew Life Ultimate Flora 90 Billion or Axe Nutrition SBO Probiotic Trevor L. Smith, MCH, AOLCP, LEED GA, is the lead designer at Land Escapes Design Studio, which specializes in eco-technologies including sustainable design, urban farming, rainwater harvesting, storm water management, porous/permeable pavements, and green roof and wall systems. www.mnla.com

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YARD WASTE FACT SHEET a form provided by the department. The owner/operator should complete the notification form, file it with DEP and the local Board of Health 30 days prior to commencing activities, and follow the guidelines outlined in the leaf and yard waste composting guidance document. See the MassDEP links at the end of this fact sheet for more information.

YARD WASTE MANAGEMENT IN MASSACHUSETTS

T

he fall season brings beautiful colors associated with fall foliage, fallen leaves on the ground, fall garden clean-up, and the onset of yard waste removal. The focus of most gardeners and landscapers shifts to yard waste removal and management. Yard waste includes leaves, grass, non-woody organic garden waste, and brush (landscape trimmings). Brush includes sticks, twigs, and branches that are less than 4 inches in diameter. Yard waste does not include sod, soil, sand, gravel, or rocks.

Managing Yard Waste Here are several options to help manage yard waste.

Regulations for Yard Waste Disposal Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (Mass DEP) regulations 310 CMR 19.017 banned landfill, transfer, or combustion facilities from accepting yard waste except for recycling or composting. The only exception to this ban is for material that is contaminated and not acceptable for recycling or composting. For this kind of material, with proper prior notification and approval, the DEP will provide a temporary permit to allow the facility to dispose of the contaminated material provided that the person who contaminated the material takes action to prevent the recurrence of the conditions that caused the contamination.

The DEP 310 CMR 16.03c regulations allow residential composting of organic material generated at the residence. The regulations also allow small composting operations not at a residence provided that less than 20 cubic yards or less than 10 tons of organic materials are generated per week and the owner/operator notifies DEP and the local Board of Health in writing using

Recycling Grass Clippings into Turf Canopy Grass clippings can contribute large amounts of material to yard waste. To reduce the amount of yard waste, grass clippings can be returned into the turf. Returned grass clippings do not contribute to increased thatch formation and have the added benefit of returning nutrients to the system. Recycled clippings break down quickly and do not accumulate. To recycle grass clippings into the turf, use mulching mowers or rotary mowers that cut the clippings into small, fine pieces, allowing them to fall down into the turf canopy more easily and to decompose more quickly. For clippings to break down quickly, the lawn should be mowed frequently so that large amounts of leaf residue do not remain on the surface of the turf. Weekly mowing may not be frequent enough, especially during the period when grass is growing rapidly. Always mow when the lawn is dry and at a proper frequency to prevent unsightly clumping of the clippings.

Onsite Composting Mass DEP promotes residential and commercial composting to increase the amount of organic material diverted from disposal

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statewide. Homeowners can compost onsite materials generated at the residence. Landscapers can operate a small composting facility not at a residence as permitted by DEP regulations as noted above.

Composting, a controlled process of breaking down organic material, is a beneficial and inexpensive way of handling yard waste. During the composting process, microorganisms feed on organic material and reduce the bulky material into a beneficial material that contains nutrients and humus. Adding compost to the soil improves the soil structure and adds nutrients. Before adding compost to the soil, get it analyzed for total nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P2O5), and potassium (K2O) content.

Organic material such as yard waste contains varying amounts of carbon and nitrogen. The micro-organisms involved in the composting process require oxygen and moisture as well as carbon and nitrogen in adequate proportions. The ideal carbon to nitrogen (C:N) ratio is 30:1 (30 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen by weight). Ratios higher than 30:1 slow down the rate of decomposition and ratios lower than 25:1 create anaerobic conditions (lack of oxygen) that can cause odor problems because excess nitrogen may be given off as ammonia gas. The C:N ratio of brown material such as leaves ranges between 40:1 and 80:1. Grass and other green material have a C:N ration of about 19:1. By mixing green material with brown material, the C:N ratio is lowered to about 30:1. Use approximately three parts brown material to one part green material to optimize the composting process. When green materials are scarce, add manure, cottonseed meal, or blood meal as organic sources of nitrogen. You can also add a fertilizer high

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in nitrogen to supply nitrogen nutrition to the microbes. Avoid composting diseased plant material; the composting process may not kill some disease pathogens.

The composting process should be managed so that there is optimal moisture content of 40 percent to 60 percent by weight.

This may be achieved by making sure that leaves are damp before adding them into the compost pile. If the compost pile is too dry, turning during periods of precipitation will help to provide the needed moisture. Moisture can also be added during turning if there is no precipitation. Turning to exchange the material at the center with that outside helps to provide oxygen needed for aerobic decomposition.

Compost from the onsite compost pile can be used as a soil amendment or as landscape mulch. Compost can also be used for topdressing when making repairs, over-seeding, or patching turf.

Adding compost as a soil amendment in planting beds improves the soil structure and adds organic matter, beneficial organisms, and plant nutrients. Spread an even 1- to 2-inch layer of compost on the beds and then incorporate it into the top 6–8 inches of soil manually or mechanically with a rototiller until the compost is uniformly mixed, taking care not to over-till the soil. Compost applied as mulch will function as mulch and also provide plant nutrients. When used as mulch, compost may not control weeds, especially in windy areas where weed seeds can blow onto compost and grow. Compost should be analyzed for available N, P2O5, and K2O content before applying as a soil amendment or mulch. Before applying compost as mulch, use a rake or shovel to break up the layer of last year’s mulch to ensure a crust has not

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formed before applying new mulch. Apply compost and spread it in an even 1—3- inch layer on beds or around trees and shrubs.

Onsite Shredding and Leaf Mulching • Shredding. A shredder can be used to turn brush into mulch.

Shredded brush mulch can be used in planting beds and on bare areas on the landscape to control weeds, conserve moisture, moderate soil temperature, and reduce dust and mud problems. Shredded brush mulch contains pieces of varying sizes and is not ideal as decorative mulch. For decorative mulch, use other mulches such as bark mulch. To use shredded brush mulch, spread an even 3- to 4-inch layer. Shredded brush can be used fresh-chipped and will age to a nice, natural silvery color. It can also be piled and allowed to age before use.

• Leaf mulching. When only a moderate amount of leaves are on the ground, a mower can be used to mulch them into the turf.

Research at Purdue University demonstrated that mulching maple leaves into the turf does not have any detrimental effect on the soil or turf and usually results in improvement of soil structure. The research also showed that mulching maple leaves does not increase thatch and disease on turf and has no effect on soil pH and nutrient availability. Research at Michigan State University suggests that leaf mulching can also reduce dandelion population on turf. The research showed that mulched red and sugar maple leaves initially reduced dandelion populations on very-low-maintenance and moderately maintained (fertilized and properly mown but not irrigated) lawns under some conditions. The mulched leaves provided some pre-emergence

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dandelion control in the first year, but did not provide any postemergence control or sustained effects once dandelions had become established. For best results, leaves should be mowed when dry. A mulching mower works best because it has a special deck and blade design for mulching grass clippings. Mulching mowers are designed to cut, suspend, and recut vegetative material until it is finely divided. A rotary mower that pulverizes the leaves well can be used with good results. A regular mower with a covering over the discharge can also be used for mulching leaves into the turf. For best results, sharpen the mower blades and make as many as 3–4 passes over the area to finely grind the leaves. Mow leaves regularly and do not allow them to lie on the turf for more than 3–4 days before mowing. The pulverized leaves should settle into the turf within 1–2 days, especially if the leaf mulching is followed by rain. Since the research does not provide answers to all possible questions on leaf mulching, such as the effects of leaves from different tree species, the maturity or condition of the turf, or the effects of other site conditions, landscape professionals should use their own judgement or try the practice on a small area before embarking on full scale leaf mulching.

Offsite Recycling Most municipalities in Massachusetts have developed recycling facilities to collect yard waste. The solid waste divisions of some of these municipalities provide curbside collection of yard waste during spring and fall for residents. Residents should check with their local authority for particulars of how this is handled in their own community. The yard waste is typically composted and used as a soil amendment for city use and may also be offered to residents.

Many municipalities do not accept yard waste from landscapers or commercial sources, although some do accept yard waste from landscapers after they have purchased a commercial disposal sticker from the town. Landscapers should check with their town to find out if the town’s recycling center accepts yard waste from commercial sources. If the town recycling center does not accept yard waste from commercial sources, check the yellow pages or other business listings for private companies that provide legal disposal of yard waste at reasonable prices. These companies compost the yard waste and offer it at a price to landscapers and homeowners.

Disposing of Invasive Plants Invasive plants can be removed by hand-pulling or by mechanical removal. Plants must be removed with the entire root system because new plants may sprout from root segments. There are no designated areas in the state for disposal of invasive plants. Some municipalities have DEP permits to accept invasive plants at their recycling site for proper disposal. Invasive plants can be disposed of by composting, but it is important to ensure that every part of the plant material is completely dead before adding it into the compost pile. Put all parts of the plant including roots into black plastic bags and place the bags in a hot, well-lit area and wait for about a week until the plants are completely brown and dead. Do not compost invasive plants with seeds because some of them are able to survive the composting process. The other options for disposal of invasive plants are deep burial or burning if possible. In both cases, DEP permitting is required. Contact DEP for permitting information.

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Farm Family Insurance ........................21

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