FNGLA Membership: Invaluable Connections, Great Resources

F N G L A ’ S M O N T H L Y P U B L I C A T I O N : D I G I T A L M O N T H L Y I S S U E L O C A T E D A T H T T P : / / G R E E N L I N E . F N G L A . O R G

April 2014 | Volume 35, Issue 4

FNGLA pushes a no-apologies, pro-business, pro-agriculture, pro-environment and pro-jobs agenda. Not to toot FNGLA’s horn too loudly, yet without FNGLA, chances are our industry would be politically weak and your business would be an easy target for repeated bullying.

Yet, it’s human nature to ask, “Yeah, but where’s the value?” One of the many answers is the portfolio of exclusive value-added FNGLA member business discounts and services. Can your bottom-line be helped by discounts in the credit card processing fees you pay? How about discounts to process your payroll? Can your business use a creative marketing shot-in-the-arm? What about group life insurance with no medical exams?

And, don’t forget about FNGLA’s employment law hotline where you can gain quick advice on wage-hour, OSHA, I-9 issues and sticky workers’ compensation situations. Each of these exclusive FNGLA member benefits can make a welcome, positive impact on your business bottom-line. And, the potential savings from using any one of them may end up paying for your membership dues…and then some.

Or, how about this? FNGLA has now enrolled each of our Florida-based grower, landscape and garden center members in the Fresh from Florida campaign. This partnership is designed to drive consumer awareness and promote the high quality tropical foliage, landscape plants and trees which FNGLA members produce, sell and install.

And, we haven’t even touched on the real business value of FNGLA’s two top-rated marketing venues – The Landscape Show and TPIE -- in which you can market and shop for the newest plants, products and services. Or, how about the business value of building your network and relationships offered by FNGLA’s Chapters throughout our great state.

Or, what’s the value to your business of learning cutting-edge knowledge and emerging trends offered by FNGLA’s premier educational events? How about the value of earning any of FNGLA’s five certifications to mold your customers’ perceptions of your company’s professionalism?

There is a big team of members, leaders and staff standing shoulder-to-shoulder to develop for your business a value-laden menu of FNGLA programs, benefits and services. FNGLA aims high. We try to be authentic. We deliver what FNGLA promises... real business value for your membership.

It’s time to renew your FNGLA membership. Dues renewal forms were mailed to you or look for your online renewal coming soon. Be sure to renew today. This is an election year, so please add something extra for the FNGLA-PAC – a critical tool in FNGLA’s advocacy and government affairs toolbox. Is FNGLA a solid business decision? You bet it is!

2

Mike MarshallFNGLA 2013-2014 PresidentPRESIDENT’S LETTER

Spring is here and there is a lot to be excited about within Florida’s nursery and landscape industry. The word on the street is this spring is starting off strong for many suppliers and there is increased demand for our products and services. In the woody segment, there appears to be an easing of years of oversupply which will lead

to sustainable business models once again. I am thankful for that and proud to be part of an organization that does an incredible job of working alongside and supporting our industry on so many fronts. FNGLA is advocacy in the state capitol; partnerships that promote and highlight the products and services we offer; cutting edge professional education programs designed with our members in mind; and, much more. There are two stellar FNGLA programs happening this spring with a lot to offer.

First, you should know about an educational event like no other -- The Floriculture Field Days & Performance Trials -- happening on May 14 & 15. FNGLA, Disney’s Horticulture team, Harry P. Leu Gardens and UF/IFAS Extension have teamed up to showcase the newest flowering plant releases and the greatest innovations in the floriculture industry. Trial beds of annuals, perennials and vegetative crops are being planted right now to give ample time for new plant varieties to mature. And by May 14 & 15, beds will be mature and ready for you to tour. Plan now to attend and see firsthand how new varieties perform in Florida’s tough growing conditions. You will also hear from the floriculture industry’s leading professionals and tour the 2014 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival displays with Disney Horticulture. General session speakers will offer their valuable insights into business successes, future trends, and the relevance of creativity and innovation in our industry. There are breakout sessions for the greenhouse grower, landscape professional and retailer. Take a look at the schedule, and I am sure you’ll decide you need to be there for this exceptional program -- right in our backyard!

Speaking of backyard, FNGLA is once again serving as the host organization for the children’s garden-themed area in Epcot during the 2014 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. The “Backyard Play” themed display, on the international showcase loop between France and Morocco, draws in gardening enthusiasts of all ages. It kicked off on March 5 and will delight and inspire an audience estimated to be more than 2 million consumers before it wraps up on May 18. What an incredible opportunity to put Florida-grown plants and landscape professionals front and center with Florida consumers and with thousands of out of state visitors.

FNGLA’s festival partnership with The 2014 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival offers us the unique opportunity to show people in a creative and tangible way how living and working with plants simply makes life better! I have served as a host for the FNGLA Garden several times over the years and it is great to talk with Disney guests and to see people enthusiastic about what they can do at home with beautiful and sustainable ideas.

Enjoy this special time of year when everything is green and growing.

Mike MarshallMarshall Tree Farm (Morriston)Michael@MarshallTrees.com

Spring Brings Excitement to the Industry

3

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days Bring Big Impact to Participants: May 14 & 15Started four years ago, FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days combines a performance trial experience with top-notch educational sessions from many of the Floriculture Industry’s finest speakers. Held May 14 & 15 in Orlando and in conjunction with the Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival, the conference allows participants to see leading breeders’ new varieties and how they perform in Florida’s tough growing conditions. Breeder representatives will be on-hand to provide individualized information on their plants & products. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival with members of Disney’s horticulture team and see all three perfomance trial sites: Epcot, Harry P. Leu Gardens and UF-IFAS Orange County Extension Service.

With its emphasis on landscape and color trends, the event attracts growers, landscape professionals and garden center retailers who find new and innovative concepts to take back to their businesses. See the event itinerary at: http://www.fngla.org/events/floriculture-field-day/schedule.aspx. FNGLA members can register by the May 2 best pricing deadline for $175.

Sponsoring this event is a great way to reach a key market of industry professionals dedicated to improving and excelling in their job performance. Most sponsorships include a tabletop during the conference. The sooner you commit to sponsoring, the more exposure you’ll get! Access sponsorship details: http://www.fngla.org/events/floriculture-field-day/Sponsorship.aspx

Thank you to the 2014 conference sponsors:

2014 BreederParticipants:

4

Garden Volunteer Opportunities for 2014: FNGLA’s Partnership at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

The 2014 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is another exceptional event and opportunity for FNGLA to showcase our industry and Florida gardening to over 2 million expected consumers. 2014 marks FNGLA’s 16th year of participation. For 2014, FNGLA continues the volunteer opportunities for members and FNGLA Certified Professionals.

BACKYARD PLAY GARDENAs an official festival partner, FNGLA is the host organization to the returning theme of children’s gardening focused on family gardening fun. The garden area’s theme, Backyard Play, has been carried over from last year’s garden.

With its “backyard look and feel,” the area incorporates a variety of fun gardening elements easily recreated by virtually any home gardener. Many areas are returning from last year’s garden such as a green roof dog house, a topiary pet yard, a soup garden, pizza garden, pie garden, a planted bamboo tunnel, and, a variety of garden crafts such as stepping stones and bird baths. An “exercise” area will be featured across from the children’s play structure.

FNGLA is seeking members and FNGLA certified professionals to serve in pairs as garden hosts each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the festival: now - May 18, 2014. Volunteers can pick from two different 3-hour shifts: noon to 3:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

FNGLA’S TRIAL GARDEN

The setting for FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days Performance Trial Garden features breeder selections of plants expected to be released for use in Florida’s climate. For the public, this is a sneak peak opportunity.

FNGLA is seeking members and FNGLA certified professionals to serve as trial garden hosts each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday: April 17 - May 18, 2013. There is one shift for the trials: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The trials are located on the promenade at the International Gateway, just outside the resort entrance to Epcot.

While we are able to allow garden-qualified friends and spouses to serve as FNGLA volunteers for both areas, you must be able to fulfill the host duties which include answering garden-specific questions. We cannot allow children to participate. All FNGLA volunteers gain entrance to the park for the day of their commitment and are free to enjoy Epcot and the festival before and after their volunteer time. FNGLA Certified Professionals also receive 2 CEUs for their volunteer service. Don’t delay in coordinating your preferred time slots as volunteers are accepted for Opening Day and each extended weekend on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact FNGLA at adibella@fngla.org to sign-up as a garden volunteer!

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

5

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There will be plenty of fascinating and fun “to do’s” at FNGLA’s upcoming Convention. Taking place June 20-21 at the Marriott Sawgrass Resort and Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, the list of optional activities is eye-catching and diverse.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy a game of golf, beach time at the hotel’s private Cabana Club, a visit to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens or a trip to historic St. Augustine. The hotel offers pools, extensive spa services (FNGLA attendees receive 15% discount on spa services), two fitness centers, walking and riding trails, as well as darts and pool in Alice and Pete’s Pub.

The Welcome Reception takes place on Friday, June 20 at the 100th Hole Deck, overlooking the lake and wooded vistas of resort. Here’s where you’ll catch up with FNGLA friends and meet new colleagues. We’ll include some interactive fun to help you make more connections during this event.

Saturday morning, June 21 offers more time for networking during the Annual Meeting continental breakfast, followed by the informative and celebratory FNGLA Annual Meeting. This is the time to learn the state- of-the-industry, take in FNGLA’s Year in Review and honor FNGLA’s Industry Award Winners.

A special behind-the-scenes tour of the TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse and grounds, including the 17th hole, will be available to FNGLA convention registrants on Saturday afternoon. FNGLA member, Todd Fonda, landscape manager of TPC, has offered to provide a complimentary tour of the facility, complete with storytellers to provide the history of the renowned TPC headquarters and championship golf course. Lunch will be provided compliments of John Deere Landscapes. Attendance is limited to 50 people.

Serving as the closing event for FNGLA’s Convention, the President’s Gala provides a festive setting for attendees to honor FNGLA’s Past Presidents, be inspired by current leaders and see FNGLA President Mike Marshall of Marshall Tree Farm pass the FNGLA Big Shoes to incoming president Sandy Stein of The Jungle Nursery. The fun dancing then begins!

FNGLA Frontrunner Chapter members are serving as hosts of this year’s convention, along with assistance from members of the FNGLA Northeast Chapter. Bonnie Marshall, Marshall Tree Farm, is convention chairperson, with Ed Bravo, Big Trees Plantation, serving as hospitality suite and golf coordinator. The Frontrunners hospitality suite will be open each convention evening.

Convention online registration is open. Register before June 6 for the lowest convention pricing at: https://www.fngla.org/events/annual-convention/registration.aspx

The Marriott Sawgrass Resort and Spa is offering FNGLA convention participants a rate of only $115 per night. To assure availability and receive the special FNGLA rate, you must make reservations prior to May 19, 2014. Go to: http://www.fngla.org/events/annual-convention/location.aspx.

Options Abound at FNGLA’s Convention: June 20 & 21!

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS

FNGLA Announces the 2014 Industry Award Winners!

FNGLA Industry Award winners are selected among a pool of nominations received from FNGLA members-at-large. The FNGLA Industry Awards Committee is comprised of the eight most recent recipients of the Wendell E. Butler Award.

The awards will be presented to their recipients during the FNGLA Annual Meeting on Saturday morning, June 21. The Annual Meeting will take place as part of FNGLA’s Convention at the Marriott Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach. The FNGLA Annual Meeting is open to all FNGLA members and does not require registration. For those who wish to sign up for the other events of the FNGLA Convention, online registration is now open at: https://www.fngla.org/events/annual-convention/registration.aspx

FNGLA Friend of the Industry | Ananth Prasad, P.E., Secretary | Florida Department of Transportation

During the Great Recession, use of Florida’s limited fiscal resources for highway beautification was hotly debated. Knowing its natural and scenic beauty attracts people to spend more time and more money in Florida, Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Ananth Prasad made a commitment to improve design, construction, and maintenance of Florida’s most visible and visited landscape -- the state highway system.

Seeing the State’s investment in highway beautification was not always producing consistent results, Secretary Prasad made it everyone’s business to position Florida’s highways as the most beautiful in the nation. By way of his strong and steady leadership, the “Business of Beautification” became central in FDOT’s daily operations.

Determined to make Florida the most attractive place to do business, FDOT began implementing BOLD roadside beautification projects. Relying on the selection and placement of large high quality trees, FDOT is able instantly to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience. It’s often the first and lasting impression of our state and communities.

Now, in 2014, as a result of Secretary Prasad’s leadership, there is little doubt or debate in Florida about the wisdom of investing in highway beautification. In 2011, Ananth Prasad was named Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation by Governor Rick Scott. Prasad is responsible for managing the $7 billion agency which oversees infrastructure projects, including port dredging, highway expansion and maintenance projects. Congratulations, Secretary Prasad on earning FNGLA’s 2014 Friend of the Industry Award!

The winners for 2014 are as follows:

OUTSTANDING CHAPTER SECRETARY/TREASURERLou Harrelson, Salmon’s Wholesale Nursery, Ocala, FLFrontrunners Chapter

OUTSTANDING CHAPTER PRESIDENTShaun Brown, Shade Tree Farm, Morriston, FLFrontrunners Chapter

OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR Erin Harlow, Duval County Extension, UF/IFAS, Jacksonville, FL

OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER MEMBERMike Tevelonis, Botanics Wholesale, Homestead, FL

FARM CREDIT/FNGLA YOUNG NURSERY PROFESSIONALTy Strode, AgriStarts, Inc., Apopka, FL

FNGLA 2014 FRIEND OF THE INDUSTRYAnanth Prasad, P.E., SecretaryFlorida Department of Transportation

HALL OF FAME INDUCTEESLarry Walker, Nurseryman’s Sure-Gro, Vero Beach, FL, deceasedJake Koornneef, Delray Plants, Venus, FL deceased

WENDELL E. BUTLER AWARD WINNERChet Peckett, Peckett’s Inc., Apopka, FL

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FNGLA HAPPENINGSFNGLA’s Landscape Awards: Submit Best Projects by June 27

FNGLA’s 2014 Landscape Awards program is now open for you to submit your very best landscape projects! As the industry

is again on the rise, now is a grand opportunity to promote and position your landscape firm as one of the “best of the best” our

professional industry has to offer! FNGLA’s Landscape Awards bring excellence and prestige to your business portfolio. The deadline for

all entry applications is 5 p.m. on Friday, June 27. The cost to submit a project for the program is $145 for FNGLA members and $200 for non-FNGLA members. There is no fee for nominations for any of the Special Recognition awards.

Winning projects will be recognized and winners will receive their awards on the main stage of the The Landscape Show, September 25 - 27 in Orlando.

Chosen from the pool of winning projects, three projects are elevated with additional honors at the show: the Floriculture Award; the Roy Rood Award (best Project of the Year); and, the Florida Friendly Landscape Award. In addition, the Blakely Award is presented to an FNGLA member-business which exemplifies design and landscape excellence by the appearance of the landscaping at their place of business. There is always much to celebrate!

A recap of last year’s project winners can be located here: http://www.fngla.org/recognition/landscape-awards/winners.aspx.

All entries will be judged this summer by a panel of distinguished industry jurists. For more details such as qualifying project criteria, visit FNGLA’s website at http://www.fngla.org/recognition/landscape-awards.

Submit New Installations; Redesign/

Renovation; and, Maintenance projects in the

following categories:

• Residential Single-Family• Residential Community• Commercial• Theme Park• Institutional/Public • Interior Project• Special Project• Student Project• Environmentally Sustainable Site

Special Awards include:

• FNGLA S.J. Blakely Award• FNGLA Floriculture Award• FNGLA Florida Friendly Landscape™ Award• FNGLA Roy Rood Award

Winners from the 2013 awards received their plaques from Adam Putnam, Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture

at The Landscape Show’s main stage.

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FNGLA HAPPENINGSFNGLA & Fresh From Florida Make Impact on Florida LegislatureFNGLA plants graced the desks of all 160 state legislators in both chambers of the State Capital in Tallahassee for the opening day of the 2014 Florida Legislative session.

Special thanks to FNGLA member Briteleaf Citrus Nursery in Lake Panasoffkee for donating the Key lime nursery plants! They were presented as a joint gesture on the part of FNGLA and the Fresh From Florida campaign.

Florida Water StarSM Training & Testing ExpandsFlorida Water StarSM (FWS) training and testing was offered in January at the University of Florida Duval County Extension Office in Jacksonville thanks to support from JEA, the FNGLA Northeast Chapter and the Florida Irrigation Society.

The next stop was in February for the FWS program at the Sarasota office of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, with support from Hunter Industries. This comprehensive water conservation program focuses on Florida-friendly landscape alternatives and irrigation requirements that can have a major impact on water usage.

SJRWMD has contracted with FNGLA to administer the FWS Accredited Professional exams in irrigation and landscape. The number of professionals have earned one or both of these designations since testing began in 2010 rose to 155 this year.

For more information, contact Merry Mott at FNGLA at 800-375-3642 or mmott@fngla.org. Complete information about the Florida Water StarSM program can be found at www.floridawaterstar.com or contact Deirdre Irwin at the St. Johns River Water Management District at is (386) 329-4341 or dirwin@sjrwmd.com.

Florida Water Star Coordinator Deirdre Irwin from the St. John’s River Water Management District introduces the

program to attendees in Jacksonville.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District hosted Florida Water Star training and testing in Sarasota.

10

INDUSTRY NEWS

Promote Florida Ag Literacy Day in Your Local Classroom, April 29The 11th annual Florida Agriculture Literacy Day is scheduled for Tuesday, April 29, 2014, and the children’s book developed for it highlights agriculture-related programs in schools around the state.

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Florida Agriculture in the Classroom invite farmers, growers, ranchers, Farm Bureau members, Florida cattlemen and cattlewomen, University of Florida IFAS extension and 4-H agents, master gardeners, FFA teachers and students and agriculture industry representatives to read in kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms around the state as part of the event. To register as a reader for your local school, go to: http://faitc.org/aglitday/register-a-reader/.

This year’s book is called Florida Farms at School and features Agriculture in the Classroom, FFA, 4-H, Farm to School, school gardens and other agriculture-related programs in Florida schools. Volunteer readers are encouraged to read on Agriculture Literacy Day, but they have until the end of the school year to complete their readings.

The book and materials will be provided to volunteer readers for free thanks to the funding Florida Agriculture in the Classroom receives from sales of the agriculture specialty license plate called the ‘Ag Tag.’

To buy an Ag Tag online, go to: http://www.myfloridaspecialtyplate.com/gallery.html. For more information contact Lisa Gaskalla at 352-846-1391 or email gaskalla@ufl.edu.

Help Requested for New Florida Trees Field Guide DevelopmentThe UF/IFAS Center for Landscape Conservation and Ecology is producing a new Florida trees printed field guide and corresponding mobile app. Landscape professionals are one of the target audiences and the Center is looking to receive feedback on product pricing and placement.

Industry members can help with this content development by particpating in a short online survey. If you’d like to participate, it should only take about 5 minutes to complete. Participants who complete the survey will be entered into a drawing to receive a Florida Extension gardening bookstore prize pack.

Access the survey at: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_37wJLnXurLsaqTH.

11

INDUSTRY NEWS

FFA Students Compete in Industry Events Nearly 350 students demonstrated their horticultural skills at the Florida FFA Career Development Events (CDEs) in Floriculture and Nursery/Landscape at the University of Florida Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka on Saturday, March 8, 2014. This was the first year the event was held in Central Florida after being hosted by FNGLA’s Pinellas Chapter in St. Petersburg for eight years.

FFA CDEs present students with real-life situations that can be found in the workplace, including plant, pest & tool identification, landscape management, customer assistance and Best Management Practices. Both problem-solving skills and horticultural knowledge were tested by volunteers from all over the state.

Congratulations to the winning schools:

Floriculture High School: Leesburg Senior High in Leesburg

Floriculture Middle School: Oak Leaf Middle School in Orange Park

Nursery & Landscape High School: Oak Leaf High School in Orange Park

Nursery & Landscape Middle School: Barrington Middle School in Lithia

Thank you to our volunteers and committee members: Linda Adams; Victoria Alamilla; Jackie Almeida; Lourdes Almonte; Victoria Bay; Shaun Brown; Steve Brown; Billy Butterfield; Don Christner; Bonnie Desmond; Joel Dobbs; Javier Garces; Marilu Gonzales; Dean Hall; Eduardo Hernandez; Mark Loftus; John Madison; Julie Markowitz; Diane Mealo; Andrew Nielson; Susan Pfeil; Robert Sanford; Diane Sappington; Don Schoonover; Deb Siegel; Lloyd Singleton; and,Neta Villalobos-Bell.

The winning high school teams will represent Florida at the national competition at the FFA Convention in October. For more information, contact Merry Mott at FNGLA or call 800-375-3642.

Thank you Sponsors:

Action Chapter, FNGLAAmerican Institute of Floral DesignersAmeriscapes Landscape ManagementBig Bend Chapter, FNGLABroward Chapter, FNGLAJoe’s NurseryJohn Madison LandscapeJon’s NurseryMiami-Dade Chapter, FNGLANortheast Chapter, FNGLAPinellas Chapter, FNGLARoyal Palm Chapter, FNGLAUniversity of Florida, Mid-Florida REC

The FFA Career Development Day was held in Apopka and included a variety of skill testing including general horticulture knowledge, job evaluation, problem-solving skills and a hands-on floral activity provided by the

American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD).

12

New FFA State Headquarters Break Ground

Florida FFA recently broke ground on its new, 6,000 square-foot building. The facility, located on the grounds of the iconic Florida Farm Bureau Building, will include a welcome center, conference rooms, a kitchen, office space, storage areas, accommodations for overnight guests and an outdoor pavilion. The Florida FFA currently rents 1,600 square feet of space from Florida Farm Bureau. FFA officers and staff members will move into their new building once construction is completed this summer. The $1.5 million project was funded by contributions from Florida Farm Bureau Federation, Florida Farm Bureau Insurance Company and donations from across the state. The facility will enhance the FFA’s ability to provide training, leadership and personal growth experiences for young people in middle schools and high schools.

The Florida FFA Association is a premier youth, leadership organization with over 15,000 middle and high school student members – in more than 300 local FFA chapters across the state. FFA members participate in nearly 50 leadership and career development events each year. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.

Pollinators and Pesticides: What’s Next for Neonicotinoids?Despite mounting evidence that neonicotinoid pesticides (e.g. clothianidin, dinotefuran, imidacloprid, thiamethoxam) are not a significant actor but more likely a bit player in the challenges facing pollinators, activist groups have continued and even expanded their efforts to ban the chemicals through picketing campaigns and working with elected officials who are sympathetic to their agenda. Seven states (AK, MD, ME, NJ, NY, OR, VT) and Puerto Rico are currently considering or have considered legislation that would ban or significantly limit access to neonicotinoid insecticides.

Although unlikely to pass, there is legislation pending before the U.S. House Agriculture Committee (H.R. 2692, the Saving America’s Pollinators Act). The bill would effectively put a national moratorium on most neonicotinoid applications until an array of studies, including multi-year “residue build-up” evaluations, are completed and only if a final determination is made that the pesticides “will not cause unreasonable adverse effects on pollinators.”

Dr. Joe Bischoff is AmericanHort’s Director of Government Relations. Read more from him on this topic at: http://americanhort.theknowledgecenter.com/AmericanHortNews/index.cfm?view=detail&colid=124&cid=326&mid=6013.

INDUSTRY NEWS

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CERTIFICATIONS

Spring Highlights FNGLA Landscape Certification Exams Two FNGLA Certified Landscape Technician exams took place in February and March, certifying 21 more landscape professionals as FCLTs. To date, there are exactly 2,000 FNGLA Certified Professionals. 358 professionals hold at least one landscape certification.

The spring landscape exam schedule kicked off February 22 with the FCLT exam at Pinellas Technical Education Center in St. Petersburg. Sporadic rain made it interesting for judges and applicants alike, but the day ran smoothly with great volunteers.

SeaWorld Horticulture in Orlando followed with the FCLT exam on March 22. Beautiful spring weather greeted the applicants who came from as far away as the Panhandle, Homestead and the Bahamas.

SeaWorld Horticulture will host FNGLA’s Certified Landscape Maintenance Technician (FCLMT) exam on April 12. Broward Chapter FNGLA will host its first bilingual FCLT exam at the UF Ft. Lauderdale Research Center on May 2.

For more information, contact Merry Mott at FNGLA at mmott@fngla.org or visit the certifications area of the FNGLA website: http://www.fngla.org/certifications/index.aspx.

FCLT Exam Pinellas Technical Education Center

Hosts: Glenn Duncan, FCLC & Fred Rodgers, pTEC Horticulture

Judges:Jackie Almeida, FCHPLoretta Carey, FCHP, Atlantis ResortsEvamae DeVeaux, FCLMT, Atlantis ResortsKen Dobler, FCLC, Westcoast LandscapeRob Foppe, FCLT, A Better View LawnFrank Gabry, FCLC, AALDebby Laramee, FCHP, City of Madeira BeachPete McKay, FCLC, ERW LandscapeMaria Muhlhahn, FCHP, ArtisTreeBundy Sands, FCLT, Atlantis Resorts

FCLT Exam SeaWorld Horticulture

Host: Gary Weitermann, FCLMT, SeaWorld

Judges:Billy Butterfield, FCLC, AmeriscapesDon Christner, FCHPAustin Douglas, FCLT, Douglas LandscapeTim Harris, FCLC, ValleyCrestKen Howell, FCHPSteven Jenkins, FCLT, Jenkins LandscapeCarlos Pulido, FCLC, Sunflower LandscapingPaul Sykora, FCLC, ValleyCrestKris Thiel, FCLT, MainscapeLinda Tootle, FCLT, Tootle Construction

Judges evaluate each exam applicant based on the set of criteria established by

FNGLA’s Certification Committee.

15

CERTIFICATIONS

Palm Banding and Propping is one of the field exam stations in the

FCLT exam.

After a month-long training class at pTEC, the students had success on

the FCLT exam.

Exam applicants must understand landform and proper drainage at the

Grading station.

FCLT applicants repair a break in an irrigation line before setting the controller to the correct run time.

Proper placement and handling of plants brings success on the Plan

Layout exam station.

Exam applicants from across Florida and the Bahamas tested at SeaWorld

Horticulture.

Judges certified through FNGLA volunteered their time for the day-

long FCLT exam.

Safety is the most important aspect of the Equipment station.

The May 2 FCLT exam in Davie will feature bilingual judges to accommodate more landscape

professionals.

16

MEMBER NEWS

Costa Farms Acquires Hermann Englemann GreenhousesCosta Farms just announced it has acquired the business, assets, and brands of Hermann Engelmann Greenhouses, Inc. of Apopka, Florida, one of the country’s premier small-foliage growers.

Under the visionary direction of the Engelmann family, Hermann Engelmann Greenhouses has played a leading role in the indoor houseplant industry for more than 40 years. Guided by a solid team, the company has built a rich heritage reflected in the company’s high-quality products and state-of-the-art production facilities.

“It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to work with a team that has been committed to quality for so many years,” said Jose Costa, Executive Vice President and co-owner of Costa Farms. “The Engelmann organization has done an outstanding job cultivating and keeping their brand strong with 40+ years of hard work and dedication. And we feel a huge component of this transaction is the skill and expertise of the Engelmann production team,” he added.

Costa Farms will continue to support the Exotic Angel® brand, and looks to build on its heritage, legacy, and portfolio of more than 400 plant varieties. “Being the most recognized houseplant brand in the country, Exotic Angel® is a perfect complement to join the Costa portfolio of brands, such as O2 for You and Plants of Steel,” Costa says.

Hermann Englemann Greenhouses operates under nearly 69 acres of greenhouses and has some 300 employees. “We’re pleased to be working with Costa Farms because they share our dedicated work ethic and demand for quality. We can’t imagine a better company to continue moving our brand forward,” said Chuck Romagnoli, CEO of Hermann Engelmann Greenhouses, Inc.

Arnold Returns to Southwest Florida Research & Education Center

Calvin Arnold, who led the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center for 10 years, will return to that post next month, UF’s Jack Payne, senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources, announced.

“We are so fortunate to have Dr. Arnold back with UF/IFAS,” Payne said. “He is well- versed in the issues that are most critical for agricultural producers in that region, which is a huge advantage, and he’s a great leader, as well.”

Arnold, who now works for the Agricultural Research Service, the research arm of the United States Department of Agriculture, said he’s happy to be returning to UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, where he spent 31 years earlier in his career. He begins his new role at the center April 1. “It feels right … kind of like going home,” he said.

Arnold said his overriding goal for the Southwest Florida REC will be to foster collaboration and coordination among the center’s stakeholders, faculty and staff, and administrators.

Arnold holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education from the University of Florida, a master’s in fruit crops and a doctorate in horticulture from Michigan State University.

17

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome New MembersThe following are new FNGLA members: from February 22, 2014 - March 21, 2014

ACTIONDarryl Castaneda (Student)4977 Oakbrooke PlOrlando, FL 32812-2744 850-294-3140

Dynamics Group, Inc.Mahendra Setaram499 Kindling CtOcoee, FL 34761 407-292-1752

BROWARD4-Evergreen Landscaping Inc.Dorothy Briggs Full23325 S University Dr # 204Davie, FL 33328 954-752-5296Rec’d by: Dave Jordling, On the Side Landscaping, LLC

BROWARDCity of PlantationBrian Law (Supportive)750 N 91st AvePlantation, FL 33324 954-414-8958

MANASOTAThrive Landscapes LLCJohn Lay2515 49th StSarasota, FL 34234 941-350-5532

OUTSIDE FLORIDANew Market Agricultural Equipment Co., Inc.Lee Hammons501 New Market RdNew Market, AL 35761 256-379-2553

PALM BEACHHeaven’s Acres Inc.Guy DiVosta2523 Burns RdPalm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 561-625-4663

William Parry (Supportive)6671 W Indiantown Rd #244Jupiter, FL 33458 561-262-7817

PINELLASElizabeth Zuniga (Student)5121 54th St NSt. Petersburg, FL 33709 727-512-5577

ROYAL PALMBuckeye Lawn and LandscapeChristopher Luda134 NE 6th AveCape Coral, FL 33909 239-339-3255

Rainbow Treecare Scientific AdvancementsKevin Graham4926 10th St SWCape Coral, FL 33914 239-671-2705Rec’d by: James Quinn, Horticultural Alliance, Inc.

TAMPA BAYA B Capital Group, LLC dba Arbor OneAaron Weber5310 Cypress Center Dr Ste 101Tampa, FL 33609 813-262-0059

You should have received notice recently to renew your FNGLA Membership for the upcoming 2014-2015 year. If you’ve done so, we thank you. If not, please take the time to reinvest in your association. We’re looking forward to a great year representing your business interests!

Calendar of EventsFNGLAPhone: 407.295.7994Toll-free: 800.375.3642Fax: 407.295.1619E-mail: info@fngla.orgWeb: www.fngla.org

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERBen Bolusky

GREENLINE EDITORJennifer Nelisjnelis@fngla.org

PresidentMike MarshallMarshall Tree Farm17350 SE 65th StMorriston, FL 32668-4508(352) 528-3880

Past President Wes ParrishParrish Nursery5900 SW 185th WayFt. Lauderdale, FL 33332(954) 680-3544

President-Elect Sandy SteinThe Jungle Nursery29100 SW 162 Ave Homestead, FL 33030(305) 246-5324

Secretary/Treasurer Billy ButterfieldAmeriScapes Landscape Management Services, Inc.PO Box 568762Orlando, FL 32856-5041(407) 872-0855

Contact UsSee and submit events at http://www.fngla.org, under calendar

About FNGLA

Connect with us:

2013-2014 STATE OFFICERS

1533 Park Center Dr iveOr lando, FL 32835-5705

Read the latest FNGLA news inside & visit Greenline online at http://greenline.fngla.org

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PAIDORLANDO, FLPERMIT #2041

This publication is produced by the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) as a service to its members. The statements and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Association, its staff, Board of Directors, Greenline or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers or their identification as members does not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services.

The mission of the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association is to promote and protect the success and professionalism of our members.

April5-10: 2014 California Spring Trials, throughout Southern California

8: FNGLA Certified Landscape Contractor Training Class begins, pTEC, St. Petersburg

10-11: The Native Plant Show, UF-IFAS Osceola County Extension Service, Kissimmee

16: Measuring Outcomes of Landscape Site Visits and Individual Teachings, Dr. Laura Sanagorski, PIE Center Webinar

25-27: Southeastern Flower Show, Buckhead Theatre, Atlanta

May14: Economic Outlook for the Florida Horticulture Industry, Dr. Hayk Khachatryan, PIE Center Webinar

14-15: 2014 Floriculture Field Days & Performance Trials, Orlando

15-18: Florida Native Plant Society’s 34th Annual Conference, Ft. Myers

22-26: 41st Annual Bonsai Societies of Florida Convention, Florida Hotel & Conference Center, Orlando