THE DIRT

Spring Issue 2020, Volume 46, Issue 1

COVID-19 - The New Normal page 4

VNLA Award Winners -2019-2020 page 7

Pink Ribbons1 and White Lace page 26

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT Ralph Fitz-Gerald COMMITTEES
Horsford Gardens & Nursery
Ashley Robinson 2111 Greenbush Road BUDGET AND FINANCE
Ashley Robinson Landscape Designer Charlotte, VT 05445 COMMITTEE CHAIR
PO Box 28 802-425-2811 Gabe Bushey - Crafted Landscapes, LLC
Charlotte, VT 05445 field@horsfordnursery.com 802.425.5222
802.922.1924
arobinsonld@gmail.com Sarah Salatino EVALUATION & PLANNING COMMITTEE
Full Circle Gardens CHAIR
VICE-PRESIDENT 68 Brigham Hill Road Ashley Robinson, Landscape Designer
Essex, VT 05452 802.922.1924
Hannah Decker 802-879-1919
Fairfax Perennial Farm, Inc. info@fullcirclegardens.com INDUSTRY AWARDS COMMITTEE CHAIR
7 Blackberry Hill Road Ashley Robinson, Landscape Designer
Fairfax, VT 05454 Elise Schadler 802.922.1924
802.849.2775 VT Urban & Community Forestry Program
perennialfarm@surfglobal.net Department of Forests, Parks & Recreation LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR
Program Manager Gabriel Bushey - Crafted Landscapes, LLC
111 West Street 802.233.8551
SECRETARY/TREASURER Essex Junction, VT 05452
Gabriel Bushey 802-522-6015 MARKETING & EDUCATION
Crafted Landscapes, LLC elise.schadler@vermont.gov COMMITTEE CHAIR
176 South Maple Street Ashley Robinson, Landscape Designer
Vergennes, VT 05491 Pat Toporowski
802.922.1924
802.233.8551 Vermont Stone & Horticulture
gabe.w.bushey@gmail.com 1869 Main Street
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS
Colchester, VT 05446
Hannah Decker - Fairfax Perennial Farm
DIRECTORS 802-876-7801
802.849.2775
pat@vermontstone.com
Nate Carr Ashley Robinson, Landscape Designer
Church Hill Landscapes, Inc. 802.922.1924
287 Church Hill Road EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Charlotte, VT 05445 PROGRAM COMMITTEE CHAIR
802.425.5222 Kristina MacKulin Ralph Fitz-Gerald - Horsford Gardens &
nate@churchhilllandscapes.com VNLA/Green Works Nursery
P.O. Box 92 802-425-2811
Marlys Eddy N. Ferrisburgh, VT 05473
Vermont Technical College Toll Free: 888.518.6484 RESEARCH & AWARDS
PO Box 500 P: 802.425.5117
Randolph Center, VT 05061 Kristina@greenworksvermont.org VERMONT CERTIFIED HORTICULTURIST
802.728.1207 www.greenworksvermont.org COMMITTEE CHAIR
mxe03080@vtc.vsc.edu Nate Carr - Church Hill Landscapes, Inc.
802.425.5222

THE D
Spring
IR Issue
2016,
Volum
e 42,
Issue
1
T Connect with the VNLA/
Advertise with us! Green Works on Social Media!
Connect with us, post to our pages, or let us know something
Contact the Dr. Pe
lle
special you would like to share and we'll share it. It's another
tt Aw

VNLA office today! way for us to help your business thrive! You can find us at ...
Green ard
Works page
Habi Aw ards
5
tat La
ndsc
apes page
on So 12
1
lar Sit
es

IRT
page

THE D
21

Issue 2
me 42,
6, Volu
Issue 201

888.518.6484
Summer

Facebook: @greenworksvt & @vermontflowershow

The Ro
tary Bo
tanic
Garden
page
5

Instagram: @greenworksvt & @vtflowershow

1

2
 PRESIDENT’S LETTER Ashley Robinson, Landscape Designer

inside
this issue
Board of Directors 2

The President’s Letter 3

The Buzz 4
COVID-19 - The New
Dear Fellow VNLA Members & Friends, Normal

VNLA Winter Meeting

“Wow.” I’ve been saying this a lot these days, seems each day offers more ‘wows’ than the last.
Recap
“Unbelievable, crazy and wild” also circulate the airwaves. Sentiments, among others, (that I’m
sure you can imagine, but I can’t say), fill our thoughts and minds. The arrival of COVID-19 VNLA Award Winners
2019-2020
brings so many questions and uncertainties it can be hard to manage navigating ways forward.
This is why the resources and community building efforts that have made the VNLA so strong VNLA Strategic Planning
are what we can be thankful for especially now. Kristina has been instrumental in keeping us all Update
informed, supported and heard. So a big THANK YOU to her for the daily/weekly deciphering of
Calendar of Events
the guidelines for our industry and beyond.
Leonard’s Clippings 14
We are also trying something new with this issue. In an effort to keep costs at a minimum, we’ve
decided to offer it on-line only. Printed versions may be available in the future, but as with The Lab 16
everything these days, we’re taking it one issue at a time. So unfortunately no running to the Observations from
mailbox to flip the pages, but we’re still here! UVM Diagnostic Lab

News from the VT Agency of

And here we are in spring! It’s one wonderful thing we can be thankful for in this new reality. Agriculture
This timing is coincidental and somehow poignant. When our need for connectivity and
reassurance is so great, what better place to be, than outdoors. Springtime brings a sense of The Sedulous Syrphid Fly
rebirth, renewal, healing and health. There is new life and energy around, bringing sunlight,
warmth, color and freshness. These are all ‘wows’ worth celebrating! And I’m sure many are and UMASS Extension Begins
will be in more ways than ever before. This is what brings joy. Insect Video Series

The Idea Factory 24

The awesome power of nature shows itself in so many ways. It restores, repairs and offers hope
Nature’s Best Hope
and enrichment. All of which is so necessary today. The sun will shine, plants will sprout,
flowers bloom, and the healing happens right before our eyes. Nature has ways of repairing Tick Talk
itself. We are a part of that process and so always learning from it, but one thing is for sure. We
Pink Ribbons & White Lace
are stronger together and we have the power to help our communities bring the joy of nature
alive. Strictly Business 28
COVID-19 Drives New and
So let’s dig in! Nimble Strategies

New Member Profile:

Warmth and well wishes to everyone this spring.
Flying Mammoths Landscape
Design

The Plant Lounge 35

Maackia amurensis

Ashley
Cover Photo: by Dick Conrad.
Judith Irven’s garden in Goshen,
VT with Rhododendron ‘Bright
Lights’ stealing the show!
3
 THE BUZZ
the low down on what’s up!
COVID-19 - The New Normal
by Kristina MacKulin
Let me begin by saying THANK YOU! Since
all this began 6 plus weeks ago, I have
spoken to many of you, either on the phone
or via email. Thank you for your kind and
thoughtful words and actions as we all
learned how to navigate the twists and turns
these last weeks have thrown at us. Thank
you for your patience and stepping up to the
plate to do what it took to help flatten the
curve on the spread of the coronavirus. The
road has been difficult, both financially and
emotionally. It has been wonderful to see
VNLA members and associates come
together to help one another with these
difficult decisions and challenging times.
YOU ARE ALL AMAZING!
On April 27, 2020 Addendum 11, Phase 2
of Work Smart and Stay Safe - Restart VT
was put into place. The guidelines were
expanded to allow landscaping companies to
now have 5 workers per location/job (Phase
1 allowed 2 workers per location). Even
more good news followed with the opening
of “outdoor only retail spaces” which
included garden centers, greenhouses and
nurseries. The guidelines included 2 people
per 200 square feet with a maximum of 10
people per business (including employees).
The goal remains to limit in-person contact
as much as possible and encourage
customers to still use delivery and curbside
pick up. Also announced effective May 1,
farmers markets would be able to open,
again with specific guidelines to follow.
On May 1, 2020 Addendum 12 , Phase 3 of
Work Smart and Stay Safe - Restart VT was
put into place. The guideline changes
pertaining to our industry included
expanding the amount of workers of
landscaping companies from 5 to 10 per
location/job site. New business sectors that
were allowed to begin operations included
manufacturing, construction, and
distribution operations, all with detailed
guidelines to adhere to. You can find all the
updates announced on 5/1/20 HERE.
COVID-19 Recovery Resource Center, which
There are also very specific MANDATORY
has resources for businesses, including
health and safety requirements for all
sector guidance, resources for communities
businesses and employees to follow, in
and individuals. You can sign up for their
addition to the VT Department of Health
email newsletter as well. Here is the link:
and CDC guidelines. You can find those
https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19. The
safety requirements HERE. Please note
Agency of Agriculture also has a COVID-19
that VOSHA is requiring mandatory training
information page and a weekly newsletter to
of each employee on COVID-19 safety
subscribe to. This is the link for that page:
protocols and employers are required to
https://agriculture.vermont.gov/
document this training.
covid-19-information. I know all of this
information can be overwhelming but they
All of this REALLY EXCELLENT news
are good ways to stay informed and there is
means that the sacrifices Vermonters and VT
a trove of resources to navigate.
businesses have made these past six plus
weeks has made these phased restarts
One thing for sure is that the season is upon
possible and has slowed the spread of
us, the daffodils are blooming and the lilacs
COVID-19 in Vermont even more then they
are budding fast! While we may find
expected. We all can recognize that we are
ourselves in a new normal way of living and
far from being out of the woods yet BUT we
working, the growing and planting season
have proven that being smart, keeping safe
offers us all hope.
and slowly opening up our economy again is
a reasonable path forward. If this trajectory
I remain humbled and ever grateful by all
continues, I remain hopeful that more and
the efforts that the workers on the front
more businesses can open their doors soon!
lines have undertaken these past weeks. I
am encouraged by the fact that as
Here at the VNLA I/we will continue to stay
Vermonters we are all in this together and
in close contact with the Agencies of
are willing to do what it takes to help flatten
Agriculture and Commerce & Community
this curve and help our neighbors and
Development, as well as with the Governor,
friends. We are seeing all of this play out
Lt. Governor, and the various policy makers
over and over again in places across our
in the Legislature. I/we will also continue to
country. We will get on the other side of this
stay in touch with all our members and
with perseverance.
associates with up-to-date information,
which has been changing weekly. Please
Lastly, I applaud all of the VNLA members
don’t hesitate to reach out to us if we can
and associates working in the ornamental
help in any way. There is a COVID-19
horticulture industry in VT and beyond. It is
RESOURCE page on our website HERE.
a privilege to nurture our plants and
which lists the following:
landscapes, especially at a time where being
• General Information home and outdoors is the safest place to be.
• Business Resources All of you get to play a pivotal role in
• Financial Resources bringing the joys of our industry into
• Mental Health Resources peoples’ lives.
• Join the VNLA Private FaceBook
Discussion Group
I also recommend the VT Agency of
Commerce and Community Development
4
VNLA/Green Works Winter Meeting Recap
by Kristina MacKulin
The VNLA/Green Works Next came a morning
Winter Meeting and Trade break giving everyone a
Show was held on February chance to visit with
13, 2020 at the UVM Davis vendors as well as catch up
Center in Burlington, VT. with one another followed
Frankly that seems like a by the VNLA/Green Works
lifetime ago compared to annual business meeting.
where we are today. With New 2019 members and
that said in keeping with VCHERs were recognized.
tradition following is a Next the VNLA Awards,
recap of the day when we student merit awards, and
could all be together in the Industry Awards were
one big room where we presented. Please see the
were learning, sharing, and following article in this
talking together! Let’s issue recognizing the
hope we can gather for the recipients of those awards.
summer! At the very least
we hope to have a potluck, Also during the business
social gathering when restrictions are meeting reports were made on the
loosened. 2019 Vermont Flower Show, the 2021
Vermont Flower Show, and the VNLA’s
We had 150 people attend and 18 vendors Volunteer Project Outreach
participate. Thanks to all of you who were Committee update. The VNLA has
able to join us for the day! It is always such committed to a 2020 project in
a pleasure to see everyone for a day of collaboration with Green Mountain
learning and good conversations. Habitat for Humanity. Reports were
then given regarding the VNLA
We were very pleased to have Suzanne Strategic Planning process for 2020
Wainwright-Evans, owner of Buglady and Treasurer Nate Carr gave the
Consulting as our keynote speaker. membership a financial report. All
Suzanne is a graduate of the University of Committee Reports can be found in
FL and has been working in the the Winter Issue of The Dirt,
horticulture industry for more than 25 2019/20. President Ashley Robinson
years.  Her focus has been on biological also shared news about the on-going
control and using pesticides properly.  VNLA Economic Impact Industry-
She has worked throughout the United Wide survey and urged member
States and internationally consulting to businesses to complete the survey by
greenhouses, nurseries, and gardens.  March 31, 2020.

Suzanne was thoroughly engaging and The Board of Directors thanked

spoke about “IPM for the Ornamental Marie Limoge for her two years of
Landscape”. Her presentation focused on service on the board as she decided
the importance for growers and to step off the board. A slate of
landscapers to learn about the candidates for the board of directors
importance beneficials can play a role in Top: Suzanne Wainwright-Evans of Buglady Consulting was presented and elected as follows
managing pests. Suzanne spoke about gives her keynote address. for two year terms: Hannah Decker of
beneficials that are already in the Middle and Bottom: Attendees visit with vendors. Fairfax Perennial Farm, as vice-
landscape working for you and if you do president, Ralph Fitz-Gerald of
have to spray, how to select a pesticide Horsford Gardens & Nursery, as a director, Nate Carr of Church
that will have minimum impact on the “good guys”. Hill Landscaping, Inc., as a director, and Patrick Toporowski of
Vermont Stone & Horticulture, as a director. Next a vote was

5
called to accept Gabriel shared their business
Bushey of Crafted experiences. The
Landscapes, LLC as the new conversation at this table
VNLA Secretary/Treasurer. was lively and informative.
His existing term concludes at Jake Jacobs, the director of
the end of 2020. Nate Carr the UVM Agriculture Risk
was thanked for his six years Management and Crop
serving in the role of Insurance Program gave
Secretary/Treasurer and the an update on nursery crop
board is grateful Nate is insurance resources and
remaining on the board in a programs available to
new role. VNLA members. After this
presentation, the VT
After lunch, the VNLA/ Top: Graham MacHarg gives an Industry Award presentation. Urban and Community
Below: Elise Schadler talks to the group about Emerald Ash Borer. Forestry Program
Green Works Industry
Award winners Manager, Elise
presented their winning Schadler, gave and
projects via a slideshow updated and presentation
presentation followed by a on the Emerald Ash Borer
break to visit vendors. (EAB) in Vermont. Elise
talked about the basic
Afternoon concurrent biology of EAB and how it
sessions were held with spread across North
Suzanne Wainwright- America. The group
Evans presentation “IPM in the Greenhouse” where she discussed management strategies and treatment options.
spoke about greenhouse pest management using biological
controls. Suzanne focused on where we are today in the Once again, we held the annual ID contest and a big shout out
greenhouse pest world and what controls are working best. to VJ Comai who helps with the specimens and to Dr. Leonard
Perry for “grading” the answer sheets. We are pleased to
Mike Lizotte, owner of American Meadows and also known as announce that once again Dave Berg of Horsfords Garden &
the “Seed Man” has been helping professionals and Nursery was the winner and took home a $100 check! Thanks
homeowners for more than 25 years plant meadows. Mike gave to all who participated!
a presentation “Establishing Meadows in the Landscape”
and spoke about meadow establishment and the tips and tricks As we find ourselves living in a entirely different world and the
of what works and what doesn’t work in the commercial trade. way of being in our world has changed, please know we are all
in this together and the VNLA will continue to offer
The second round of presentations in the afternoon included educational opportunities as well as be a voice for all of our
the “Let’s Talk! Business Roundtable Discussion”, led by members. We are going to get on the other side of COVID-19!
Ashley Robinson, where fellow colleagues sat down and

Pesticide Training and Recertification Online Courses Available

The UVM Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program
is providing on line courses to help study for pesticide
applicator exams and to provide recertification credits for
certified pesticide applicators. These on-demand, self-paced
courses are presented through narrated video modules.
Current courses:
• Northeast CORE Manual Review (no credit)
• Northeast CORE Manual Review, Unit #1 (1 credit)
• Northeast CORE Manual Review, Unit #2 (1 credit)
• Northeast CORE Manual Review, Unit #3 (1 credit)
• Northeast CORE Manual Review, Unit #4 (1 credit)
• *NEW* Category 7A Manual Review (no credit)
Courses are available through eXtension Campus, part of the
national Cooperative Extension System, and open to the
general public and certified pesticide applicators throughout
the Northeast.
Visit https://www.uvm.edu/extension/pseponline for
course details.

6
VNLA/Green Works Award Winners - 2019 / 2020

The presentation of the VNLA/Green Environmental Awareness Award -

2019
This award is presented annually to a retail
garden center or greenhouse operation that
Works awards occurred at the Winter
David Fried stands apart for their excellence in any or
Meeting on February 13, 2020. We are
Elmore Roots Fruit Tree Nursery all of the following categories: customer
pleased to recognize those recipients below
Elmore, VT service, quality of plant material,
and extend our CONGRATULATIONS!
knowledge of staff, creativity and
Winners received their awards in the order
innovations in marketing and presentation
listed below. The awards were presented
of retail space, and overall customer
by VNLA president Ashley Robinson,
experience and satisfaction.
unless otherwise noted.
Allen B. Crane Horticultural Employee
VNLA Young Nursery Professional of Acknowledgement Award - 2019
the Year Award - 2020 Lily Belisle
Michelle Blow Red Wagon Plants
University of Vermont Plant & Animal Hinesburg, VT
Biology Facilities Department

This award is given in recognition of an

individual that has implemented an
environmentally sound practice that
contributes to the protection of our
environment.

Retailer of the Year Award - 2019

Claussen’s Florist, Greenhouse & Julie Rubaud, owner of Red Wagon Plants
(on right), presented the award
Perennial Farm
to Lily Belisle.
Colchester, VT

This award is presented annually and is

This is an annual award that was
sponsored by member Claussen’s
established by the New England
Florist & Greenhouse in honor of Allen B.
Nursery Association and has been
Crane, head grower there for over
adopted by the VNLA. Its purpose is to
42 years. Allen was “a great friend,
reward, to honor and to encourage
wonderful colleague and an incredible
participation, achievement and growth by
grower”. This award recognizes employees
an individual who is involved in a related
that make a difference in the horticultural
horticultural industry and has not
industry. The winner receives a cash prize
reached the age of 40 years, who has
of $275. Nominees must meet the following
shown involvement in his or her state
criteria: be employed by a member business
and/or regional nurserymen’s
for a minimum of 5 years and be employed
association, has contributed to the
in the horticultural industry. Nominees
growth and success of their company of
should be exemplary leaders and display an
employment and has portrayed an image
Accepting the award on Claussen’s behalf ability to grow and excel in the workplace
to the public of what our products and
was James MacAuley. and beyond.
services can do for them.

7
 Horticultural Achievement Award -
2019
Ralph Fitz-Gerald
Horsford Gardens & Nursery
Charlotte, VT
Charlie Proutt, owner of Horsford Gardens &
Nursery (on right), presented the award
to Ralph Fitz-Gerald.
This award is given to individuals
connected to the horticultural industry in
Vermont, who are over 40 years of age
and whose accomplishments have
advanced our industry educationally, by
plant development or growing, through
literature, or through outstanding
personal effort. This award is the most
prestigious and distinguished that can be
received from the VNLA/Green Works.
and Snowboard club.  He represented
UVM in a national snowboarding
competition last year and will be doing so
again this year. Josiah is also active in
the UVM Horticulture Club where he
currently holds the position of Treasurer.
Josiah's work experience includes
landscaping at Heartbeet Lifesharing in
Hardwick, VT in 2017.  This is a
community for adults with
developmental disabilities that
interweaves the social, artistic, and
agricultural realms for healing and
renewing our society and the earth.  In
2018 he worked at Stuart LaPoint Nursery
in Craftsbury doing propagation, nursery
maintenance and some landscape design.
Last summer Josiah was a Lyman Wood
intern on the UVM campus where he was
responsible for installing vegetables,
flowers, herbs as well as some shrubs and
trees in numerous pollinator-friendly
garden beds on campus.
excited to learn and has stupendous grades
and attitude.”
 
Additionally, Kim has great dedication to
the green industry. She has been working
as a vegetable farmer for over ten years
and is “interested in all things plant-
related”. After graduation, Kim plans to
find mentors and gain hands-on
experience in the field while also
continuing to build her design skills. She
aspires to obtain her dry stone walling
certificate through The Stone Trust. Kim
enjoys all kinds of outdoor activities
including hiking, kayaking, cross-country
skiing, and exploring swimming holes.
She is originally from Columbus, Ohio
and now lives in Montpelier, Vermont,
with her husband and daughter who is in
the first grade.
All winners will be featured in a Seven Days
Newspaper insert on May 6, 2020.
Industry Awards Winners 2019
This program is in its eleventh year. Award
trophies were presented at the 2020 Winter
Meeting along with a slideshow of their
winning projects. You can also view
winning projects on our website -
www.greenworksvermont.org as well as
in The Dirt’s Winter Issue, 2019/20.
Winning projects will be highlighted on
May 6, 2020 in the Seven Days Newspaper as
a featured insert.

Below: The 2019 Industry Award winners

The $500 UVM Student Merit Award
for 2020 was presented to Josiah Gilbert of
Craftsbury, VT. Josiah grew up in
Craftsbury, VT where he was raised on his
parent's produce and livestock farm.
Josiah is a Junior in Sustainable
Landscape Horticulture in Plant and Soil
Science at UVM.
While at UVM, he has been quite involved
in a variety of activities including the Ski
The $500 VTC Student Merit Award for
from left to right: David Burton, diStefano
2020 was presented to Kimberly Myers. Landsaping, Inc.; Rick Rice, Earthscapes;
Kim is a second-year student who is Ralph Fitz-Gerald (standing in for Brian
earning her Associate of Applied Science in Pellerin) and Miles Weston, Distinctive
Landscape Contracting at Vermont Tech. Landscaping; Christian D’Andrea and
The VTC faculty are excited to nominate Charlie Proutt, Distinctive Landscaping;
Kim because of her excellent academic Graham MacHarg, Church Hill Landscapes,
achievements—she is at the top of her class Inc. Caroline Dudek , Landshapes is not
with a GPA of 4.0, her leadership in group pictured.
dynamics, and her
dedication to a career in
the green industry.
Pamelia Smith notes
that she, “has been such
an excellent leader and
role model for some of
the younger students”.
Teacher Marie Limoge
states that, “Kim is

8
VNLA Strategic Planning Update
by Ashley Robinson
A lot has happened in the world over the past 3 months; it’s The key issues surrounding these topics included:

dizzying to even think about!

Mentorship, Education Development, Diversification, the
Application Process, and Technology.
January 24th, the date of our Strategic Planning meeting, feels
like a lifetime ago. Certainly our lifestyles have changed
The group discussed developing a mentorship program- a way
dramatically, our ways of communicating and interacting have
of creating more programming geared specific to employees /
been altered, but I believe our commitments to missions we
employers, connecting members peer-to-peer and developing a
believe in, have strengthened. Here, in this recap of our
group of core educators.
meeting, is an example of this very commitment.
Mentorship and education go hand-in-hand. There was a lot of
It is the mission of the VNLA to help strengthen and support
interest and discussion around making more educational
the horticulture industry of Vermont. We can make a
opportunities available. Expanding the VNLA website’s
difference. We proved at our January Strategic Planning
business resources was among them, as well as programming
Meeting that we are a dedicated, inspired, committed,
on recruitment and encouraging members to participate in
hardworking bunch! We are also faced with some challenges.
VNLA committees.
In an effort to tackle these challenges and strategize about
ways forward, a group of 27 members, representing a wide
Discussion also included streamlining the application process,
range of sectors, met in a day long brainstorming session.
perhaps incorporating various ways for renewal or offering
automatic renewal options.
The objective was clear: To address the challenges and
obstacles related to VNLA membership and leadership.
All of these methodologies offer ways to enhance and grow our
membership, as well as build on efforts to identify and foster
The result: A Work Plan identifying the key issues discussed,
leadership. The Work Plan has assigned tasks to the various
strategies for implementation and leaders assigned to the tasks.
committees for development. And now, it’s time to get to
The intention of this Work Plan is to serve as a reference. It is a
work!
working document that allows us to better manage and assign
tasks.
Thanks to ALL who participated and to EVERYONE for your
continued support of the VNLA!! If you are interested in
We deliberately focused on the topics of Membership and
learning more about our efforts or want to be involved in a
Leadership. The VNLA relies on membership support, and in
committee, please let us know!
order to continue to grow and succeed we also must encourage
and foster leadership among the Association.

CONGRATULATIONS!! Participate in the

2020 Industry Awards Program
VNLA Board Member
Elise Schadler and her family
welcomed baby Margo into
their lives on April 3, 2020.

We are overjoyed for them! Start Planning and scope

out your projects!

9
 FULL RANGE OF NURSERY & LANDSCAPE SPRAYERS
COMMERCIAL SKID SPRAYERS THE V SERIES - Great in pickups BACKPACK SPRAYERS
from major brands 6NLGVSUD\HUVLQ JDOORQWDQNVL]HV
3RO\RUVWDLQOHVVVWHHOWDQNVNLGV
s(OHFWULFSRZHUHG
sJDOORQWDQN
s+\GUDXOLFDJLWDWLRQ
s:DONLQJSDFHLQGLFDWRU
s%DWWHU\FKDUJHGLVSOD\

s5LJKWOHIWKDQGRSHUDWLRQ
sJDOORQWDQN
s0HFKDQLFDODJLWDWLRQ
s/DUJHƂOORSHQLQJDQG
GHHSVWUDLQHU
THE ATX SERIES - Ideal for lawn & turf
7UDLOHUVNLGRU37KLWFK$OOPRGHOVLQFOXGHVSUD\JXQ KRVH

Call us for a catalog

800-634-5557
www.oescoinc.com
8 Ashfield Rd. / Rt. 116, P.O. Box 540
Conway, MA 01341

10
 Welcome BACK PAST VNLA/ Three Things to know about Van Berkum Nursery
1) We are passionate about what we grow, from New England
Green Works Members! Woodlanders to Wicked Ruggeds.
2) We specialize in healthy NH grown perennials, personal service,
and extensive plant knowledge.
3) We have friends in low places. (ribbit).
Homestead Landscaping
Tami Blanchard
5 Lower Taylor Hill Road
Bondville, VT 05340
802-297-1107
tami@homesteadlandscaping.com
www.homesteadlandscaping.com
Active Member
Category: Landscape, Install, Maintenance

Tree Protection Services

Brian Beaty
19742 Route 12
Bethel, VT 05032
802-234-6355
brianbeatyarb@gmail.com
www.mytreesmatter.com
Active Member
Van Berkum Nursery • 4 James Road Deerfield, NH 03037
Category: Arborist (603) 463-7663 Fax 7326 • salesdesk@vanberkumnursery.com
LLC

www.vanberkumnursery.com

Cobble Creek Nursery, LLC

W e grow a diverse selection of

B&B trees and shrubs at our
nursery in Monkton, Vermont. We
offer shade trees, ornamental trees,
flowering shrubs and dwarf conifers.
At Cobble Creek Nursery we are known
for quality Vermont Grown plants,
exceptional service and extensive
woody plant knowledge. Stop by for
a visit or give John a call for more
information.

John Padua
991 Tyler Bridge Road, Bristol, VT 05443
phone/fax: 802- 453-3889 / e-mail: cobcreek@gmavt.net

11
 Welcome to NEW VNLA/
Green Works Member!

Thomas Farm & Garden

Martin D. Thomas
535 US Route 302
Berlin, VT 05641
tfg@thomasgrp.org
www.tpmsvt.com
Active Member
Category: Garden Center, Greenhouse
Retail, Landscape/Install/Maintenance,
Nursery Retail, Turf Care, Hardscaping,
Landscape Designer

Get Certified in 2020!

Don’t delay and order
your study manual today!

www.greenworksvermont.org
888.518.6484

12
 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
May 15, 2020
ELA Eco-Restorative Garden
Design Webinar
10:30am - 2:30 pm
https://www.ecolandscaping.org
May 19, 2020
ELA Native Plant Design for Human
Health Webinar
10:30am - 2:30 pm
https://www.ecolandscaping.org
June 23, 2020 -TO BE DETERMINED
VNLA Twilight Gathering @
Vermont Zen Center Garden Tour
6-8pm
Shelburne, VT
https://www.greenworksvermont.org
July 11-14, 2020
Cultivate ’20 VIRTUAL
Greater Columbus Convention Center
Columbus, OH
www.cultivateevent.org
August 3-6, 2020 - POSTPONED
Perennial Plant Association National
Symposium
Lancaster, PA
https://www.perennialplant.org
November 11 - 12, 2020
Northeast Greenhouse Conference
& Expo
Boxboro Regency Hotel
Boxborough, MA
https://www.negreenhouse.org/
13
December 4, 2020
Ecological Plant Conference
Ecological Landscaping Alliance
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Brooklyn, NY
https://www.ecolandscaping.org
December 7 - 11, 2020
NGICP National Green Infrastructure
Certification Program
Round Lake, NY
https://www.ecolandscaping.org
field@horsfordnursery.com
 LEONARD’S CLIPPINGS!
by Dr. Leonard Perry, UVM Horticulture Professor Emeritus

Thanks to those that responded to Bradshaw, Gorres, and Mendez; the

others are instructors. With the
Carolina-Chapel Hill (UNC-CH),
where she rose through the ranks
the VNLA survey you got notices of
recent decision by UVM to offer ONLY from assistant to full professor.
late winter, and that I am assisting
ONLINE courses this summer (as the For the past decade, Dr. Parise has
with on the data and results. I’ll be
end of this Spring semester), some of served as the chair of the
working on these over the coming
these field and hands-on-heavy Department of Biochemistry and
weeks, with a full report hopefully by
courses, or ones with below minimum Biophysics, which currently ranks
summer and article then that you can
enrollments, may not be offered. fifth in the United States for
read here. One interesting fact is the
National Institutes of Health-
number of firms in our Vermont green
In PSS Department and Campus funded biochemistry departments.
industry—over 1,050. The survey
News: She is widely recognized—and
notice was mailed to this entire list,
continuously funded—for
including a database I’d purchased,
• Greenhouse Manager Colleen cardiovascular and cancer
and updated/added to by Kristina with
Armstrong recently retired. research.
a couple other lists including the
Hired as the new manager
Vermont Secretary of State listing, all
beginning March 9 is Derek Allen. • The VT Beekeepers Association
of which was then verified by the
Derek completed his BS in awarded PSS Associate Professor
mailing—any bad addresses returned.
Anthropology at the University of Mark Starrett their "Friend of the
Missouri and his MS in Bees" award, recognizing his
In the last issue of
Environmental Horticulture at the service to the UVM Beekeepers
The Dirt I had a
University of Washington.   He has Club since its inception in 2016.
review of The Tree
worked in private, corporate and
Book, by Dirr and
university horticultural positions • Congrats to PSS Professor and
Warren. What I
in a number of capacities; most Chair Ernesto Mendez,
just learned is that
recently serving as the greenhouse recognized by UC Santa Cruz as a
there is an e-book
manager for the Department of 2020 Distinguished Graduate
version available of
Biology at the University of Student Alumnus.
this too, if the hard
Virginia.  
cover price is too
• Congrats to Julia Callahan,
much for your
• Leslie V. Parise, Ph.D., has Sustainable Landscape
budget (this one is
accepted the offer to be the next Horticulture major who has been
only $20), or you’d just prefer this
dean of the College of Agriculture selected for a paid, full year
format. (www.workman.com/
and Life Sciences (CALS), internship with the Morris
products/the-tree-book-1)
succeeding interim dean Jean Arboretum in Philly, PA.
Harvey. Dr. Parise comes to us
Each semester I give a snapshot of
after a long and successful career
the PSS department focus and
at the University of North
student interest, gleaned from courses
(with numbers of students and
instructor). As of this writing, here’s
what is lined up for summer session:
Herb Growing and Design (14, Perry, UMASS Extension has lots of great
online), Permaculture (1, White), online resources in their Landscape,
Fundamentals of Soil Science (6, Nursery, and Urban forestry program,
Gorres), Introduction to Beekeeping including a regular email update on
(9, Alger), Diversified Farm Operations pests. NEW are short insectXaminer
(7, Bradshaw), Introduction to videos on pests and their life cycles,
Agroecology (6, Mendez). Faculty are great close up video and simple

14
captions (no voice just music), only a
few minutes each. (https://
ag.umass.edu/landscape/education-
events/insectxaminer) .
Getting out in nature (including our
own built nature, aka landscapes and
gardens) has been shown to have
many benefits, something particularly
welcome during our recent stay-at-
home era. But even for those not able
to get out into nature, just viewing it
helps. “Viewing nature is key to
recovering from stress. The response
from looking at greenery causes a
rapid reduction in stress (blood
pressure, muscle tension, pulse rate)
usually within minutes of exposure to
Top: Impact Areas—the Whitman Walker
Healing Garden in No. Virginia from the
naturesacred.org website.
Bottom: “reduced symptoms of burnout noted in
nurses who spent one break a day in a hospital
garden.”
nature and is most obvious when the
body is already stressed. Psycho-
physiological stress recovery theory
was first formulated by Roger Ulrich in
themid-1980s.”
(www.sciencealert.com, 23 March
2016)
Here’s a resource with LOTS more
on how nature (including plants
and activities such as
gardening) restore our health
and unify communities.
(https://naturesacred.org/our-
work/evidence) Much we already
know or seems intuitive to us as
professionals, but the articles and
studies here may reinforce this,
and some of the facts prove useful
to your customers and clients. day
in a hospital garden”)
Now that botanists are revisiting
plant names (taxonomy) using
molecular studies on plant
evolution (phylogeny), some plant
names are changing. A
couple indoor plants I’ve
recently run across in my
plant courses with new
names (as of 2017) are the
Top: Dracaena trifasciata.
snake plant (formerly
Bottom: Curio rowleyanus.
Sansevieria now Dracaena
trifasciata and in the
Asparagus family) and string- “At Garden in the Woods, in eastern
of-pearls (formerly Senecio Massachusetts, you'll experience the
now Curio rowleyanus in the most cultivated end of the spectrum
Aster family). (photos courtesy on a spectacular site—a botanic
Wikipedia). garden showcasing native plants on a
glacial landscape rippling with ravines
Names change, and not just of and ridges. Those who visit the
plants. In case you didn’t catch this seasonal Garden Shop at Nasami
one, New England Wild Flower Farm, in Whately, Massachusetts, will
Society is now Native Plant Trust. find a nursery with expansive views of
“Since their founding in 1900 as the farmland in the Connecticut River
Society for the Protection of Native Valley, part of New England's largest
Plants, they have had four names. In watershed.”
2019 they went to this one that is
better aligned with their mission,
impact...and roots. They will
continue to operate Garden in the
Woods (Sudbury, MA) and Nasami
Farm (Whately, MA just south of
VT). They remain dedicated to
growing pesticide-free native plants
from seed they collect sustainably and
to showing how beautiful they can be
in designed landscapes.” You can
learn lots from visiting these sites in
person (when once again open), their
events and classes (as of this writing
all online, and quite a selection), or
just their website
(www.nativeplanttrust.org).
15
 THE LAB
putting it under the lens . . .

Observations from the UVM Plant Diagnostic Lab:

Rust Diseases in Landscape Plants
by Ann Hazelrigg, Phd.
Rust diseases are caused by a group of highly specialized
fungal pathogens. Their common name is derived from the
powdery rust colored spores produced by the fungus. These
unique fungi can infect a wide range of plants from ferns and
grasses to conifers and deciduous trees. There are over 7,000
species of rust fungi and each species has a very narrow range
of hosts. Some rusts can kill plants, such as wheat stem rust,
but others just reduce plant vigor. Unfortunately, rust diseases
can be quite common in our landscapes.

Most of us are familiar with cedar apple rust

(Gymnosporangium juniper-virginianae), a very common rust
disease on crabapples and apples. There are variations of this
rust including quince rust (G. clavipes) and hawthorn rust (G.
globosum) but all require two hosts to complete their life
cycle; a pomaceous plant (apples, pears, serviceberry,
hawthorn, quince, and crabapples) and a cedar.
Left: Rust gall on eastern red cedar just as the telial spore horns are emerging.
Right: Rust gall on eastern red cedar after spring rain with spore horns fully
emerged. MyIPM Disease App.
The small knotty galls on the cedar are present all winter but as
the weather warms in May, usually when the crabapples are in
bloom, orange jelly-like spore horns develop on the brown
galls. When mature, the horns release spores that are airborne
and blown to an apple host over the course of about a month
until the fruiting bodies die back. The spores can travel at least
5 miles but most land within a few hundred feet. When the
spore infects the apple, it causes bright yellow leaf spots on the
16
Left: Cedar apple rust leaf spots on apple host, George Sundlin, MSU.
Right: Cedar apple rust aecial spore stage on apple leaf underside, MyIPM
Disease App
upper surface. By the end of the summer, another stage of the
disease develops on the leaf undersides with less noticeable
appendages and releases spores that are carried back
to the juniper to complete the lifecycle. In rainy years,
we see a lot of infection from cedar apple rust in our
crabapples and apples that often leads to late summer
defoliation. Management of these rusts with two hosts
is easy-get rid of one of the hosts! Unfortunately, since
the spores can travel great distances, it is not a
practical solution in a neighborhood. I always
recommend pruning apples and crabs so they let in a
lot of light and have good air circulation, reducing the
time the leaves stay wet so infection is reduced.
Protectant fungicides can be used on the apple host
while the spores are being released from the junipers,
usually for about a month or so in May/June. You can
also purchase apples and crabs that are resistant to the
disease.
Turf rust is another common rust disease we see often in the
fall on susceptible grasses. The orange/yellow tinge is
noticeable on the grass from a distance and if you walk through
the wet grass, your shoes and pant legs will be covered in
orange spores. I have seen the disease more in the fall when
the days become cooler and there is a lot of morning dew but it
can appear in midsummer on stressed grass from mowing,
compaction or drought. Although all turfgrass species are
susceptible to rust, it is most commonly seen on perennial
ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass. There is only one grass host
for this rust disease. The disease rarely kills the turf and once
the stress is removed and/or the weather changes and the grass
grows more vigorously, the disease fades out. Fungicides are
rarely warranted.

Blueberry witches broom rust on blueberry. Bruce Watt, UMaine.

There is another rust on balsam fir that causes witches brooms

Yellow-orange, spore-filled pustules cover rust-infected grass blades,
Nick Christians.
Another rust that can be common in our landscapes is fir fern
rust. This two-host rust
causes raised white pustules
on needles of balsam or
other fir species. The spores
from the balsam are
windblown to the fern host.
The fungus can kill needles
and eventually twigs of
balsam fir. To manage, avoid
planting balsams in areas
with poor air drainage. Ferns
can be controlled if they are
not protected species or
fungicides can be used to
protect the fir.
Spruce and/or fir witches
broom are two-host rusts
with chickweed as the
alternate host. The
symptom of this rust
disease is dense branching
in the tree resulting in a
compact ball of twigs. The
rust rarely kills the tree but
can retard growth or cause
breakage due to the weight
of the broom.
on the blueberry alternate host. This rust causes brooms to
form in blueberry, causing leggy spongy bunched stems with
small leaves. On the fir, the symptoms look like those of the
balsam fir fern rust with white fruiting bodies
on the needles, however, the spores in the
blueberry witches broom rust are yellow, as
opposed to white spores in the balsam fir fern
rust. Blueberries and firs should not be planted
with 500 feet of each other. Once infected, the
fungus is systemic within the blueberry host so
removal is the best control.
During the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic, the
UVM Plant Diagnostic Clinic (https://
www.uvm.edu/extension/pdc) will
continue to accept email submissions
Aecia spore stage on balsam fir, Bruce Watt, U of Maine, of photos and questions. Physical
www.bugwood.com.
samples will be limited to those from
commercial growers, Extension
specialists, and UVM researchers
submitted through mail.  If you are
sending a sample, please contact me
first since mail delivery and time in
the lab will be limited. 
ann.hazelrigg@uvm.edu. Thanks for
your understanding.

https://tidcf.nrcan.gc.ca/en/diseases/factsheet/27
17
 Please call the
Commercial Team
for a copy of our
2020 Catalog.

Commercial Division
Brian Mitchell, Chris Remsen & Lezlee Sprenger

Spring/Summer Commercial Hours

Weekdays 7:00am–6:00pm, Sat. 8:00am–5:00pm, Sun. 9:00am–4:00pm

472 Marshall Avenue, Wiliston, VT

802-658-2433 • wholesale@gardeners.com

18
News from the VT Agency of Agriculture, Foods & Markets
By: Judy Rosovsky, VT State Entomologist

VNLA News and Updates April 2020 opportunity to comment can be found on the Federal Register
at http://www.regulations.gov/#!
Spring is usually a season of celebration – having survived the docketDetail;D=APHIS-2019-0049 or go to https://
www.federalregister.gov/, click on Sections on the top left,
winter the birds return, the plants bud, the frogs emerge from
then Business and Industry, and scroll down to Plant Protection
the mud, the black flies gear up for opening day of fishing and
and Quarantine. Comments can be made until June 1, 2020.
people who’ve hunkered down all winter peep out from their
This is a good site to review periodically for other rule changes
down jackets and smile. This year is different and instead of
that may affect farmers and growers.
emerging from our houses, we are confined to them, though for
a good reason. We can still celebrate that spring is here and The Vermont
that social media allows us to have the human contact that we Agency of Natural
are missing elsewhere in our lives. Resources
Department of
Many businesses that would, ahem, crop up, in the spring are
Forests, Parks and
uncertain of what to do because of the coronavirus related
Recreation has
directives. The Agency of Commerce and Community
hired plant
Development site has a FAQ’s page at https://
pathologist
accd.vermont.gov/covid-19-guidance/stay-home-stay-safe-
Savannah Ferreira
business-faqs; and there is sector specific guidance, a North
now that Trish
American Industry Classification System (NAICS) site and the
Hanson has retired.
governor’s original order. The sector to check is “Agriculture Hemlock Woolly Adelgid.
She helped Forest
and Forestry” and Property Management and Landscaping. If
Health Specialist
you can’t decide where your business falls after checking these
Jim Esden and I
resources, try contacting ACCD by submitting a form. The
with the hemlock
guidelines may change as the situation changes, so be sure to
woolly adelgid
continue to check the ACCD site regularly.
(HWA) mortality
Meantime, in Montpelier, the legislature is struggling to find a counts. Mortality
way to conduct its business and stay distant, too. There is hemp was low, with only
legislation pending and we will keep you informed of any 30% mortality in
changes that are approved. our population
samples. HWA
Blueberry and grape growers distribution in VT
can comment on proposed has been confined Elongate Hemlock Scale
changes to blueberry imports to our
from Chile. The European southernmost counties, and has not caused widespread
grapevine moth is a fruit pest hemlock mortality, but if a trend of mild winters continues that
that primarily attacks grapes may change. If you live near a known infested area you might
but consumes other plants too. want to check your hemlocks for HWA and for elongate
To protect the US from hemlock scale.
European grapevine moth,
imported blueberry plants from HWA distribution has expanded in the northeast so check with
Chile had to undergo a methyl your growers before importing hemlock. Remember that
bromide treatment. Two areas European grapevine moth, hemlock from other states must be accompanied by a
in Chile may change to a photo by Jack Kelly Clark, phytosanitary certificate, a copy of which should be sent to me
systems approach instead. University of California, (judy.rosovsky@vermont.gov). All plants being moved in or
Statewide IPM Program.
Details on the existing rule and out of state need a certificate of inspection from the state of
proposed changes and an origin.

19
Former state apiarist David repelling, or mitigating insects
Tremblay retired last year and indoors; or 4) treated article seed.
Brooke Decker has replaced him
The Agency has increased
as the state Pollinator Health
inspections of Vermont
Specialist. The following are
marketplaces to ensure
excerpts from Ms. Decker’s article
compliance with this new
in the VT Spring 2020 Pesticide
requirement. If neonicotinoid
Applicator Report on pollinators,
containing products are found in
Act 35 and neonicotinoids.
a Class B or C Dealer outlet, the
Act 35, an act relating to the outlet and dealer may be subject
regulation of neonicotinoids, was to enforcement actions, including
signed into law in May 2019 and monetary penalties. Specifically
went into effect July 1, 2019. addressed in the law are issues
Sometimes referred to as the facing our most familiar
“Pollinator Protection Law”, this pollinator -the honey bee. By
law has two important points. Honey bee in flight, photo by Pixabay. improving the legislation
First, it restricts homeowner use surrounding the Apiary Program,
of neonicotinoid (neonic) products commonly used outdoors, the Pollinator Health Specialist will have increased capacity to
by reclassifying them as Class A – Vermont Restricted Use focus on hive inspections, education and outreach around
Pesticide. Second, it enhances pollinator protection, by creating mitigating the pests and diseases that are severely affecting the
a Pollinator Health Specialist position and bolsters legislation honey bee today. Please remember that registration is required
around the Apiary Program within the Agency of Agriculture for every honey bee colony in the state.
Food and Markets.
If you have any questions about pollinators you can reach
As noted earlier, Act 35 classifies neonics as Class A, Restricted Brooke at brooke.decker@vermont.gov. For good resources
Use Pesticides. Included in the restriction are products about pollinators for specific applications, like landscaping or
containing the active ingredient: imidacloprid, nithiazine, tree fruit growing, Cornell has developed some new and well-
acetamiprid, clothianidon, dinotefuran, thiacloprid, and illustrated guides. They can be found at Cornell’s Dyce Lab
thiamethoxam. Exemptions to the law are as follows: 1) pet pollinator page or at this link: https://
care products used for preventing, destroying, repelling, or pollinator.cals.cornell.edu/resources/grower-resources/.
mitigating fleas, mites, ticks, heartworms, or other insects or
Despite the uncertain times please stay well and healthy and
organisms; 2) personal care products used for preventing,
enjoy spring.
destroying, repelling, or mitigating lice or bedbugs; 3) indoor
pest control products used for preventing, destroying,

GROWING FOR OVER 40 YEARS

Phone (207) 499-2994 • Fax (207) 499-2912
sales@piersonnurseries.com • www.piersonnurseries.com
Mailing Address: Physical Address:
24 Buzzell Road 291 Waterhouse Road
Biddeford ME 04005 Dayton ME 04005

CARRYING A FULL LINE OF B&B AND CONTAINER

PLANTS READY TO BE DELIVERED TO YOU
NATIVE PLANTS FERNS & GRASSES
SHADE TREES PERENNIALS
FLOWERING SHRUBS WETLAND PLANTS
EVERGREENS BROADLEAFS

Check our website for our

most recent availability
(password: pni2019)

Or contact our office if you

would like to receive our
weekly availability emails

20
The Sedulous Syrphid Fly: Our Un-Bee-lievable
Beneficials (Part 1)
By: Cheryl Frank-Sullivan & Margaret Skinner, UVM Entomology
Research Lab

Growers and the public are becoming bees. They often hover in one place
for a few seconds as if suspended
more aware of the environmental
before darting away. That’s why they
value of attracting “good bugs”, like
are called a hover fly. They DO NOT
bees and lady beetles, into their
sting or bite. As adults they visit
gardens. In the 2018 Winter issue of
flowers, feeding on nectar and pollen,
“The Dirt”, we reported on our results
and in the process contribute to
using ‘flowering habitat hedges’ to
pollination. The sugary nectar gives
attract beneficials. Some of these are
them energy to fly around and pollen
important native pollinators for crops
provides them with nutrients
and others are natural enemies that
essential for reproduction. The larvae
feed on pests like aphids and spider
have chewing mouth parts and are
mites. Some are both, acting as pest-
predators soft-bodied pest insect
fighting pollinators. Nurturing these
pests like aphids, plant bugs and small
beneficials by providing enticing
caterpillars. Therefore, they are
habitat contributes to combating pest
valuable natural enemies.
populations, provides a beautiful
landscape and minimizes or
Flies (order Diptera) come in many
eliminates the need for chemical
shapes, sizes and colors, but one
pesticides. We work with growers Syrphid fly adult version visits and Indian Blanket flower characteristic all adult flies share is
statewide to establish habitat hedges in a habitat hedge. they have one pair of wings. There are
to encourage beneficials. These hedges
over 120,000 uniquely different fly
consist of a variety of annuals,
species worldwide. While lots of flies
including alyssum, coreopsis, blue
are considered a nuisance or are
cornflower, Indian blanket, cosmos,
medical pests, such as houseflies and
sunflowers and zinnias. The hedges
mosquitoes, others are valuable
provide a diversity of floral shapes,
beneficials. Hover flies provide
sizes and heights throughout the
important services including
season. To truly appreciate the value
pollination, pest management and
of these hedges, growers should be
breaking down organic matter. There
able to recognize the beneficials
are over 9,000 species of hover flies,
visiting their flowers, and distinguish
900 different species in North
them from pests. In a series we call
America, each fitting into its unique
“Our Un-Bee-lievable Beneficials”, Hover fly egg. niche in the environment. They vary
we will highlight particular natural
greatly in size and color among
enemies in the coming year that you
species, ranging from 1/4 to 3/4
are likely to see on your flowers. We
inches long and coming in different
will provide descriptions of their life
shades of yellow, brown and green.
stages and what they do. We hope this
Adults mimic bees or wasps to ward
will encourage you go expand your
off their predators. Once you get to
Un-bee-lievable habitats in the future.
know what they look like you will be
amazed how common they are in your
For this issue we are featuring the
garden flowers.
sedulous (industrious) syrphid fly
(family Syrphidae) (Fig. 1), also known
Adults lay eggs that look like a small
as the hover or flower fly. These are Hover fly larva. grain of rice. These are laid in the
those flies you might mistake for honey

21
vicinity of aphids or other larval hosts (Fig. 2). Larvae hatch
into fleshy maggots with no legs. They can be seen on the
undersides of leaves where aphids are feeding. They are
usually yellowish or tan, with a narrow black strip down their
back (Fig. 3). They go through several stages (instars), each
time getting a little larger. They then pupate within a brown
pupal case either on the plant or on the soil. Depending on
the species and geographic location, several generations can
occur each year.

Calligrapher flies (Fig. 4) such as the Eastern (Toxomerus

geminatus) and margined (Toxomerus marginatus) adults are
often seen visiting flowering plants from spring time through
the fall, forever feeding on nectar in the flowers and looking
for pests where they will lay their eggs. One larva can eat
several hundred aphids over its life time. Smaller hover fly
species are attracted to smaller flowers, such as alyssum and
herbs such as dill, whereas larger species go for bigger
flowers. That’s why it is good to offer these beneficials a
variety of flowering plants to meet the varied needs of
different species. Calligrapher fly on Alyssum.

Another hover fly you might commonly see, esp. in late

summer, is the drone fly, Eristalis tenax (Fig. 5). Adults look
just like honey bees. Their larvae, called rat-tailed maggots,
live by decaying organic material or carcasses in moist
environments where they feed and help with the natural
decomposition process. Some species are filter feeders
cleaning up aquatic habitats while others can feed on bulbs
and are a pest.
This summer, take some time to take a closer look at the
flying visitors coming to your plants. Is it a bee or fly? Why is
it here and what is it doing? Consider designating a space for
a small habitat hedge and help protect bees and pest-fighting
pollinators. And stay tuned for the next edition of “Our Un-
Bee-lievable Beneficials”.

Dr. Margaret Skinner is the UVM Extension Entomologist and

Research Associate Professor. Cheryl Frank Sullivan is an
Entomologist & PhD Candidate. Together, they provide
extension outreach to growers and landscapers and conduct
research on IPM focusing on biological control. Businesses
interested in establishing a habitat hedge tailored to their
commercial operation should contact Cheryl Frank Sullivan at
cfrank@uvm.edu 802-656-5434. More information on Univ. of
VT, Entomology Research Laboratory cab be found at https://
www.uvm.edu/~entlab/ .
Drone fly adult.
This work is supported with funds from the VT Nursery &
Landscape Association/Green Works, the USDA Crop Protection
& Pest Management Program, National Institute of Food &
Agriculture and Univ. of Vermont Extension.

22
UMASS Extension Begins Insect Video Series
Now you can examine the wonderful world of insects via a
video series launches by UMASS Extension. The
InsectXaminer short video series hopes to increase the
visibility of the beautiful world of insects, even those we
consider to be pests in our managed landscapes.

InsectXaminer will showcase the complexity of insect life

cycles, cataloging as many life stages for each species as
possible. The goal of this series is to provide professionals and Watch Episode 1 now and
land managers with footage that is helpful for learning the learn everything there is to
identification of insects throughout the season, rather than at know about the Gypsy Moth
any single point in their life cycle. Proper identification is key life cycle and pathogens.
to successful management. If possible and caught on camera, Please follow this link:
important aspects of their biology and natural enemies will be https://ag.umass.edu/
revealed. landscape/education-events/
insectxaminer.
Join UMass Extension as they observe these incredible
organisms and look into a world that, while it happens all
around us, sometimes goes unseen! 

23
 THE IDEA FACTORY
tips & trends, food for thought…

Nature’s Best Hope TickTalk with TickReport

A New Approach to Conservation Webinar Series
that Starts in Your Yard A FREE series brought to you by the UMass
Laboratory of Medical Zoology and
by Douglas W. Tallamy UMass Extension

TickTalk with TickReport is back for 2020! Each

A New York Times Bestseller month you will hear from Dr. Stephen Rich and
the Laboratory of Medical Zoology (LMZ).
Douglas W. Tallamy’s first TickTalk in 2020 will also feature exciting guest
book, Bringing Nature speakers on tick topics that viewers said were
Home, awakened important to THEM. The series will include
thousands of readers to an seasonality and life stages of ticks (key to
urgent situation: wildlife planning intervention and prevention), emerging
populations are in decline or invasive tick species, how ticks use vegetation
because the native plants and leaf litter throughout their life cycle,
they depend on are fast increasing fears of Alpha-gal allergies (allergies
disappearing. His solution? to certain meat and animal-related products),
Plant more natives. In this dispelling myths of tick control, and many more.
Mosquito concerns, including life cycle, behavior,
new book, Tallamy takes the
and EEE infection, will also be addressed and Dr.
next step and outlines his
Rich will discuss the tens of thousands of
vision for a grassroots
mosquitoes the LMZ tests each year for a range
approach to conservation. Nature’s Best Hope of viruses. Tune in the 2nd Wednesday of the
shows how homeowners everywhere can turn month!  Pre-registration is required to access the
their yards into conservation corridors that provide webinars. To be notified of upcoming webinar
wildlife habitats. Because this approach relies on dates and topics, join our e-mail list at: https://
the initiatives of private individuals, it is immune ag.umass.edu/landscape/email-list .
from the whims of government policy. Even more
important, it’s practical, effective, and easy—you
will walk away with specific suggestions you can
incorporate into your own yard. Vermont’s 3 year average incidence
  rate for Lyme disease is the second
If you’re concerned about doing something good highest in the USA and the rate of
for the environment, Nature’s Best Hope is the tickborne diseases in VT is increasing.
blueprint you need. By acting now, you can help
preserve our precious wildlife—and the planet— VT Resources:
for future generations. www.vtlyme.org
https://www.healthvermont.gov/disease-
Reprinted from: https://www.workman.com/ control/tickborne-diseases/information-
products/natures-best-hope ticks-vermont

24
 In Case You Missed IT! Sign Up for Hort Notes

Hort Notes is a commercial horticulture newsletter

New England Greenhouse for landscapers, arborists, garden centers, turfgrass
Floriculture Guides managers, and property owners authored by
UMASS Extension, the Landscape, Nursery and
Urban Forestry Program.
Copies of the 2019-2020 edition of the New
England Greenhouse Floriculture Guides are For 28 years, Hort Notes has provided timely, research-
available for purchase online through the based information to Green Industry professionals on the
Northeast Greenhouse Conference latest control strategies for insects and diseases of woody
ornamentals, as well as weed management, alerts about
website. current pest outbreaks, and educational opportunities.

This is a 250 page publication also referred In 2020, UMASS combined their Hort Notes newsletter with
to as the “Pest Management Guide” which Clippings from the Garden, which is written for
includes management tips for insects, landscapers, grounds managers, arborists, and other
green industry professionals with the understanding that
diseases, weeds, and growth regulators. home gardeners may also look to this publication for
information as well. This newsletter includes monthly
You can purchase the guide here: email alerts for emerging landscape insect and disease
problems while providing timely Integrated Pest
Management strategies. It will emphasize timely plant
https://www.negreenhouse.org/pest- health care practices and problem-solving information.
guides.html To sign up visit: www.ag.umass.edu.

N ortrthern
hern
N urseries
A Division of The Robert Baker Companies

Wholesale Horticultural Distribution Centers

!"Quality Plant Material !"Complete Selection of Hardgoods !"Stone Products & Stone Display
!"Landscape Lighting & Water Garden Supplies !"Spyder Delivery !"Competitive Pricing

2234 N Hartland Rd., White River Jct., VT Phone: (802) 295-2117 Fax: (802) 295-4889
Member of VAPH
VNLA w w w. n o r t h e r n n u r s e r i e s . c o m Manager: Mike Trombly Sales: Dana Spaulding

25
Pink Ribbons and White Lace
By: Judith Irven, VCH; Photographs: Dick Conrad
A Designer’s Notebook - No matter how long
the Winter, Spring is sure to follow.
And right now, spring—that most
fleeting of seasons—is working its
magic in Vermont.
All around in gardens everywhere,
we see the thousands of cheery
yellow daffodils spreading their
message of hope.
I would also like to tell you about
two delightful small trees, adorned
in their pink and white spring
attire, like ‘Pink Ribbons and
White Lace’ that also proclaim
spring’s arrival.
Pink Ribbons
It is now about seven years since I
first saw the most beautiful
diminutive tree that was
completely smothered in pink
ribbons. I was heading over the
new (at the time) Cross Street
bridge in Middlebury, and there it
was, nestled into the corner of the
building that is home to the
lawyers Neuse, Duprey and
Putnam.
In my usual scramble to make a
mid-afternoon appointment I was
fully focused on my driving. And,
suddenly I caught sight of it!
Unable to stop my car in the
traffic, I went on my way. But I
returned a couple of hours later,
found a nearby parking spot and
walked back to admire this
beautiful sight up close.
And now, every year, towards the
end of April, I make a special
point of coming that way into
Middlebury so that I can enjoy it
once again. And I am happy to
tell you that this year, right on
schedule, (on April 27 to be precise) it was just starting to
bloom.
It is a ‘Leonard Messel’ Magnolia—and a magnolia growing in
Vermont may feel almost too good to be true.  Magnolias seem
more reminiscent of stately southern homes than a small New
England town.
I admired the way in which the
gardener had chosen an exemplary
spot for this delicate tree, cradling
it in the southwest facing angle of
the house, but far enough out from
the corner so that it would have
room to grow into its natural
shape. In this spot it was also
protected from a chance late frost
and chilling winds.  Remember, in
last week of April, we had snow up
here in the mountains!!
Furthermore the dark slate-blue
color of the building makes the
ideal foil for the effervescent pink
flowers. It is indeed ‘picture
perfect’.
Pink ribbons - the flowers of Leonard Messel Magnolia What is a 'Leonard Messel'
Magnolia?
It is one of several cultivars
known collectively as Loebner
Magnolias, created about 100
years ago by the German
hybridizer Max Loebner, who
experimented with crossing the
Kobus Magnolia (Magnolia kobus)
and the Star Magnolia, (Magnolia
stellata) both native to Japan.
Most Loebner hybrids are slow-
growing small trees which are
perfectly at home in suburban
gardens and, if carefully sited, will
usually flower even in colder
climates. It is claimed they are
hardy in zone 4, but with the
obvious proviso that, if we have a
late cold snap, the fat emerging
buds will be damaged, resulting in
a flowerless year.
However the Leonard Messel
hybrid, the result of yet more
Leonard Messel, the perfect magnolia, blooms on Cross breeding in the beautiful gardens
of Nymans in Sussex, England,
produces its buds a week or so later than the others, thereby
dodging most late frosts.
26
Many Loebner cultivars, including 'Merriill' and 'Ballerina', have planted along the edge of the woods as a gentle transition
inherited the familiar white flowers of the parent Star between the cultivated garden and the wild beyond.
Magnolia, which you A Plant with Many
also see growing in Names
Vermont. But my heart
is won by ‘Leonard Serviceberries belong
Messel’, with its frothy to the genus
pink ribbons so Amelanchier (part of
reminiscent of the the large Rose family)
huge Saucer magnolias and actually have
that grace the stately several common
homes of the south. names, all with
interesting origins:
So now every year, I
make a point of The name
returning to see that ‘Serviceberry’ comes
very special tree on because in New
Cross Street in England they flower
Middlebury for a when burial services
repeat of the spring can now be held for
magic. people who died over
the previous winter
White Lace when the ground was
Above: Serviceberries blooming in Judith and Dick’s garden.
Serviceberries are Below: In the wild, a Serviceberry in full bloom at the edge of the woods. too hard for the
beautiful little trees families to dig their
that flourish along graves.
the hedgerows on the They are called
back-country roads Shad, or sometimes
of New England.  For Shadbush, because
most of the year they they flower when the
are completely shad fish come up
anonymous. But the rivers to spawn.
then, one spring
morning, almost like And finally they are
magic they burst out known as Juneberries
of the shadows to because their edible
cover themselves fruit ripens in June.
with delicate white Harvest the fruit for
flowers like white pies or for a fruit
lace! sauce over a nice
yogurt. But hurry:
Around here the you will be
serviceberries bloom competing with the
before the tall forest cedar-waxwings, who
trees leaf out. So it is an unforgettable sight on a misty adore these blueberry-sized fruits.
morning, looking down our winding country road, to see their
lacy white veil peeking out from under the still bare canopy of Use whichever name you like they all refer to the genus
maple and ash. Amelanchier!

Serviceberries in our Gardens Within the Amelanchier genus there are actually several species
which can be somewhat difficult to tell apart and which also
With their delicate white flowers in springtime, as well as a cross-fertilize easily. Two species, both native to New England,
lovely red color in the fall, serviceberries make delightful the Allegheny Serviceberry (Amelanchier laevis) and the Downy
native trees for our gardens.  Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea), are small slender trees
And since they tolerate shade and remain relatively small, they growing between 15 and 35 feet high when mature.
are the perfect choice for those difficult shady spots, such as The Shadblow serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) is shaped
near the northern side of the house.  I also love to see them more like a large shrub and matures at just 12 feet high and

27
wide. And finally the Western Serviceberry (Amelanchier But, unlike the young poet, I do not have fifty more springs to
alnifolia) is a 10 foot high shrub that is grown commercially for enjoy. So I will live in the present and make the most of each
its fruit. and every spring as it is given to me. And each spring I cherish
the beauty of our New England serviceberry, when it too is hung
In addition to these species, there are several hybridized
with snow’.
varieties including Amelanchier Autumn Brilliance for a nice fall
color andAmelanchier x grandiflora which has larger flowers.
Loveliest of Trees
Every spring, as I greet the flowering of our own native
serviceberries in the woods around here, A.E.Houseman’s
famous poem about the wild cherry trees, which bloom in the
England around mid-April, still runs through my head: Together Judith Irven and her husband,
Dick Conrad, nurture a large garden in
Loveliest of trees, the cherry now
Goshen, VT. Judith is a landscape
Is hung with bloom along the bough,
designer and VT Certified Horticulturist.
And stands about the woodland ride She also teaches Sustainable Home
Wearing white for Eastertide. Landscaping for the UVM Master
Now of my threescore years and ten, Gardener Program. She writes about her
Twenty will not come again, VT gardening life at
And take from seventy springs a score, www.northcountryreflections.com.
It only leaves me fifty more. You can reach Judith at
And since to look at things in bloom judithirven@gmail.com.
Fifty springs are little room,
About the woodlands I will go
To see the cherry hung with snow.
A.E. HOUSEMAN

Specializing in Vermont Grown Plants

A Claussen tradition since 1972

Claussen's Greenhouse offers an extensive selection of plants, including annuals, perennials, herbs,
vegetables, chrysanthemums, poinsettias, spring bulbs, tropical houseplants and much more.
187 Main Street, Colchester, VT 05446 ~ (802) 878-2361 ~ WWW.CLAUSSENS.COM

28
 STRICTLY BUSINESS
no kidding …

COVID-19 Drives New and Nimble Strategies

by Jacki Hart

We have landed in a business

professionals
strange place. A spring
informed and
where there exists fear,
moving forward
confusion, hesitation,
through
stop-work orders, fines,
unprecedented
tension, polarized
stress and
debates, newly laid off
disruption.
staff, business cash flow
Companies across
that’s on fumes, mixed
this Province have
messages to customers
been forced to re-
and parents learning to
think, tighten up,
home-school on a
and show empathy.
moments notice. 
Last month I was
The past 6 weeks for me
asked by the
has been filled with
Nursery and
dozens of hours every
Landscape Association Executives of North America to
week working with business owners to CTRL>ALT>DEL on ‘the
moderate two webinars with 4 of my professional business
plan that was’ and helping them to pivot to something else,
coach peers – Mark Bradley of LMN, Jim Paluch of JP Horizons,
something surreal and completely different. Finding calm and
Phil Harwood of Grow The Bench and Jeffrey Scott of Jeffrey
purposeful intention amid chaos and fear is hard work. Way
Scott Consulting. It was absolutely great, with over 650
harder than being in the customary slip stream of long spring
professionals both north and south of the border, coast to
hours and frenetic days. And being intentional about emerging
coast. We talked about ‘what to do’, and ‘how to think’ through
from the COVID-19 era able to look back proud of how we
this crisis. I wanted to share with you here, the advice I offered
handled ourselves, our team our business viability and our
in that webinar – as a way to help you to keep moving forward.
brand is the key goal at the moment.
1. Be Conscious Of Your Mindset. Judgement keeps us
There are silver linings tangled in between the unanticipated
stuck. Acceptance moves us forward. Find the courage and
conversations with staff, suppliers, customers and creditors.
resolve to accept that we are in an unprecedented situation.
Silver linings that have emerged in ways least expected. There’s
There’s no manual for this. (Yet.) And you’re going to have to
time for your own professional development, and your teams’
think differently about your business than ever before, to create
like never before. It’s also a great time to connect with business
new solutions and efficiencies that align with current reality. It
groups and business communities. For example, I started twice-
might not be pretty, and you need to build your own bridge to
weekly Zoom chats with hundreds of entrepreneurs who belong
success while you’re walking across it - in the weeks and
in a Peer Network I facilitate – to offer resources, mentoring,
months ahead. Breathe. Focus. Grow Forward. Even if it seems
hope, and connectedness during which all have found comfort
counter-intuitive, you’ve GOT this.
that their not alone finding their way through COVID-19.
Giving members a place to share frustration and solutions has
2. Manage Your Stress Level. Make the time to unplug every
been an important part of helping them to regain their
week. Go outside. Have some fun. Decompress. You can’t lead
momentum and focus. And to plant hope.
others, or your company brand, or the company bank account if
you’re overwhelmed. Pay attention to your ‘self-talk’. Don’t
Also, countless volunteers have stepped up, onto committees,
panic. 
Zoom meetings and as speakers on webinars – all to keep

29
3. Focus on what you can Control, and on what you can About the Author: Jacki Hart is
Influence. Give no ‘air-time’ to things you can’t control. president of Consulting by Hart in
Answer three key questions: Ontario, Canada. She is an
entrepreneur, advisor, business
• What (has happened that I didn’t expect)? WRITE IT consultant, and workshop
DOWN. facilitator with a career in the
• So What (does that mean to my business, cash flow, Green Industry spanning 35 years.
team etc)? WRITE IT DOWN. ALL OF IT. Jacki is one of Canada’s first
• Now What (can I leverage and change to adapt and women to hold the North
keep growing forward)? WRITE DOWN EVERY IDEA, American Green Industry
RESOURCE, RELATIONSHIP etc. Devise a framework certificate for business
of a plan – be nimble, be prepared for a few ‘what if’ management excellence. Jacki
scenarios. Focus on Forward-Proofing your business also manages the Prosperity
and community. Program and Peer to Peer
Network for Landscape Ontario.
We are stronger together. Your company is stronger with you
working hard to start with the end in mind: emerging from Jacki writes for other trade
COVID-19 as a viable, stable, efficient company, with an magazines and will be a regular contributor to our business
engaged and grateful team, and a loyal customer base. column. CBH is a consulting firm that “passionately believes that
entrepreneurial success depends on sustained forward momentum
- across all areas of business - both the visible and the invisible. To
learn more about CBH visit www.consultingbyhart.com.

!"#$%"&'()$)**#"+'!"$,'
-./+)0"+)'()$)**#"+'1$/2)$0'
*
'
'
NATURAL FERTILIZERS and SOIL AMENDMENTS '
ENVIRONMENTALLY COMPATIBLE PEST CONTROLS

'
FRUIT and VEGETABLES More info on
LANDSCAPING NORGANICS.COM
NURSERIES or call for the location of your
nearest wholesale distributor
3'4+"567)$$8'9#++':/";'<'!"#$%"&='>?'@ABAB'
ORCHARDS
TREE and TURF CARE ph: 802. 222. 4277 C@DECBFED33A'
and MUCH MORE... email: info@norganics.com
* for a complete list of WSDA & OMRI listed products
please see our website. fax: 802. 222. 9661 G)$)**#"+%"$,H0I$%J+/7"+K*)L'
30
 New Member Profile:
Flying Mammoths Landscape Design
We asked new member Flying Mammoths Landscape Design
to introduce her business via a member questionnaire we
sent to her. Please meet Lizabeth Moniz below and we
welcome her to the VNLA!
Lizabeth Moniz is the owner of and the
principal designer at Flying Mammoths
Landscape Design. The business is based
out of central Vermont and has been
working with clients since 2004. Flying
Mammoths is a small landscape design
company that specializes in native and
edible plants.
Lizabeth holds a MA in Landscape Design
and Land-use Planning from the Conway
School of Landscape Design. She has also
been a carpenter for
many years, so
understanding how
the built
environment
interacts with the
landscape gives the
company more
understanding of a
site, and a broader
picture of how to
make both landscape
and structure work
together and
complement each
other.
There is quite a diversity in the projects Flying Mammoths
Landscape Design has taken on. Examples include, complete
site designs and implementation plans such as a co-housing
project in southern Vermont, pre-purchase site analysis for
clients that are looking at land, erosion mitigation and
controlled water flow on a farm in Costa Rica, a landscape
design for a commercial restaurant in Burlington, pollinator
gardens, once, yearly, or as needed on-site consultations,
planting plans specific to a certain site, homestead, garden,
and orchard design.
The most rewarding aspect of working with clients is to show
them the possibilities and options that they have to create
31
the landscape that they have envisioned, one that works for
their needs, one that they can be drawn out into and engage
with. It is very important to educate my clients during every
aspect of the design, from beginning to end. When walking
with clients, I love pointing out things on
their land that maybe they have never
noticed such as different plants, how water
runs across and through the landscape
seasonally, just giving fresh eyes to their
property and getting them excited for
either their future plans or just new
perspective, continually striving to help
them create their paradise
My favorite plants seem to vary from
season to season usually according to when
I see them. Just recently on a woodland
jaunt, I came across
a Trailing Arbutus,
so beautiful and
unassuming. I look
forward to catching
the fleeting flowers
of the Beaked
Hazelnut. Then it’s
the spring
ephemerals,
Virginia Bluebells,
Hepatica, Blue
Cohosh, Juneberry,
the various
viburnums, onto the
summer
powerhouse of color
with Butterfly Weed and the sweet smells of Clethra. Later
summer some of my favorites are Cardinal Flower, calling in
the hummingbirds, and New York Ironweed, tall and
statuesque. Then the Winterberry and Staghorn Sumac to
add color and bring us through the winter.
Being a new member of VNLA, I still have so many members
to meet, network and laugh with, talk plants with and learn
from. In my down time, I enjoy hiking, paddling, sitting in
nature and observing, digging in my gardens, or body-surfing
in warm oceans.
 THE PLANT LOUNGE
wiry stems, hairy leaves and bodacious blooms. . .

Maackia amurensis: Amur maackia

by Mark Dwyer, Landscape Prescriptions MD

Over 15 years ago I naturalist and explorer,

Karlovich (Richard) Maack
planted my first Amur
(1825-1886). The specific
maackia (Maackia
epithet comes from the
amurensis) at Rotary
region in which it is found.
Botanical Gardens
Maackia amurensis was
(Janesville, WI) simply
introduced in to
because it was new to me.
cultivation in 1864. There
Over years of observation
are 12 species of Maackia
and appreciation, I realized
distributed throughout
this tree was not only
eastern Asia with six
tough and durable but
species endemic to China.
quite striking in the
The dark colored wood of
landscape for many
Amur maackia is quite
reasons described further
hard and rot resistant and
in this article. This
has long use in fencing
specimen was placed in a
material, tool handles and
brutal location with poor
utensils in its native region
soils and no supplemental
and beyond.
irrigation or watering (ever). It not only
survived; it thrived! The broad range of
Like other plants in the Fabaceae family,
hardiness (USDA z3-7) coupled with an
Amur maackia can fix atmospheric
impressive adaptability to a wide range of
nitrogen through a symbiosis with root
soils makes this smaller tree worthy of
bacteria called rhizobia. This species is
more weighty consideration and focused
tolerant of drought and both acidic and
inclusion in our landscapes.
alkaline soils. Tolerating periodically wet
soils, this tree is not ideally suited for
Native to the Amur river region which
poorly drained soil or prolonged standing
includes portions of Russia and Eastern
water. While preferring full sun, Amur
Asia (Manchuria to Korea), this member of
maackia can also tolerate part shade and
the Fabaceae (legume) family will typically
has no serious insect or disease problems.
reach a height of 20’-30’ with a similar
The species is becoming more popular as a
width on a clean, attractive, rounded form.
street tree due to its ability to tolerate dry,
In the wild, specimens over 40’ tall have
poor soils and harsh cold. The slow growth
been observed although the growth rate of
rate coupled with medium height at
this species is consistently described as
maturity are factors that may be favorable
slow. This tree is a close relative of
in select urban situations. Excessive exposure to salt should
yellowwood (Cladrastis sp.) and has been called Asiatic
also be avoided although specimens used along streets seem to
yellowwood as well. Other related trees in this family include
accept average salting effects in the winter with little impact or
redbud (Cercis), black locust (Robinia) and honey locust
difficulty.
(Gleditsia). The genus Maackia is named after Russian

32
The leaves of this plant emerge amurensis ‘JFS-Schichtel1’)
in early spring with a silver- which is touted as the most
green appearance due to the vigorous selection they’ve
fuzzy underside of the odd- seen. This selection is a bit
pinnately, compound leaves more upright and vase-shaped
(7-11 elliptical leaflets) seen as in habit with mature height of
they unfold. These young, 30’ and width of 22’. The
silvery, downy leaves are quite University of Minnesota
noticeable and ornamental. As introduced the Summertime™
the foliage fills out, the leaves maackia (Maackia amurensis
then take on a dusky, olive- ‘Summertime’) as a more
green summer appearance compact and rounded form
which contributes to the reaching 18-20’ tall at maturity
medium-fine texture of the with a width of 12-15’.
tree. Fall color is non-existent Occasionally available
to minimal. Significant white although still quite uncommon
flowers with a faint blue tinge in cultivation is Maackia
appear in late June and early amurensis var. buergeri from
July and last for a couple weeks Manchuria which is thought to
before fading to a brown. have an increased hardiness
These erect, spike-like flowers although with features
(panicled racemes) are quite consistent to that of the
showy and slightly fragrant. straight species.
The fragrance is described as
freshly mown grass or alfalfa. The list of extremely hardy,
The fruiting structure is a flat “tough as nails” trees with few
pod similar to what is problems and wide
observed on a redbud (Cercis adaptability is quite short.
sp.). What I grew to appreciate Amur maackia (Maackia
about this small tree in time amurensis) should be on this
was the increasingly beautiful, short list as the combination
coppery bronze bark. of toughness and beauty of
Exfoliating with age into loose this tree, coupled with exciting
flakes and curls, the primary potential for use in our urban
trunk initially gets interesting areas, makes this a selection to
“diamond” patterns and the know and grow!
glossiness of both trunk and
larger branches is conspicuous
throughout the season. The
contribution of ornamental
bark only increases with age
and is most conspicuous in the
dormant season.

Propagated by seed (research the soaking and scarification
requirements) or softwood cuttings, this tree is not quick to
establish but once settled in the landscape, is a reliable
grower. Two selections, aside from the straight species, are
available out in the trade and both are also promoted as
extremely hardy to z3. From J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co.
(Oregon) comes the MaacNificent® maackia (Maackia
MARK DWYER was the Director of
Horticulture at Rotary Botanic Gardens in
Janesville, WI for 21 years. He has degrees in
landscape architecture and urban forestry and
now operates a private consulting practice,
Landscape Prescriptions, MD. Visit:
www.landscapeprescriptionsmd.com.

33
 A Professional Association for
Green Works’ mission is to support and strengthen the
Growers, Retailers, Garden Centers, Nurserymen
horticulture industry
and Women, Landscapeof Vermont by Contractors,
Designers and creating greater
awareness of the benefits
Landscape of landscaping
Architects, Maintenance Experts,and promoting
Arborists, Turf Specialists, Industry Representatives,
PO Box 92, N. Ferrisburgh, VT 05473 the professional services and products of our members.
P: 802.425.5117 | F: 802.425.5122 Allied Trades People, Students, and Educators.
E: kristina@greenworksvermont.org
34
www.greenworksvermont.org visit us atwww.greenworksvermont.org
www.greenworksvermont.org