hortwest_2007-11

B . C . L A N D S C A P E & N U R S E R Y A S S O C I A T I O N P U B L I C A T I O N • N O V E M B E R 2 0 0 7

3BCLNA BoardHighlights

4Landscape & Retail News

9Communities in Bloom

11BCLNA News Bulletins

13BCMAL Report

14Warming Winter Sales

By Brian Minter

The 50th IGCA Congress in Vancouver isoff to a great start, having received 74registrations in South Africa toward the300 delegate goal. This was due, in part,to a trip for two across Canada by rail,courtesy of Via Rail, which was used asincentive to register (a big thanks to Karland Valerie Stenson of Sheridan Nurseriesfor securing this trip) and the energeticcontingent of Canadian ambassadors whohelp to sell the event.

Nevertheless, the South African Congresswill be a hard one to match. Over the six-day event we were treated to some amazingretail concepts. We began in Cape Town,visiting garden centres with phenomenalmerchandising and use of water features,

and one—Cape Garden Centre—thathosted children’s birthday parties in itspalatial play-park. Between retailers, wetoured Kirstenbosch National BotanicalGarden, renowned for showcasing onlynative plants, among them the bestcollection of proteas in the world.

After a short flight to Johannesburg, wewere shown the rapidly-growing BuildersWarehouse chain; refreshingly, itincluded high quality plants and displays,and comparable pricing to other gardenstores. Several garden centres on the tourwere used as anchors for other boutiques,concessions, restaurants, and comple-mentary businesses. Garden Shop…Just AddWater was located in and around a mall,

South Africa Shares the Ultimate inGarden Retailing

Garden Shop... Just Add Water entwines merchandise displays with sleek landscaping. This retailer’s nursery fills a courtyard surrounded by restaurants and whimsical shops.

continued on page 7

HortWestNov07 11/14/07 1:13 PM

2

Message from the President

As I write thismessage, a thunder-storm pelts rain at mywindow. It’s unusualfor early fall.The normwould be crisp morn-ings and sunny skies.It is obvious thatboth the world and

the weather have changed, and this got methinking about how our association has too.

In the past, associations were predominantlyrun by the passion of volunteers. As colleaguesand friends, members made time to lunch orhave coffee together regularly. Some even wenton sales trips together, sharing knowledge andexpenses. Members’ social lives were centeredon association functions, and a new suit and partydress were in order for the big events of the year.

Life has changed and time is scarce. Womenbuild careers while raising children andmanaging homes. Peak season in businessseems to extend from January to December.Managing more staff and increased competi-tion, requires a great deal of effort to achievea healthy bottom line.

BCLNA, which once relied heavily ongovernment support to fund projects, nowtakes a lead role in new initiatives andrequired staff has grown from three to morethan a dozen people in the last decade.

What has remained constant is the passion ourmembers have, and how vital that passion is tothe BCLNA. Staff work hard to develop frame-works, but they need your guidance and inputto ensure the strategies will accurately reflectthe needs of our membership. Members need

to review drafts of initiatives and ensure they arepractical and produce the desired deliverables.

The BCLNA has many projects in the works.I encourage you to use your passion to provideinput on any of these projects/programs/committees (it doesn’t require a lot of yourtime): certification, public garden shows, tradeshows, environmental stewardship plan, andothers. If you feel changes could be made in aparticular area, please attend a commoditymeeting and you will likely find others whofeel the same way.

NOVEMBER 2007

MANAGING EDITOR Renata Triveri

ADVERTISING Barb NelsonPhone: (604) 574-7772Fax: (604) 574-7773

HortWest is the Newsletter of the B.C.Landscape & Nursery Association for thehorticultural trade in Western Canada. For further information, contact us at:Suite 102, 5783 – 176A StreetSurrey, B.C., Canada V3S 6S6Telephone (604) 574-7772 Fax (604) 574-7773

HortWest is owned by the B.C. Landscape & NurseryAssociation, and is published 10 times a year. Viewsexpressed inside do not necessarily reflect the attitudesof the Association but are those of the writer concerned.Material may not be reprinted from this magazinewithout the consent of the publisher.

All advertising and editorial material are to be receivedone month in advance of mail out date.

HortWest is mailed under Canadian Publications MailProduct Sales Agreement N. 0288608

This magazine is printed in Canada by Globe Printers.

HortWest

Fred Giesbrecht, President,B.C. Landscape & Nursery Association

Passion Remains Despite a Climate of Change

INSTALLATIONSERVICES

Landscape Contractors WantedThe Home Depot is installing residentiallandscapes and is looking for additional

landscape professionals to design and buildlandscapes in Western Canada.

We have great opportunities in Greater Vancouver, Abbotsford, Cranbrook, Kelowna, Kamloops,

Prince George, Vernon, Victoria and West Bank.

If you are interested in finding out moreabout joining the Home Depot landscape

team, please contact:

Lindsay Davidson(604) 463-0075

[email protected]


Awareness President Fred Giesbrechtrepresented BCLNA at the Communitiesin Bloom annual award presentationsin Qualicum, noting that the group is contributing significantly to raisingawareness of horticulture in BC.

Correspondence Letters were sent to:Hon. Pat Bell requesting that BC take over

administration of the CAIS program asOntario has done; Provincial EmergencyProgram (PEP) supporting the appeal ofa member’s flood claim on the basis thatthe PEP valuations are unrealistically low;Hon. Rick Thorpe, Minister of SmallBusiness encouraging his Ministry tocontinue working on a new process foragricultural PST assessments. BC Agri-culture Council and Ducks Unlimitedhave renewed their partnership support-ing Environmental Farm Plans.

Growers The Environmental FarmPlanning program is set to end in December 2007 and the deadline forcost submissions is February 2008.Transition funding will be announcedso the program can continue until therevised EFP begins in fall 2008.

Garden Centres 21 Canadians attendedthe South African IGCA Congress andwere commended for their spirit andenthusiasm. Brian Minter’s presentationfor the September 2008 tour in BritishColumbia resulted in 74 people register-ing to attend.

Interior BCLNA members providedinput into the City of Kelowna’s reviewof their Landscape & Irrigation Standardfor Water Sustainability, first draft. It ispossible that other municipalities willadopt this standard.

Labour Retail clerks have been included as“occupations under pressure” in BC soour retail members can apply for out-of-country workers without having to wait fora lengthy labour opinion prior to hiring.

3

BCLNA Board Highlights

Monday, October 15, 2007


4

Specimen Trees Wholesale Nurseriesgraciously hosted a facility tour andlandscape meeting this fall at their PittMeadows facility.

The main topic of discussion wasPhytophthora ramorum traceouts to land-scape sites, as a number of landscapershave received Canadian Food InspectionAgency (CFIA) notifications that their gar-dens would be investigated for the disease.

The P. ramorum issue affected only theretail and nursery sector until late 2005,when the CFIA began to trace out sales ofpotentially infected plants from nurseriesinto the landscape. Hedy Dyck, who holdsthe P. ramorum file at the BCLNA, review-ed the process of traceouts and how theincrease in the number of host plants hasrequired CFIA to follow up on plants

sales from nurseries several years prior.The process of CFIA investigation, itsauthority, and how to work with investi-gators was reviewed. Hedy also presentedthe P. ramorum Crisis ManagementManual, which outlines the process ofwhat happens when P. ramorum is foundon a site, and how a business owner cancope with the situation. A copy of thismanual is available from the BCLNA toany company where a positive is confirmedby the CFIA.

It was also stressed that P. ramorum is a very difficult disease to diagnose. Its symptoms are like many other typicalplant diseases and the only way it can bedefinitively diagnosed is through DNAtesting. There have been many plantsthat apparently have no symptoms andlook extremely healthy, but have thedisease. Like many plant diseases, thesymptoms often express themselves whenthe plant is under stress from heat, lackof nutrients, over watering, etc.

The BCLNA was instrumental in workingtowards compensation for P. ramorumlosses, including cost of destroyed plantsand reimbursement of destruction costs.However, although compensation isavailable, a key concern was how the land-scaper could best manage the situationto maintain a client. Education and opendialogue are critical, as is the understand-ing that no one is to blame—this is simplya new disease that the CFIA wants to

prevent from getting into our forests.

To maintain a good relationship withyour clients:• Be well versed in the issue. Watch the

“P. ramorum in the Landscape” DVD;contact Hedy Dyck for a copy or toask questions: [email protected].

• Implement as many P. ramorum BestManagement Practices (BMPs) as possibleand explain to your client what you doto protect their property and the environ-ment at large. These BMPs can befound on the BCLNA website under“Current Issues.”

• Provide the client and concernedneighbours with a copy of the noticetitled “CFIA and Landscapers WorkingTogether to protect BC’s Environ-ment” (also found on website under“Current Issues.”)

• Buy plants only from P. ramorumcertified nurseries, and ensure that itdoes not broker plants on their behalffrom a non-certified nursery.

EnvironmentStrategy Underwayfor RetailersBCLNA has contracted the services of Joanne Betzler to coordinate thedevelopment of a retail environmentstrategy. Along with an extensive litera-ture review, garden centres and retailnurseries across the country will besurveyed on topics such as:• actions that could improve their

current environmental practices• expectations from growers regarding

production practices• current actions/programs used to

increase public awareness ofresponsible practices.

A draft action plan with recommendationsis expected to be presented to industry forfeedback and prioritization by early spring.

Landscape & Retail News

Attendees were treated to a hay ride before thelandscape meeting at Specimen Trees in earlyOctober, with Sandy Howkins pointing out theirfavourite new varieties that are ready for market.


NewBCLNA MembersOctober 15, 2007 Board Meeting

F i n a l A p p r o v a l

The BCLNA welcomes the following newmembers:ATD Waste Systems Inc.John Victor Van Slyke, Vancouver,AssociateCharnell Garden ServicesJ. Mark Charnell, Vancouver, Active Landscaper (Interim)Coastal Grounds Maintenance Ltd.Mark Handfield, Nanaimo, Active LandscaperGarden in Gardens Greenhouse Ltd.Ming Wu, Richmond, Active RetailerGolden Spruce NurseriesSharon McGuin, Chilliwack, Active Grower (Interim)Handcrafted Pond & GardenRaymond Lachance, Vancouver, Active LandscaperKatsura Landscaping Ltd.Scott Haile, West Vancouver, Active Landscaper (Interim)Landeca Wendy Kay, Victoria, Active LandscaperPacific Coast TreesDan Anderson, Surrey, Active GrowerSkyline Nursery Stuart Robson/Jonathon Harrison, Chilliwack, Active GrowerUnique Landscapes & IrrigationJason Routley, Kelowna, Active Landscaper (Interim)Geina Fournier Vancouver, Student

T e n t a t i v e A p p r o v a l

The following companies will becomeBCLNA members at the next boardmeeting unless a member provides a validreason for not accepting the application:

Selections Nursery SupplyBruce & Lara Hunter, Surrey, Active Retail (Interim)


Landscape & Retail News

Is your stock of fertilizer and supplementproducts legal? Numerous products onstore shelves have not received approvalby Canadian regulators or do not meetCanadian regulatory standards.These illegalproducts could put your business at risk.

By law, all fertilizer and supplementproducts sold in Canada must be safe,effective, and properly labeled. Manysuppliers take these rules seriously;however, others will sell you unregistered,mislabeled, or illegally imported and re-packaged product.

As a distributor or retailer of theseproducts, you are responsible for ensuringthat what you sell is legal and in compli-ance. In the event that you are found tobe selling non-compliant products, even

unintentionally, a CFIA inspector maydetain that inventory until the problemhas been rectified. This could mean that: a) you will have to carry the product

until next season; b) the inventory of illegal products

could be worthless if the manufac-turer does not resolve the problem;

c) you may be responsible for makingcorrective actions and assuming 100%of the costs; or

d) you could be fined tens of thousandsof dollars depending on the severityof the offence.

The severity of the infraction normallydepends on the potential harm that theproduct could create for humans or theenvironment, the level of intent, andyour history on similar infractions.

Products regulated by the CFIA include:• moisture retention products• wetting agents• inoculants• fertilizers (including fertilizer-pesti-

cides and micronutrient fertilizers)• composts• plant growth regulators.

How can you find out if the products youhandle are in compliance with the Ferti-lizers Act and Regulations? Here are sometips to help.• Be proactive in verifying the product’s

registration. In cases where the productrequires registration, look for the regis-tration number on the label.

• You can request a list of registeredproducts directly from the CFIA bycalling (613) 221-7519.

• In cases where the product is exemptfrom registration ask your supplierwhether the label has been approvedby the CFIA; they must still meet safety,efficacy, and labeling standards.

• Ask your supplier if unregisteredproducts have been assessed by the CFIAor ask them to demonstrate that theirproduct meets Canadian FertilizersAct and Regulations.

What should you do if you identifyillegal or non-compliant products inyour inventory?• Contact your supplier and request that

they bring their product in to compli-ance and refuse to carry any more untilit is brought into compliance.

• Seek out suppliers who will provideproducts that are in compliance.

• Share the information with colleaguesin your organization and across yourindustry so that the entire industry canwork towards achieving compliance.

• Contact the CFIA Fertilizer Section’sClient Services Administrator at (613) 221-7519 to report the non-compliance.

For more information visit www.cfpf-fcpf.ca/. ■

6

Taking Stock— Legal or Illegal?


and the company created a warm, cottage-garden atmosphere within the shoppingcentre. Another, Flora Farm, included awellness centre/spa and wholesale show-rooms for Christmas, floral and containerimports. Lifestyle Home Garden com-bined a horticultural college and a giganticDIY hardware division, shops and top-of-the-line restaurants with its plantselections, and was the only garden center

with a two level parkade. Its recent reno-vations, following a devastating fire,have included state-of-the-art waterand energy conservation elements.Topping off these unusual businesseswas Safari Garden Center, with a hugestone chapel, fabulous restaurants andbars, and water features that are out ofthis world. Gardening was a sideline to its wedding and corporate events.

It was a real treat to see such diverse,innovative and visionary garden stores.The South Africans brilliantly blendedtheir history, culture and music, addingincredible value, and throwing down thegauntlet for future garden center congres-ses. It’s our turn next September 8th to12th in Vancouver, and we look forwardto showcasing our part of Canada.

For more information, visitwww.igcaCongress.com, or contactRenata Triveri ([email protected]). Tobecome a sponsor, contact Donna Budd([email protected]). ■

7

continued from cover Merchandisers at Plant Paradise GardenCentre craft attention-getting gardens and displays in and around their productofferings. Their creativity granted them the title of “Best Garden Centre of the Year”for 2006.

Leeways Garden Centre features colour-blocked displays, and emphasizes the themeswith sizable but inexpensive accessoriespainted in bright hues. Each colour-blockeddisplay also includes a sign board to indicate,in this case, purple-flowering plants.

South African garden centres are exceptionalat creating welcoming display gardens anddiversifying what attracts people to their stores.Flora Farm leases a portion of their buildingsto All Senses Wellness Centre. To supportits integration in the garden centre, FloraFarm maintains an “All Senses HerbGarden” from which herbs are harvestedfor use in the spa’s baths, oils, and steams.

The frothy blooms of Jacaranda trees towerover Safari Garden Centre’s thatched-roofbuildings and outdoor nursery. Safari’splant sales comprise the smallest portion of its business with a thriving conventioncentre and wedding facilities, chapel, gamefarm, several restaurants and a popular pubnow attracting the bulk of its customers.

No garden tour ofSouth Africa iscomplete without avisit to Kirsten-bosch NationalBotanical Garden.Kirstenbosch spans

528 hectares, 36 of which are cultivatedwith only indigenous plants of the country,including the glowing orange, red andyellow pincushion plant (Leucospermum)pictured here.


FCC AgriSuccess ForumNovember 21Abbotsford, BCwww.fcc-fac.ca (click on Learning Centre)

P. ramorum Certification & Environmental Farm PlanningWorkshopsVarious dates and locations. Contact BCLNA for details.

Nursery Commodity Meeting & Christmas PartyNovember 29Ledgeview Golf CourseAbbotsford, BCwww.bclna.com

Landscape Commodity Meeting & Christmas PartyDecember 5Executive Plaza HotelCoquitlam, BCwww.bclna.com

BC Landscapers & Contractors ExpoJanuary 22 – 23BC Place StadiumVancouver, BCwww.landscapingexpo.net

15th Annual Nursery Growers Short CourseJanuary 29Ramada Plaza Conference Centre Abbotsford, BC www.bclna.com

Western Canada Turfgrass Conference & ShowFebruary 24 – 27Penticton Trade & Convention CentrePenticton, BCwww.wctaturf.com

BCLNA Fundraising AuctionFebruary 26United Flower Growers Co-OpBurnaby, BCwww.bclna.com

Out of Province EventsInternational Irrigation ShowDecember 9 – 11San Diego, CAwww.irrigation.org

Congress 2008January 8 – 10, 2008Toronto Congress CentreToronto, ONwww.locongress.com

Tropical Plant Industry ExhibitionJanuary 17– 19Broward County Convention CenterFt Lauderdale, FLwww.tpie.org

2008 Management ClinicJanuary 30 – February 02, 2008Louisville, KYwww.managementclinic.org

National Awards of LandscapeExcellenceFebruary 9, 2008St John, NBwww.canadanursery.com

Sanitize with certaintySanitization can be very costly if not done effectively.

• Iotron takes sanitization to a new level, offeringNursery Growers unparalleled results.

• Iotron utilizes irradiation technology to eliminatePathogens, fungi and molds on pots, trays, andstyroblocks.

• Iotron's sanitization method fully penetrates materialslike an X-ray, effectively sterilizing the material.

Field trials have proven that the sanitization level of pots prior to planting can affect plant yields.

Money does grow on trees!Be confident that your pots, trays or styroblocks are

the cleanest they can be from the start. A diseasefree environment creates disease free plants.

Benefits• Re-use old pots, trays & styroblock• Increase plant yields• Reduce maintenance on plants• Environmentally friendly process• No more need for harsh chemicals, steam or hot water

If your sanitization method leaves you uncertain, then it's definitely time to make a change.

For more information please contact Iotron Technologies Corp. 1425 Kebet Way, Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 6L3

Ph. (604)945-8838 Fax. (604)945-8827Website www.Iotron.com Email: [email protected]

Sanitize with certaintySanitization can be very costly if not done effectively.

• Iotron takes sanitization to a new level, offeringNursery Growers unparalleled results.

• Iotron utilizes irradiation technology to eliminatePathogens, fungi and molds on pots, trays, andstyroblocks.

• Iotron's sanitization method fully penetrates materialslike an X-ray, effectively sterilizing the material.

Field trials have proven that the sanitization level of pots prior to planting can affect plant yields.

Money does grow on trees!Be confident that your pots, trays or styroblocks are

the cleanest they can be from the start. A diseasefree environment creates disease free plants.

Benefits• Re-use old pots, trays & styroblock• Increase plant yields• Reduce maintenance on plants• Environmentally friendly process• No more need for harsh chemicals, steam or hot water

If your sanitization method leaves you uncertain, then it's definitely time to make a change.

For more information please contact Iotron Technologies Corp. 1425 Kebet Way, Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 6L3

Ph. (604)945-8838 Fax. (604)945-8827Website www.Iotron.com Email: [email protected]

and programs

Industryeven tsBCLNA OFFICE: 604-574-7772; 800-421-7963


9

Hosted by the Town of Qualicum Beach,the 4th Annual BC Communities inBloom Awards Ceremony and Confer-ence was held at the end of September.With a ‘Casino Night’ theme, delegatesenjoyed an evening of socializing andgambling their play money away. Eventscontinued the next day with a variety of educational seminars geared for CiBdelegates including Networking – Benefitsto Connecting With Other Organizationsand Composting Organics As Part of YourCommunity’s Garbage and RecyclingProgram. The awards ceremony tookplace that evening and all communityparticipants received their Bloom RatingCertificates and Evaluation Reports.Glass vase trophies were presented totop winners with an additional sevenawards going to communities with outstanding marks in specific areas.Congratulations to the following 5-Bloom Winners:• Village of Clinton• District of Lillooet• City of Castlegar• District of Summerland

Congratulations also to:• Hope: Natural & Architectural

Heritage Conservation• Campbell River: Landscaped Areas• Gibsons: Environmental Awareness• Ashcroft: Tidiness Effort• Cranbrook: Floral Displays

• Mission: Community Involvement• Harrison Hot Springs:

Urban Forestry

Dale Macdonald accepts the 5-Bloom awardon behalf of the District of Summerland.

Special recognition goes to the followingcommunities that received awards at thenational ceremony in Moncton, NB:• Quesnel: Best town with a population

of 10,001 to 13,000• Langley City: Best International

Medium Category• Kelowna: Best Blooming Community

BC Communities in Bloom is a not forprofit organization that delivers the CiB program to this province’s munici-palities by helping to focus communityeffort in improving the tidiness,appearance and visual appeal of their

neighbourhoods, parks and streetsthrough the imaginative use of regionallyappropriate landscaping. An integralpart of the success of this program isincreased environmental awareness and preservation of heritage and culture.This program engages the whole com-munity by including citizens of all ages,businesses, community groups and local government.

With environmental stewardshipespecially relevant today, participants in the BC Communities in Bloom pro-gram are leading the way at a ‘grassroots’level. We are proud of what thesecommunities are accomplishing!

For more information, visitwww.bccommunitiesinbloom.com ■

BC Communities in Bloom

4th Annual Awards Ceremony & Conference

For All Your Insurance Needs

Created for the green industry.Protecting the green industry.

The new BCCiB website officially launched in September. The site was professionallydesigned by Nick Ellery, Ellery New Media.


Langley TownshipConsidersBotanical GardenReprinted from the Langley Times, Al Irwin,October 21, 2007

A botanical garden proposed in LangleyTownship will be the subject of a report from the recreation departmentto council.

Recreation director David Leavers toldcouncil that staff will report back tocouncil on the costs involved to study theproposal, and make a recommendation.

The staff will examine costs involved in environmental, soil, archeological andother aspects which would requireinvestigation if the Township proceeds.

“There is some detailed analysis thatneeds to be done,” he told councilMonday. The proposal, from the LangleyRotary Club, had been the subject of a presentation to the Township’s Parks and Recreation Commission, and council Monday received a commis-sion recommendation to support abotanical garden.

Rotary Club members, led by Les Clay,the former operator of Clay’s Nursery,have proposed the garden for a 47-acreportion of the old Berry Farm purchasedby the Township last year.

The land is bordered on the west byLangley Bypass, Langley Airport on theeast, on the north by 56 Avenue, and on the south by Fraser Highway.

Clay, who sold the nursery but retained an acre of land planted inrhododendrons, said 2008 is the 50thanniversary of the Rotary Club ofLangley, and the hope is to dosomething “significant” to mark the milestone.

Councillors, with the exception of Kim Richter, appeared interested in theidea. Richter commented that the idea came from with Langley CityMayor Peter Fassbender, and added that perhaps Fassbender should run fora Township seat.

Mayor Kurt Alberts said Richter mighthave gotten that idea from an inaccuratenews story. Councillor Mel Kositskysaid the City of San Fernando, which theTownship has been involved with as apartner through CIDA, is renowned inthe Philippines for its botanical gardens,and would likely be willing to share itsexpertise with the Township.

Annika & JerrySay ‘I Do’!

Annika Kristensen, BCLNA IndustryDevelopment Assistant and HortEduca-tionBC Recruiter, and Jerry Ingram ofGSU Landscaping, exchanged vows on a crisp, sunny afternoon in September atRedWoods Golf Course. In a beautifulsetting of tall trees, fallen leaves, con-tainer plantings and hanging baskets,family, friends and colleagues celebratedthe outdoor wedding ceremonyfollowed by an evening of good food and fun under a beautifully decorated(and heated) tent. CongratulationsAnnika and Jerry!

BCLNA Welcomes Ina Changto the Team

We are delighted that Ina Chang hasaccepted the position of Reception/Administrative Assistant at the BCLNA.Formerly a business manager forChristian Dior Canada, Ina left toenjoy her year of maternity leave withnow 17 month old Katelyn. With a keen interest to develop her skills in an office environment, Ina will be the voice of the BCLNA as she welcomesyour calls and assists with variousadministrative tasks.

Spectrum SellsCanadian Home& Garden DivisionSpectrum has signed an agreement to sell Nu-Gro which is the Canadiandivision of its home and gardenbusiness. The new owners are RoyCapMerchant Banking Group and ClarkeInc. They specialize in investing inundervalued companies with the goal of returning the business to sustainable,long-term profitability.

10

Industry Bits


Governments WorkTogether to ImprovePest Managementin British ColumbiaAgriculture and Agri-Food Canada andthe British Columbia provincial govern-ment are investing a total of $311,500 inBCLNA and Kwantlen University Collegepest management projects. Funding of$288,500 to the BCLNA will initiate aprovince-wide pest management accredita-tion and Integrated Pest Management (IPM)training program. An additional $23,000will be provided for a series of biocontrolseminars conducted by the Institute forSustainable Horticulture,Kwantlen Univer-sity College, to further support the use ofbiological approaches to pest management.

Other project partners include membersof the Western Canada Turfgrass Associ-ation and the B.C. Recreation and ParksAssociation, a variety of communitygroups,and the Bullitt Foundation through theInstitute for Sustainable Horticulture.

For more information, please visit:Investment Agriculture Foundation atwww.iafbc.ca; the Agricultural Environ-ment Initiative at www.bcac.bc.ca; andACAAF at www.agr.gc.ca/acaaf.

GardenWiseOnline.caLaunchedGardenWiseMagazine, inpartnershipwith BCLNA,has launched a refreshedGardenWisewebsite.

CanadaWide Media,publisher of GardenWiseMagazine, will maintain the site regularly,and market it extensively through itsaffiliate publications, bringing far moreBC visitors than BCLNA would generate

on its own. This is a huge benefit for land-scape and retail members who will haveexclusive listings on this site—for free!

However, work still needs to be done onthe website to help visitors search forBCLNA landscapers and retailers. At this

time, clicking the BCLNA logo found nearthe bottom of each page is the only meansof accessing the database. Retail andlandscape members are asked to provideupdated company information for thedatabase. Contact Ina Chang for an infoadjustment form; [email protected]. ■

11

BCLNA News Bulletins


theclassifieds

12

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GROWER SERVICES LTD.

Call us for all yournative and ornamental

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LINNAEANURSERIES LTD.

For SaleCedars1 acre of cedars 5 – 10 ft. tall in theground. Phone or text for details. 250 442-7388

Erica Enterprises Wholesale Nursery Ltd.Going concern facility, growingnursery stock in rural Pitt Meadowson quiet no thru road. Sale includes:3,800 sq. ft. 3 year old residence,19.49 acres of level land, warehouse,greenhouses, delivery truck and allmachinery.

Asking price $4,064,000 Canadian.Plant inventory is not included in saleand can be negotiated separately.

Erica Enterprises Ltd. 14021 Rippington Road, Pitt Meadows, BC V3Y 1Z1Phone: (604) 465-6732; Fax: (604) 465-2307, Email: [email protected]

Happy Hollow Nurseries Ltd.Turn key operating nursery on 10park-like acres on Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford, BC. Establishedwholesale customer base. Newlyrenovated Whistler-style home is1,720 sq. ft. plus full basement.16 greenhouses and propagatinggreenhouses, in-ground pool, shop,horse barn, spring-fed ponds andmore! Over $500,000 in nursery stockand equipment included. Property is not in the ALR! Call today for acomplete package. $1,800,000

For more info call Greg Walton at BC Farm and Ranch Realty Corp. Toll Free 1-888-852-AGRI (2474)

Holiday Cheer!Nursery Commodity Christmas PartyNovember 29 • Ledgeview Golf Course • Abbotsford

Landscape Commodity Christmas PartyDecember 5 • Executive Plaza Hotel • Coquitlam


dsPostharvest Moisture Loss from Bare-root Roses Affects Performanceof Containerized Plants (HortScience42(3):622-625)

Two-year-old roses were dug bare-rootand were put in wet storage within anhour of uprooting. Plants were air driedfor 0, 1, 3, 5, or 7 hours and shortly afterwere rehydrated by spraying with waterfor1minute. The plants were then grownin containers at a nursery in Texas. Themoisture content of well-hydrated roseswas between 51–56%. Moisture loss of4 – 6% occurred during the first hour ofdrying, and –1% per hour thereafter. A sharp increase in plant mortality occurredat moisture contents below 43%, whichoccurred after 4 hours of drying for‘Mister Lincoln’ and after 6 hours for thecultivars ‘Angel Face,’ ‘Blue Girl’ and‘Peace.’ The fifth cultivar studied (‘FirstPrize’) had a moisture content just above44% after7hours of drying. Moisture lossdelayed growth and flowering, increasedcane dieback, and reduced the number offlowering shoots. As the drying timeincreased, there was a linear increase inthe time to bloom and a linear decreasein the overall plant performance rating.The study also determined that the moisturecontent of the canes accurately reflectsmoisture content of the whole-plant.

Effect of Substrate Depth on InitialGrowth, Coverage, and Survival of 25Succulent Green Roof Plant Taxa(HortScience 42(3):588-594)

Substrate depths of 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5cm weretested. Deeper substrates were determinedto promote greater growth and survival.Recommended species for the depthstested and climates similar to southernMichigan include Phedimus spurious‘Leningrad White,’ Sedum acre, S. album‘Bella d’Inverno,’ S. middendorffianum, S. reflexum, S. sediforme, and S. spurium‘Summer Glory.’ S. dasyphyllum ‘Burnatii,’S. dasyphyllum ‘Lilac Mound,’ S. diffusum,S. hispanicum, and S. kamtschaticum were

suggested as subsidiary species that may not be able to cover large areas orsurvive with shallow substrates (2.5 cm).

Effect of Substrate Depth and PlantingSeason on Sedum Plug Survival onGreen Roofs (J.Environ.Hort.25(2):95-99)

The study evaluated 9 Sedum speciesplanted on raised roof platforms atMichigan State University. Depth of thesubstrate (4, 7, or 10 cm) did not signifi-cantly influence survival, whereas seasonof planting did. Spring planting (June 8th)resulted in 81% survival and fall planting(September 20th) had only 23% survival.The poor survival with fall planting mayhave been due to the short period ofestablishment time (at most 5weeks) beforethe first frost. Although survival was notsignificantly reduced by substrate depth,plant survival in the 4 cm substrate (82.3%)was lower than for the 7 cm substrate(96.9%) when averaged across all taxatested, except Sedum cauticola ‘Lidakense.’S. cauticola ‘Lidakense’ barely survived atany substrate depth or either plantingseason. S. floriferum and S. sexangularehad virtually 100% survival at bothplanting seasons.

Physical and Chemical Characteristicsof a Commercial Potting SubstrateAmended with Vermicompost Producedfrom Two Different Manure Sources(HortTechnology 17(3):336-340)

The study measured the effect onphysical and chemical properties of amend-ing a commercial peat-based substrate(Metro Mix 360) with vermicompostderived from either pig (PVC) or beefcattle (BVC) manure. Amending MetroMix with vermicompost increased thepercentage of small particles (<1 mm in diameter) in the substrate. As thequantity of vermicompost increased,there was an increase in the dry bulkdensity and the water holding capacity,and a decrease in the air volume andporosity (Table 1).

The addition of vermicompost sub-stantially increased the concentration of macronutrients in the substrate(Table 2). The magnitude of the effectvaried between the pig and beef cattle vermicomposts. Vermicompostamendments resulted in little change in substrate pH, regardless of volume or source. ■

13

BCMAL Report

Research Snippets

Table 1

The effects of vermicompost (VC) amendments on substrate physical propertiesConcentration Dry Bulk Water Holding Air Volume Porosity

of VC Density Capacity

10% +7% +10% –8% –1%

20% +19% +31% –24% –2%

40% +23% +44% –29% –3%

100% +29% +55% –38% –3%

Table 2

The effects of vermicompost (VC) amendments on substrate chemical properties.Conc. NO3-N P K Ca ECVC PVC BVC PVC BVC PVC BVC PVC BVC PVC BVC

10% +43% +48% +245% +144% +8% +16% +49% +37% +24% +53%

20% +73% +202% +336% +400% –9% +29% +70% +238% +35% +61%

40% +270% +309% +336% +466% –9% +37% +107% +268% +67% +219%


14

By Joanne E. Betzler, CHT

One universal challenge for gardencentres is generating strong sales duringthe winter months. The demand forseasonal merchandise in December sup-plies a robust customer flow, but whenJanuary rolls around, sales drop drama-tically. While it is not realistic to expectwinter sales to match those in springtime,there are simple ways for enthusiasticgarden centres to encourage an increasein sales during the slow winter months.At the same time, the implementation ofthose ideas is within everyone’s reachand need not be daunting.

First and foremost, give people a reason to come in. Most people shop for bargains post Christmas and aJanuary sidewalk sale with sharp pricesoffering great value for merchandisethat was over purchased last season is atactic that can drive sales while makingspace for merchandised booked for thecoming season.

Feature the nicest product availableduring the winter months. A tropicalpromotion of fresh specimens at thesharpest prices is a good post Christmasmove. Capitalize on available wintercolour such as primulas, pansies, potteddaffodils, and other forced bulbs byoffering special pricing on multiples.For example charging $2.99 for a single4-inch pot but offering 5 for $12.99 will promote a significant increase insales. Displaying merchandise withcolour and fragrance interest such asforsythia, sarcococca, hellebores, heathers,camelia at the entrance encouragesimpulse purchases.

February is a bleak month when manypeople are receptive to seminars thatextend the promise of springtime. Offer-ing information on topics such as seed

starting, planting begonia bulbs, winterblooming beauties and moss control for lawns are just a few ideas. Child-ren’s workshops will bring mom anddad in to shop while junior is entertain-ed for an hour or two. Ask your customerswhat they would like to see and build a timetable based on the feedback you get.

“This is all well and good” you mightcomment, “but how do I let my customersknow about these great opportunitieswhen my budget does not include winteradvertising?”

Start planning NOW. Indeed, thinkingahead is critical to effective execution of your plans. Communicate your plansduring the Christmas traffic flow. Preparea winter calendar of upcoming eventsand hand it out to customers as they enterthe store or at the till. Staple dollarvalue discount or percentage discountcoupons to your calendar for purchasesmade in January to March, ideally adifferent coupon for each month or eveneach week.

Your staff is your greatest asset.Engaging them in the planning, com-munication, and execution of events will help to instill their enthusiasm. The more knowledgeable your staff is,the more they will convey a sense of excitement that your customers will find irresistible.

Use your reader board. If you don’thave one, put big colourful signs in the window — feature something everyweek. Let people know you value their business.

Ideas for sales growth and the means to implement them are at everyone’sfingertips and preplanning and communi-cation are key components to success. ■

Warming Winter Sales

Attract Cool Season Shoppers withthe Promise of Spring

What are BCLNA MembersDoing to Generate Winter Sales?

Fall Displays: Brian Russell, RussellNursery, North Saanich – With so many fall blooming perennials, Russell Nurserycapitalizes on creating fabulous displayswhile also showcasing any shrubs/ground cover with berries. The displaysinspire customers for additional fall and container plantings.

Ladies Night: Brenda & Arnold Falk,Tanglebank Country Gardens, Abbotsford –This is an exclusive event where ladies aretreated to an evening of sampling appeti-zers and learning new recipes from a localchef, while the latest in seasonal décorfrom place settings and centre pieces tomantles and front doors are presented.This creates a fun and social atmospherefor customers to buy all their holiday giftsand décor for their homes.

Open House: Nico’s Nurseryland Ltd.,Nico van der Pauw, Salmon Arm – In mid-November, a full day event takes place atthe garden centre from 9:00 am – 8:00 pm.The local radio station is on site promotingthe event, treats and hot apple cider areprovided to customers who take advantageof many ‘one day only’ specials.

Christmas Containers: Cable BakerRCB Garden Service – When Cable andhis staff are not hanging up Christmaslights, de-icing pavements or cleaning upwinter storm debris for clients, they offerthe service of refreshing containers withChristmas inspired plantings.

Full Service ChristmasTree Selection:Lonnie van der Zalm, Art Knapp Nursery& Garden Centre, Surrey –While sippingcomplimentary hot apple cider, customerscan take their time checking out a wideselection of trees that are hung under acovered area, allowing them to spin thetree for full inspection. Staff provides theadded service of wrapping and tying the tree to the roofs of customers’ vehicles.


sponsored by

Safety CheckTerri Holizki, WorkSafeBC Industry & Labour Services Manager for Small Business

42481 Industrial Way, Chilliwack, B.C. 604.823-6688

Sumas Gro–Media Ltd. • Raw materials purchased in advancehelps to ensure product consistencyand availability.

• Multiple computerscontrol the dosing equipment,increasing accuracyand speed. Thismakes it easier tooffer competitivelypriced products.

• Non-invasive mixing equipment protects the structure and consistency of the media.

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Sumas Gro–Media specializes in the productionof specialty crop mixes for the nursery, bedding

plants, perennial and blueberry crops. We also have seedling and propagation soils.

Premium raw ingredients produce a consistent end product every time.

Your AnnualHealth and SafetyProgram ReviewAn annual review of your health andsafety program helps identify itsstrengths and weaknesses and focus on areas that need improvement.This checklist may help organize yourreview and identify issues. Involve your employees in the process to heartheir concerns and suggestions.

1. Check your written program. Is it up to date? Posted in a handy location?

2. Review written safe work procedures.Are they up to date? Posted nearhazardous equipment or machinery?

3. Check whether your process foridentifying hazards and assessing risks is working well.

4. Confirm that new worker orientationincludes instruction on your H&Sprogram and safe work procedures.Does anyone need refresher training?Did you provide training for newprocedures or equipment?

5. Confirm that safety inspections areconducted regularly:• How are hazards reported between

inspections? • Are inspections discussed at monthly

H&S meetings and followed up? • Does equipment need repair or

replacement?

6. Review hazardous materialsprocedures:• Is there a written inventory of

controlled products, and acorresponding MSDS?

• Are new controlled products checkedfor supplier labels and MSDSs?

• Do workers understand MSDSs andknow where to find them?

• Are decanted products labeled, and are the labels legible?

• Do workers know how to safelyhandle, store, and dispose ofhazardous materials?

7. Review your accident investigationprocess: • Are accidents and near misses

reported and investigated?• Do you focus on finding the root

cause of the accident and takingcorrective action?

8. Review your first aid procedures:• Do workers know the location of

first aid kits, how to contact first aid, and how to obtain assistance in an emergency?

• Are workers instructed to report all injuries?

• Are all injuries recorded?

9. Check that you are recording: • Orientation and safety training

sessions• Accidents and injuries• Inspection, accident and investigation

reports• Monthly H&S meetings• Do you review accident statistics

to identify trends?

10. Review your monthly safety meeting plan:• Do you hold monthly safety

meetings?• Do workers attend most of these

meetings?

For more information contact thePrevention Information Line at 604-276-3100 (Lower Mainland) or toll-free 1-888-621-SAFE (7233).


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