J" Plant Growers QUALITY CARDtN CtNThRS & GROWERS a CO Z a: < orary imbalance to ofteet the imbalance Mother Nature created in response to the imbalance you caused when you decided to grow plants in pots, in rows, or indoors. Mother Nature sent you some bad bugs... We'll send you some good ones. Nottingham, New Hampshir TEL: 603.942il!l99^- FA x 603.942.8932 - eml: Info«>GreenMeth k, www.GREENWlfciHoos.coM - www.ShopGreenMethods.co .im,m,M. (^^i^^^^M^siMm^sm^nmo Wis^^B^isimm^l(t-')2(>-i,il.' Ia\: I soil Sli-biH or ()1() ')i()-(rK') ■ IjiKiil: ell!': faion farms.com Hit' ritinlsiihiii FROM THE B O A R U The NHPGA Retail Directory BY ROBERT DEMERS Dear Fellow Retailers, The NHPGA has produced a Re tail Directory thanks to the help ot a mini grant trom the NH Department ot Agriculture. Only NHPGA members are promoted in this directory. It is another NHPGA service designed to help vour busi- ness grow. The directory, which was pre- pared by a professional graphic designer, provides your potential customers with a number of ways to locate you. One of the easiest loca- tor aids is the state map and corre- sponding lists. The state's five distinct regions are outlined and all business information is sorted by these regions and listed together. For example: when a homeowner re- ceives the directory, the individual shoidd first consult the map to de- termine what region he or she lives in. Next the homeowner can lurn to that section in the directory and find all the NHPGA retail members listed in alphabetical order. The publication also includes a complete alphabetical list of all NHPGA retail members. In this sec- tion, we have the opportunity to in- clude more specifics about your business. After your business name, current address and phone number, there is a description of your spe- cialties and the services your offer. Brief directions to your place and your hours of operation are also listed here. In the directory there is a small box under your listing. When the box is checked it indicates that your business participates in the discount coupon program. There are 4 cou- pons aimed at each of the 4 seasons. The idea of the coupons is to entice a new customer to your garden cen- ter and give a regular customer an- other reason lo stop by and shop. The directory will be handed out at NHPGA functions that involve the public such as The Farm and Forest Expo held each February in Manchester. You the retailer can give them out vourself if you are doing a function within your store or when you're doing a demonstra- tion or talk away from your store. A lot of us do talks and demonstra- tions outside of our garden centers and this would be a nice tool to give to potential customers rather than just a business card, or flyer. Contact a director or Virginia Hast with questions about obtaining a few copies to distribute. The NHPGA Retail Directory is a con- sumer friendly marketing tool with a lot of potential. Advertiser's Directory R.E. Supply 6 North (Country Organics 16 Bench Top Flat Filler 16 Northeast Nursen,' 26 Bobcat ot New Hampshire 4 Northern Nurseries Inc. 12 Carpenter's Olde English Greenhouse 8 O'Donal's Nurseries 16 Chas. Hart Seed. Co. 8 Pierson Nurseries Inc. 16 Concord Crop Center 14 Pleasant View Ciardens 12 D.S. Cole Growers 4 Rimol Greenhouse Systems Inside Back ('over Davis Brook Farm 6 Rolling Green Nursery 5 Deniers CSardcn Center 25 Scenic Nursery 5 Eaton Farms 2 Sherman Nursery 14 Garth Millet Auctions Inc. 25 Sibgo Tree Company 27 Gold Star Sod Farm & Nursery 20 Stewart's Nursery Inc. 20 Greenhouse Supply Inc. 26 Stratham Circle Nursery ■) Griffin Greenhouse &: Nursery Supplies 10 Sylvan Nursery 5 Hortica 8 The Green Spot Inside Front Cover Jolly Gardener 8 The Robert Baker Companies 22 Joseph Giannino Co. 26 Tuckahoe Turf Farms 10 I.aughron's Nursery 15 Van Berkum Nursery 10 Fiherty International Frucks 6 W.H. Milikowski 2 Millican Nurseries 6 Webber's Dublin Nursery 16 New England Nursery Sales 20 Western Maine Nurseries 14 Newton Greenhouse 26 Weston Nurseries, Inc. 4 EARLY WINTER iOd.l Weston Nurseries, Inc. Commercial Sales Division Weston Nurseries oilers tke iinest plant material known to norticuJtiire professionals. W^e raise most evenj plant variety suited (or tke Nortbeast s cli- mates and soils on our Q50 acre iarm witk VjO acres o( production land mass. Our Commercial Sales Yard, staHed witli knowl- edgaLle and eHicient prolessionals, maintains tke best selection and qualitij in New England. Still taking pride in our founders mission to _oller a wide variety oi plants capaLle ol standing up to New Eji^and conditions- since 1Q23. We look iorward to serving you. Rte 495 to exit 2 1 -A. Go straight for 3 mi , . on left. East Main Street (Route 135) P.O.Box 186 Hopkinton.MA 01748 Tel; (508) 435-3414 ext, 8028 WcStOtl Fax (508)497-0743 NuTSerieS www.WeslonNursenes com V.o. -o. Try Our 8" Eye-Catcher Program 251 North Villugc Road I OLidon. NH 03307 (603) 783-9561 Fax (()0j) 7«3-9562 mvw.dscolegrowers.coni DlS^COLE Bobcat of New Hampshire Your Skid Steer Sales and Rental Headquarters We carry the full line of Bobcat equipment and accessories. W Bobcat Come see the innovative new products from Bobcat — especially suited for the nursery industry. New, combination All-Wheel Steer/Skid-steer loader & Toolcat utility vehicle with 1,500-lb. capacity. Sales • Service • Parts • Rental Route 4, Chichester, NH (603)224-1234 www.bobcatnh.com The I'ltiiilsiNdii M Make Your Voice Heard Lynne Hardy ot Webster, NH wlio was an accive member ol^ the NHPGA Board of Directors made a career change over the summer. The Board is now actively seeking, nominations to fill her seat. It you would like to recommend a colleague or yourself, please contact a director. Whether you use snail mail, email, tax, or instant messaging, get word to a di- rector as soon as you can. A number ot projects are under consideration and additional input is appreciated. Contact intormation tor each director appears on the backpage ot The Plantsmau. Involvement in the NHPGA otters a wide range ot opportunities to put your skills to good use. The commit- ment involves just one meeting per month, (typically no meeting in May) some additional email correspondence, and helping hands offered at one ot the larger association meetings. Winter Meeting 2004 Plans are being linalizcd tor a hrsi- rate Winter Meeting to be held January 14, 2004. Eaton Farms ot Leesports, PA is the 2004 key sponsor. This event is a popular educational conterence centered at Bedford s Wayfarer Inn. A complete roster of speakers fill the day with in- dustry updates and research trends. During breaks, participants are en- couraged to meet green industry con- tacts who are exhibiting their prod- ucts and services throughout the day. Exhibitor space is available on a first come/first serve basis. Last year all ex- hibitor booths filled up quickly! Call 603-225-0653 to reserve a space. Farm & Forest in the Queen City February 6 & 7 are the dates lor the 2004 Farm and Forest Exposition. NHPGA would like to offer one member an opportunity to highlight his/her operation at the NHPGA booth. NHPGA will pay the booth space and supply handouts including the "hot-otf-the-press" retail directory. The participating business can decide the booth's theme, provide plants, and supply staff for the booth. Other asso- ciation members may be available to man the booth if necessary. This could be a great new opportu- nity just prior to the 2004 selling season. Many homeowners take in this winter expo to rediscover their greenthumb and browse through new landscaping ideas for spring and summer. A key role in the NHPGA booth at the Expo would shine the spotlight on the products and services your business offers. NURSERY- 1 028 Horseneck Road - Westport, MA 02790 508-636-4573 Fax 508-636-3397 ww/wSylvanNurserv-Com Landscapers and Garden Centers . . . See What SYLVAN has to offer! Ji^ Trees, Shrubs, Groundcovers ^ Specimens #, Heather & Heath '%t Native & Sea Shore Plants ^ Perennials, Grasses, Roses Call, Fax or E-mail to request our catalog ^ Perennials Vines, Herbs 1 \ \ - 1 ^ 1 Annuals, Alpines Ornamental Trees m^ ^w K ™ 1^^", & Shrubs Rolling Green Nursery 64 Breakfast Hill Road Greenland, NH 03840 Tools & Pottery Statuary & Gifts Display Gardens (603) 436-2732 Aquatics www.rollinggreennursery.coni E-mail: rgln@rcn.com Wholesale Discount SCENIC NURSERY & Landscaping Growers of quality Trees, Shrubs, Annuals & Perennials Over 7 acres! A full service nursery and greenhouse Check pricing and availability at www.scenicnursery.net Minimum 15% off to Trade 9 Dudley Road Raymond, NH (603) 895-0236 1J\RLY WINTKR 200.i Ddvis Brook Fc drm. Growing for tKe Dlsartminating Gard&ner I li-rc 111 i\c\\ Lnglcincl \vc grov d complete Inn- o\ — Deciduous Flo'«t"iin^ ShruKs The Ne* dm I Unu^udl Native PIdnts Over 200 vdneties of DAYLILICS Like the natives, all our plants are winter hardy ... 106 Bonds Corner Rd. (Route 137-South) PO Box 476 • Hancock, NH 03449 ph. 603-525-4728 • fax 603-525-9483 /QUALin' . SELECTION ',& SERVICE This Is What We Grow At Millican Nurseries. See our wide selection of trees, evergreens and shrubs More than 1 .000 vaneties available Delivery throughout New England Located in Chichester Nil (13 miles north of Concord) Call us at 603-435-6660 Helping You to Grow B.E. Supply GREENHOUSE SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENT Pre-filled Flats & Pots Klerks Films Restricted Pesticides Kord Products Fertilizers Distributors for Hyde Park, Fafard, Scotts Products Hemlock Road, Langdon MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1468, Charlestomto, New Hampshire 03603 warehouse: 603-835-6664 home: 603-835-2523 fax: 603-835-2180 New For 2003 The Ultimate Tool for Your Landscaping Needs 7 Person Crew Cab, Automatic transmission When manpower makes the difference, this truck is for YOU! Liberty International Trucks OF NEW Hampshire:, i_lc 1 *40D South Willow Street . Manchester mm 03 I U3-4a77 Phone . 6D3-6Z3-aBV3 . BOO- 5 & Z-3 B I -1 ISales TAxl 603 6Z3-0&53 . {DrriCE Fa.M eU3-e4 1-g4B& • $250 Cash rebate with copy of this ad on first purchase • The I'hiiilsimiii M The New Hampshire Plant Growers' Association Board of Directors' Meeting October 7, 2003 The meeting came to order at 6:55 I'.M. The September meeting minutes were approved by John, seconded by Rick. The financial reports were approved by Rick, seconded by Ron. Budget Cathy unable to attend. Robert had sent slide projector cost information. Some discussion as to our timing with this purchase as so many speakers are now using Powerpoint. Ginny will contact Cathy to obtain her thoughts on this. Executive Director's Report Ginny had nothing special to report. Plantsman Melissa sent a comprehensive report which included: the new rate card, list of potential advertisers, upcom- ing publication dates, miscellaneous questions. Programs Brett reported on the Winter Meet- ing. We have a new keynote speaker. Bill Cullina, from the Gar- den in the Woods. His topic will be "Beyond Black-Eyed Susans, Excit- ing Native Perennials tor Sun & Shade." Other slots are filled. Brett will contact the Falard representa- tive to firm up his topic. Discussion about exhibitor tables in the toyer followed. All agreed we could put several tables in the foyer to offer 20 spaces. An article about exhibitor opportunities has run in both The Plantsman and the NHLA newsletter and there are several exhibitors to date. Ginny will send an e-mail re- minder to potential exhibitors. Ginny and Brett will also work on a Retail Directory preliminary meeting budget. The group reviewed the drafts of Spring twilight meeting will be at the covers and map page. Everyone Rolling Green Nurse.-y. Summer approved. Ginny will leave for meeting will be at Gold Star. Robert's final review. UNHCE Cathy unable to attend. Marketing Ron has called all members with de- linquent dues. Most were planning to rejoin. New Board member discussion The draft of the contractual agree- ment between UNHCE & NHPGA for The Best Plants for New Hamp- shire book was reviewed. One edit made which Ginny will share with Holly Young. Board reviewed marketing plan from Audi Axman. Will use her for a big spring marketing blitz. If the book is ready for the holidays, we will do a press release in house us- ing media source list from Holly Young. Rick updated us on the poinsettia tree project. Rick toured the State House and feels the tree will be in an excellent spot to highlight the horticulture industry in NH. A press event will be planned to high- light the partnership with UNH, the horticulture industry and the NH legislature in supporting horti- cidture in the state, and to inform about the importance of the hort. industry in NH. Ginny shared Robert's comments with regards to adding greenhouse technology to Farm & Forest this year. (Bob Rimol would have loved to participate, but will be at NE Grows). Ginny will check with Rob- ert to see how he left this with Geoffrey Njue. Legislative George unable to attend. John said that not much is going on and con- tinues to monitor. Rick clarified some of the timing dates for ISC recommendations to share at the NENA Leadership Meeting he is at- tending tomorrow. NHHE Ginny shared that only one grant application was received. Ginny will report on the NHHE's decision with regards to the grant request. John commented that in his past work with other industry groups, many researchers are looking for grants to carry their research over a period of a few years. Perhaps this is why the application numbers for the Endowment grant are dropping. Open Items Ginny shared a thank you note from Jeff Huntington with regards to the NENA Summer Expo. Ginny shared a letter regarding the Farm Bureau Open House. John has attended this in the past and said it is not really necessary for us to ex- hibit. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 8:15 P.M. The next meeting will be November 11, 200.5 at 6:.50 I>.M. at Demers Garden Center. Present at this meeting were lohn. Rick, Ron, Brett and Ginny. 1J\RLY WINTl-R 2003 .^ We don't answer to stockholders. We answer to you. As .1 niLiiiial insiitanLt' conip.inw [ lortica isiu owned by stockholders. Our ciistoimrs are our owners. So when the\' talk, v\r hstcn. hortica. Mii).^(SI.77-)U ivw\^',hnriKM-ii Insurance Specialists for the H o r t i c u I ( u r a 1 1 ii d u s [ r \' " ©2003 Hortica The Rofists' Mutual Insurance Company New England's largest source for the highest quality mulches, soils and soil amendments. BULK MULCHES Hemlock, Premium Mix, Cedar. Regular Mix, Dark Bark, Colored, and Playground Chips. SOILS & SOIL AMENDMENTS Premium Potting Soil, Premium and Standard Top Soil, 100% Organic Humus, Peat Humus, Composted and Dehydrated Cow Manure, Peal Moss Bales and our exclusive Shrub & Tree Mix. BAGGED MULCHES Hemlock, Pine Spruce, Cedar, Slate Black, Autumn Red, Bark Brown, Dark Bark, Nuggets and Mini Nuggets. JOLLY GARDENER PRODUCTS, DSC. 481 Springwater Road Frontier Division P.O. Box 527 500 E. Pumping Station Road Poland Spring, ME 04274 Quakertown, PA18951 800-879-2275 800-385-8057 HART'S 'seeds" QUALITY New England's Leading Full Line Seed House • Packet Seeds • Lawn Seed • Fertilizer • Grounds Maintenance Chemicals 1 (800) 326-HART FAST, COURTEOUS SERVICE The Chas. C. Hart Seed Co. P.O. BOX 9169 WETHERSFIELD, CT 061 29-01 69 1 (800) 326-HART CadpenteDc "The Geranium Specialists" Wholesale Qrowers 2 1/2" Geraniums (year round) 4" Pre-finished Geraniun^s 2 1/2" Ivy Geraniums & Fuchsia Martha Washington Geraniums Spring Hanging Baskets, Lilies/Bulbs Azaleas, Cyclamen, Poinsettias, Foliage J.B. CARPENTER & SON, INC. 603/659-3391 220 SOUTH MAIN STREET NEWMARKET, NH 03857 I he I'laiilsiiKiii M NH Plant Growersi Association Quarterly Financial Report 711103 Through 9/30/03 Balance checking account: 7/1/03: $15,466.17 INCOME Auction iiuonie $1 ,250.50 Book Order 2.527.27 Directory ads 650.00 Dues 5,650.00 Grants 2,000.00 Interest Inc 7.40 Meeting .Sponsors 1,000.00 NH Hort hndownient 215.00 Other Inc, Bus 1 5.84 Plantsman ads 950.00 Retail Directory 150.00 Total Income $14,416.01 EXPENSES Bank Charge 7.00 Directory Printing 21.00 Directory- mailing 76.62 Dues and Subscriptions 97.00 Ex. Director travel 1 1 5.00 Ex. Director-commission 45.00 Ex. Director-s.alary 2,000.00 Insurance 356.00 Marketing garden book 444. 1 2 Marketing General 1 19.00 Marketing-booth 210.00 Membership 32.99 Miscellaneous, Bus 20.00 NHHE 550.00 Office Postage 76.94 Office printing 88.24 Office supplies 198.85 Office-phone 217.19 Plantsman. Mailing 229.54 Plantunan. Printing 2,320.95 PLumnian. Design 495.00 Programs, Summer 69.94 Winter Meeting 04 500.00 Total Expenses (8,290.38) OVERALL TOTAL 6,125.63 Balance checking account: 9/30/03; $21,591,80 Balance savings account: 7/1/03: $8,802.01 Interest income $ 15.64 Balance savings account: 9/30/03 8,817.65 Operating Balance as of 9/30/03: $30,409.45 EARLY WINTER UW, New Members The Mountain Greenery 755 Route 16 Cssipee, NH 03864 Phone: 603-539-4943 Fax: 603-539-4901 Jill West D.S. Cole Growers, employee Barbara & Barry Williams Gilsum Gardens Greenhouses 167 Hammond Hollow Road Gilsum, NH 03448 Phone: 603-357-8058 Fax: 603-357-5522 e-mail: barrywilliams@cheshire.net wholesale greenhouse € Van Berklm Nursery ; \Vhcili'^,iie I't'renraals & Cmundcovers C ,-.-=r^ ^<£yw 15 Colby Rd. J Litchfield. NH 'Supplying the Turf Professional )for over 30 Years! ^Bluegrass Blends *Bluegrass/Fine Fescue Blends *Bluegrass/Ryegrass Blends *Bluegrass/Rye/Fescue Blends *4' Wide "Big Rolls" or Palletized Sod *Roll Out Service Grass Seed, Fertilizers, Lime, Bark Mulch, Peatmoss, Loam- l -Toll Free 1-800-556-6985- Your Complete Line of STRUCTURES & ACCESSORIES c;rifhn's construction department can help you design a stnicture that will work for you. We offer a wide selection ol" products including greenhouse frames, coverings, ventilation and heating equipment, shading systems, benching, environmental control, soil handling and planting equipment. Call your nearest Gnffin locatum for more details. ^^^^REENHOUSE & NURSERY SUPPLIES Tewksbury, MA Gray, ME Tel (978)851-4346 Tel 1207)657-5442 Fax (978)851-0012 Fax (207)657-5439 \ isii [IS ,11 www.griflins.com 10 I he I'laiilsiiiaii NEW HAMPSHIRE l\ E W .S A Friend is Remembered A special dedication cereiiionv was held October 16, 2003 at Merrimack Valley Middle School's new greenhouse. The educational fa- cility, named the Carl Woodward Memorial Greenhouse, will provide students in grade 6-8 with an op- portunity to work with plants, con- duct science experiments, and learn lite-skills in economics, horticulture, and commimications. The greenhouse, supplied by Rimol Greenhouse Systems, Inc. ot Hooksett, was purchased with hinds donated by the MVMS PTO and private donations. The greenhouse, is a tribute to Woodward who was a longtime employee ol the MVMS school district, prior to his death. A number ot colleagues were on hand to otter remarks and thank all who volunteered their time and talents to build the educational facility. Two MVMS teachers will oversee student utilization ot the greenhouse. Nearly all the utilities are now in place including the electricity and plumbing. All that remains is a final hookup to make the heaters opera- tional. During the busy Summer! NH is Represented Nationally: At the lulv OVA Summer Meetins,, held July 16, Doug Cole was elected as treasurer ot OFA. Based in Ohio, OFA is a national organization which supports floriculture profes- sionals. New Hampshire is now well represented as Doug Cole and Henry Huntington both serve on its board ot directors. New Hampshire Research is First Class On July 13, 2003 Paul Fisher re- ceived the Alex Laurie Award from OFA in Columbus, OH. Paul Fisher is .\n associate professor and exten- sion specialist at UNH in Durham. Paul received this award with his graduate student Jeremy Bisko and his colleague Bill Argo ot the Blackmore Co. for outstanding re- search in horticulture. His research was published in HortScience. Paul Fisher's research is valued by today's grower. NHPGA Auction Raises Money for NHPGA Scholarship Awards Thanks to generous donors and bid- ders, the NHPGA auction raised over $1000 dollars for their 2003 scholarship awards. The auction was iield at the NENA Summer Expo at Pleasant View Gardens in Loudon, NH. The Good, Bad, and Ugly "Bugs' How to Manage Them and Tri-State Greenhouse IPM workshops will he held January 6 (Maine), 7 (UNH), and 8 (ll\M). The topic: "The Good, Bad, and Ugly Bugs' and How to Manage Them. " Cost: $45.00 Recert. credits: hopefully 6. Deadline: Dec 22, 2003 Questions: Dr. Margaret Skinner, 802-656-5440. This year's special guests are Don Elliott, Applied Bionomics, BC, Canada and Wade Elmer, CT Agr. Exp. Station. No registratio7i at the door. Sign up now. these sessions fill up. The following is a list of the gen- erous donors who made the auction successful: Bigelow Nurseries Liolduc M.mutacturing Casertano Greenhouses Charter Oak Landscape & Nursery Sales Chestnut Hill Marketing Davis Brook Farm Eaton Farms Ferrucci Nurseries Fletcher Granite Gold Star Nurseries & Sod Farm nine's Horticidtural Hoogendoorn Nurseries Hop River Nursery Imperial Nurseries K & S Associates International Pottery Alliance ITML Horticultural Products, Inc. Millane Nurseries Millican Nurseries New Christie Ventures New England Nursery Sales Northeast Nursery Northern Nurseries Pleasant View Gardens Prides Corner Farm Rhode Island Nurseries Seik Horticultural from Conterton Nursery Still's Turf Depot Sunny Border Perennials Sylvan Nurseries The Robert Baker Co. Tuckahoe Turf W.H. Minkowski Wood bourne Cidtural Nurseries The 2003 NHPGA Scholarships will be awarded at the 2004 Joint NHPGA/NHLA Winter Meeting on January 14, 2004. i;arlv w iNTtR im. a better way to overwinter your nursery stock Call for info or a product sample 1-800-633-0159 fax: 978-251-0282 Ej\RLY winter 2003 15 WHOLESALE SUPPLIER OF NURSERY & WETLAND STOCK TO THE TRADE. PIERSON NURSERIES, INC. HERBACEOUS & WOODY WETLAND PLANTS -ORNAMENTALS -GROUNDCOVERS -PERENNIALS -VINES DEALER FOR BON TERRA WETLAND FABRICS CONTRACT GROWING AVAILABLE 24 BUZZELL RD, BIDDEFORD, MAINE 04005 (207) 499-2994 (207) 282-7235 FAX: (207) 499-2912 CALL FOR A QUOTATION OR A COPY OF OUR CATALOG. -WE DELIVER- All Natural Land Care Supplies Offering Natural Fertilizers, Soil Amendments ami Environmentally Compatible Pest Controls for the Professional: • Landscaper •Turf Care Expert • Arborist •Nursery man •Orchardist • Vegetable Grower • and Retail Dealer V>M^ NATURE'S TURF 8-1-9 5|^ FOR PROFESSIONAL TURF CARE for more mfomation contact : North Country Organics • Depot St. • Bradford, VT 05033 ph: 802.222.4277 fax: 802.222,9661 ert^ail: ncoinfa@norganics.com website: http://www.norganics.com FILLMORE BENCH TOP FLAT FILLER AFFORDABLE AUTOMATION Lightweight at 70 lbs. Compact— 22" W, 36" L, 30" H 3 Cubic Foot Hopper Adjustable Heavy Duty, All Welded, 16 + 1 8 gauge galvanized steel construction Externally operated paddle auger, keeps potting soil from bunchmg Contact: Russell Nolin at (603) 476-8855 fot additional product information send SASE to: Nolin Welding & Fabrications RFD1, Box 373, Route 171; Moultonboro, NH 03254 PERENNIALS— WILDFLOWERS— HERBS For Resale, Lining Out or Containers Cost per 6-Cell Pack: $2.00 Minimum Order: 24 6-Cell Packs 3 6-Cell Packs of one variety Mix and Match— UPS— 200 Varieties Call for availability and complete list WEBBER'S DUBLIN NURSERY P.O. Box 266, Dublin, NH 03444 (603)363-8180 (603)563-8272 Take Care Of All Your Plant Needs AtgLocation! • Northern-Crown "frees, Evergreens & Shrubs ' Expanded Aquatic Area ■ We Specialize In Specimen Plants • Blooms Of Bressingham Distributor O'Donal's ■HllllH1«HilllllMil!«ail!«Wn« Nurseries Ask About Delivery Service O'Donal's Ntirwriaa, Inc. 6 County Rd., RFD #4 aort\am. ME 04038 Jl■^■T^<)vs Ok Riii i>is 114 & 22 • Goimvi!. M\iNK (207» 839-4262 • FAX (207) 839-2290 M'ww.odonalinuncriu.coiD Op» 1MII.1 7,\M n> S:30™. &»TirHi«v rw in 4l-ll I he ridiilsiihiii 2004 Ail-American Selections The 2004 All America Selections were annoiinced in September. Three floral varieties and two bedding plants captured these presti- gious awards. Forecasters are likelv to be right on the money with their pre- dictions tor 'Fresh Look Red' and 'Fresh Look Yellow". These two Celosia Plumosa varieties are ready to sell like hotcakes tor you in your gar- den center next spring. They perform true to habit with tresh new plumes covering up old plumes eliminating the need lor deadheading. They are eye-catching in color and care-tree to grow. Two teatures that add up to homeowner success. Celosia plumose 'Fresh Look Yellow' Flower Award Winner 'Fresh Look Yellow' otters season-long garden color with minimal care. The golden yellow plumes are produced in abundance, at times covering the plant. The central plume can be 9 inches tall and 6 inches wide. 'Fresh Look Yellow' grows numerous side shoots, which cover mature blooms, eliminating the need tor deadheading. When grown in a tull sun garden, "Fresh Look Yellow' attains a height of about 12 to 17 inches and spreads 12 to 15 inches. Plants exhibit heat, humidity and severe weather toler- ance. Like all Celosia plumosa, flow- ers can be cut tor arrangements or dried as an everlasting bouquet. 'Fresh Look Yellow' is pertect tor busy gar- deners who want summer-long flower color on caretree plants. 'Celosia plumosa' Fresh Look Red' GOLD MEDAL Flower Award Winner 'Fresh Look Red' pertorms like a tresh floral arrangement all summer. Thriving in the summer heat and hu- midity with drought or rainy condi- tions, 'Fresh Look Red' decorates a garden or patio container with rosy red plumes. It won the coveted Gold Medal tor its consistent performance with minimal maintenance and pest- free growth. 'Fresh Look Red' covers up spent plumes by producing new foliage and blooms. The plant always looks fresh, needing no grooming. When grown in the full sun, 'Fresh Look Red' plants mature at 12 to 18 inches tall and spread 12 to 20 inches. The central plume can be 8 to 10 inches tall and 5 inches wide. Like all Celosia plumosa, the flowers can be cut and dried tor everlasting homemade bouquets. Hollyhock 'Queeny Purple' Flower Award Winner 'Queeny Purple' is the shortest Alcea rosea and the Hrst purple hollyhock available as a single color not part ot a mixture. These unique traits com- bined with season-long flower color resulted in 'Queeny Purple' winning an AAS Award. The trilly edged blooms are a '"powder putf " type hav- ing a cushion center. They measure 3 to 4 inches and are produced abun- dantly on the compact branching plants. 'Queeny Purple' plants will reach a mature height ot 20 to 30 inches, pertect tor smaller space gar- dens. 'Queeny Purple' is an annual that will flower prolifically the first year trom a February or March sow- ing. Gypsophila 'Gypsy Deep Rose' Bedding Plant Award "Winner 'Gypsy Deep Rose' is an annual G. muralis with dainty, rose-like blooms. This new variety showed several im- provements over comparisons. The flower torm is double and semi- double, it is a darker rose color and is a larger size, up to 3/8 ot an inch. The plant produces a higher number ot blooms over a longer flowering sea- son. 'Gypsy Deep Rose' forms an en- chanting mounded plant with a height ot 8 to 10 inches, spreading 12 to 14 inches. This diminutive plant prefers tull sun and adapts to container culture. "Gypsy Deep Rose' is easily grown trom seed or bedding plants. Plants require little mainte- nance. Gypsophila is often associated with weddings because ot their use in bridal bouquets. Petunia Fl 'Limbo Violet' Bed- ding Plant Award Winner 'Limbo Violet' differs from all other single grandiflora petunias as a unique combination of large flowers on a compact plant. The habit is restricted. 'Limbo Violet' plants become mounds which, at times, are completely cov- ered with blossoms. The ultimate plant size is only 6 to 7 inches tall, spreading 10 to 12 inches. 'Limbo Violet' is designed for small space gar- dens such as urban residences or for- mal gardens requiring neat, tidy plants. The dark violet blooms are perfect for gardeners who know "larger is better." At 3 inches or larger, 'Limbo Violet' blooms are huge but recover quickly from severe weather. Plants are virtually mainte- nance-free, no pinching needed. The Vegetable Winners include: 'Sweet Beauty' Watermelon 'Amy' Melon 'Sunshine' Winter Squash The 2004 AAS Winners all under- went close examination by a network of independent judges across the U.S. Each entry was given a score ranging from zero to five. The entry with the highest average scores were considered for the AAS Award. Each of the All- Amercian Selections Winners has demonstrated exceptional garden per- formance. EARLY WINTER 200.^ 17 MEMBER PROriLE Plantsman Editor Journal: BY MELISSA MOORE jt UGUET 65 I drove live miles M\ trom mv home and took part •^L in the NENA Summer Expo 2003, co-sponsored by NHPGA and hosted bv the Huntington Family. Pleasant Street in Loudon is a route a travel regularlv. I had been watch- ing the creation ot the display gardens since the growing season arrived. I was anxious to see them at their peak. With my reliable Nikon 5005, (now obsolete, but still an old friend) and notebook in hand, 1 started my garden stroll. I was thinking about my need tor floral pictures through the upcoming winter so 1 was working intentlv on capturing tiie plants at their best. As I worked, I recorded plant variety names and was drawing little maps in my notebook trying to keep my notes accurate. Bv mv second roll of film, I realized my efforts were re- dundant. I had picked up a handbook when I entered the display area as- suming it was a catalog. At this point, when I consulted it to check the spelling on a plant variety I re- alized it contained everything I needed to identify the plants throughout the entire display area. Then 1 was thankful to have in my hands such a useful tool. This Dis- play Garden Directory prepared by the Pleasant View Gardens staff cer- tainly took many hours to produce, but it is extremely valuable. To be able to walk right up to the plant, identify its color and variety, and see it in bloom is an tremendous educational experience. Together the directory and display gardens com- bine to provide prospective buyers and garden enthusiasts with valuable resources. Add to this the informa- tion that can be accessed through ihe Proven Winners website, and potential customers have many op- tions for gaining information about the inventory at Pleasant View Gar- dens. The Power of Display Gardens: After spending some time strolling through the display gardens, I have discovered the wonder of the new Coleus varieties. I have subsequently promoted Coleus varieties with ev- ery friend 1 know who loves to gar- den. I tell them, 'Next year, it's Co- leus. You fill containers with them, and their foliage makes a stunning display.' This is a complete surprise to me, because the last time 1 looked closely there were only about two or three Coleus varieties offered to consumers. I've been reading my gardening magazines, green house trade publications, and green indus- try news releases, but I missed this A sample of the numerous display gardens at Pleasant View Gardens. A handbook helped identify all plants featured in the beds, window boxes, containers, or gardens. 18 The I'liiiitsimin new trend. Where did all these vari- eties, colors, and textures come from? The new Coleus varieties have names like Texas Parking Lot, Gays Delight, and Religious Radish. They are beaiitihil! In a recent press release written by Leonard Perry at UVM, I tound some answers. A majority of these new varieties have been propagated vegetatively, rather than grown trom seed. This technique has opened up many new choices for growers. Ev- eryone benefits as they are stunning and thrive in containers, window boxes, or garden beds. Monochromatic Gardens: Really? With all the floral choices out there why limit yourself to a monochro- matic garden? However once you get started, you can create a cluster that is very diverse due to the range of colors, different types of blooms, and foliage textures. A number of beds at Pleasant View Gardens proved how beautiful this gardening style can be. Persian Shield was popular with its purple hues, next to flowers with deep violet blooms, and smaller lavender buds. Leonard Perry, UVM Extension Educator in his article "Creating A Monochoromatic Garden" encour- aged gardeners to give this style a try for a new twist. He writes, "While using massive displays of one color may seem to go against basic design principles, the overall visual impact may astound you." Mid-Day Sun is Hot By the time 1 had taken two rolls of film, the mid-day heat was at a peak, and 1 decided to wander in- side to the vendor display. When I caught up with a touring group ev- eryone was gathered around the Davis Brook Farm display. 1 arrived just in time to see and hear Warren Leach ingest an edible daylily. (Imagine having to plan your booth to have enough for displays and enough for any that are eaten!) Leach, co-owner of Tranquil Lakes Daylily Varieties Grown by Davis Brook Farin of Hancock, NH. Warren Leach of Tranquil Lake Nursery in Rehoboth, MA discussed daylilies and finished his discussion by eating one fresh bloom. Nursery in Rehoboth, MA is a gar- den designer and popular lecturer. He offered praises for a wide num- ber of products on display at the trade show. The vendor trade show and Sum- mer Expo program was a great suc- cess. Just prior to the show's open- ing, buckets of rain fell from the sky. The excess moisture saturated the fields, and threats of more bad weather, prompted the show organiz- ers to adopt "Plan B". This option worked out just fine. The PVG ware- house was big enough to accommo- date the people and their wares. Networking: John McPhail, Nil PGA chairman of the Legislative Committee found Rob Johnson in the crowd. Johnson is the Executive Director for NH Farm Bureau and offers testimony at legislative hearings on green industry issues. NHPGA has established an email-tree to alert members of up- coming legislative issues. By staying in contact with Johnson, a state house lobbyist, NHPGA can avoid any legislative surprises! Great Ideas on Display Imperial Nurseries stopped traffic with their display of "Retail Ready" plants and customized benching. Their inventory is offered in branded pots identifying them as shade plants, or sun-loving plants. They are displayed accordingly and this value added feature helps retail- ers merchandize their inventory with a high level of success. This was just one of the many innovative ideas on display at the NENA Summer Expo. Great ideas, labor saving devices, pottery, and more were present at the trade show. It was a full day with many opportunities to explore new ideas for plants! (L-R) John McPhail, owner of Gold Star Sod Farm & Nursery, Canterbury visits with Rob Johnson, Executive Director of NH Farm Bureau. John is chairman of the NHPGA Legislative Committee and Rob offers testimony at legislative hearings on green industry concerns. (L-R) Kerry Hlggins, Territory Manager for Imperial Nurseries and Tim Lomasney, Director of Business Development presented Imperial's "Retail Ready" inventory. Customized benching allows retailers to group and sell plants according to their preferred growth requirements. EARLY WINTER >m5 14 GardenScape jsjursery Building Relationships through Quality Plants from Select Growers (802)751-8400 (802) 751-8124 fax P.O. Box 350, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 info(S,newenglandnurserysales.cam S C H I C H T E LS Diverse Inventories from Regional Growers, Every Week with No Minimums! 1-800-639-1722 :«^ ^A m NURSERIES NC W^ VUIE TREE FARM/ wi Hji i-i«v £ ■■n issf m-7« ti SOD FARM +NUHSERY, INC. CHRISTMAS TREE EXPORT, LTD. SEASONS FOUR CHRISTMAS CITY GOVT. ) ^STAR ^ The professional landscaper's source for over 50 years. gold star wholesale 250 WEST ROAD 1265 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE 264 WILLOW STREET nursery, inc. CANTERBURY, NH O3224 LEXINGTON, MA O242O YARMOUTH PORT, MA O2675 TEL: 800 648 8873 TEL: 800 631 3013 TEL: 800 696 8805 fax: 603 783 4596 fax: 781 861 7608 fax: 508 775 1173 WHOLESALE NURSERY TREES • EVERGREENS • SHRUBS 200 Acres of quality plants Write for catalog Mciiihcr M.\L\. .\/;.\.1 l.^S Millers Falls Road, Turners Falls, MA 01.^76 Tel: 4 l.S 86.^-2510 Fax: 41.^-86.^-3079 jtewarts NURSERY, Inc. 20 The I'liiiilsiiKiii DIAGNOSTIC II P D A T E CHERYL SMITH The 2003 growing season was an in- teresting period tor plant diseases. Ac- tually, it was railier exciting (& still is) From my point of view, but ot course my point oi view is a 'little different' than most of yours! WET would be the best descriptor tor much of the season. This precipita- tion was the culprit tor many ot this year's prevailing problems. Woody Ornamentals Shade tree anthracnose was every- where! Wet conditions prevailed dur- ing most ot the early spring when leaves were expanding. This created the ideal conditions tor not only an- thracnose diseases, but a wide range ot leat spots as well. Anthracnose was common on maples, sycamore, ash, oak, and flowering dogwood. Apple scab was severe on susceptible crabapple cultivars, causing significant defoliation by late-July. Another prevalent leat spot was black spot on rose. So what should be done about all these toliar diseases betore next year? Sanitation should be your primary lo- cus this tall and winter. Where toliar diseases have been a problem, rake and remove as much ot the toliage as pos- sible atter leat drop, or use a mulching mower to reduce the particle size and speed degradation. Although removing infected leaves may not significantly re- duce subsequent intections tor some anthracnose diseases that also cause in- fection ot the twigs (sycamore anthra- cnose), it is effective tor most other fo- liar diseases. If particular trees or spe- cies have been problematic tor a num- ber of seasons (minus the drought years), you may want to consider fim- gicides, especially if next spring is a re- peat of this past one. Monilinia (European) shoot blight was widespread on most ornamental Prunus species particularly flowering almonds and sand cherries. Although this disease has been present for the last six to eight years, it was particu- larly severe this year. Shoots killed earlier this year should be removed during dry weather and destroyed. EARLY WINTER 2(10.^ Protective fungicide sprays may be warranted next spring on nursery stock and valuable landscape speci- mens. Fungicides should be first ap- plied when the blossoms open fol- lowed by a second application ten days later. Tip blights and cankers are still very common on trees and shrubs that have been subject to drought stress and/or winter injiiry. Dieback due to canker fungi is evident on many hosts (juniper, pine, and oak). Several fungi are associated with these cankers and dieback. Many of the fungi are considered "opportunistic;" they attack trees and shrubs under stress, particularly previous drought stress. Prune dead shoots during dry weather and destroy them. Protect ev- ergreens from winter desiccation by erecting wind-blocks. Herbaceous Ornamentals Annuals and perennials suffered from root rots and lots of foliar problems thanks to the wet conditions. Fungi that are favored by moist soil condi- tions caused most ot the root rots. Pythium root rot was very common. The best control for most of the root rot diseases is to remove the symp- tomatic plants and destroy them (don't reuse pots if they were con- tainer-grown). In the case of field grown plants, include as much of the soil surrounding the roots as possible. Botrytis blight was a big problem on bedding plants during June. It was also a problem on other crops throughout July and August (espe- cially where the plants were crowded). The best method for management of Botrytis is to improve the air circula- tion arotmd the plantings or produc- tion area. Thinning plantings, increas- ing plant spacing, removing overhang- ing branches and locating production areas away from "dead air" areas will significantly reduce not only Botrytis but also powdery mildew. Also worth noting is the fact that viruses were more prevalent this year, both in field- and 2,reenhouse-grown crops, than in recent yc.irs. It is im- portant to remember that virus-in- fected plants can't be "cured. " Any plants suspected of being infected with a virus should be destroyed (or isolated from the rest of the crop then destroyed if a virus is identified). Cuttings should not be taken from vi- rus-infected plants. Greenhouse sanitization between crops is an essential management practice. Be sure to thoroughly clean/ sanitize your greenhouse before you begin a new crop. Major sanitation targets include eliminating weeds, dust, plant debris, clutter and pet plants. All surfaces should be sanitized with products such as Oxidate, Greenshield, or 10% bleach. Preven- tion is much easier than trying to correct a problem after it occurs! Finally, SANITATION is the most important preventative measure. It has been a very favorable year for the de- velopment of diseases on nearly all plants. It is important to remove all plant debris at the end of the growing season, particularly diseased material, since it is often a source of infection the following season. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed. In- fected leaves should also be removed from broad-leaved evergreens, and dead shoots and twigs should be pruned from trees and shrubs prior to next spring (it helps to flag those shoots now so they can easily be seen later). Known diseased material should not be composted. Be sure to protect woody ornamentals against winter damage and desiccation. A little effort now can go a long way in preventing future probletns. If you wish to submit plant mate- rial to the PDL for diagnosis, send satnples (with a check tor $15.00) to: The UNH Plant Diagnostic Lab, 241Spaulding Hall— UNH, 38 Col- lege Rd., Durham, NH 03824. Samples should be accompanied by an identification form (available from your county Cooperative Extension office). Dr. Cheryl Smith is a UNH Extension Professor and the Plant Health Specialist. 21 The Robert Baker GROWING FOR YOU ... COAST TO COAST Companies 'HjFpr over 45 years, the Robert Baker Companies has been known for proxiding i;! E W Bare Root Fruit, Ornamental & Shade Trees Baker West Brokerage, Inc. email: inquinesbk@bakcrwe.st.com Premier Selected Nursery Stock WWW. r o Medford Nursery, Inc. 560- A Eayrestown-Red L.iiiii Rd. Medford, NJ 08055 p/609.267.8100 • f/609.267.0799 email: inqiiiries@medfordnur.sery.com Container Grown: Roses, Hollies, Junipers, Broadleaf Evergreens, Euonymus er.com 22 Thi' l'liiii(siiniii <^ PIONEER POINTERS Risk Management Planning Risk Management, is a popular buzz phrase in business these days. In fact, many large companies have entire departments devoted to risk management planning. Risk man- agement planning though, should not exist solely in the realm of large com- panies. Every company, regardless ot size should have its own integrated risk management plan. This is espe- cially true tor agriculture, which tends to be one of the more high-risk busi- ness ventures. Integrated Risk Management Plan- ning: Risk Management is the process by which the management ot a busi- ness identifies potential uncertain ex- posures that can have a negative im- pact on the business and develops strategies to manage these exposures. Many hirm businesses deal with risk in an incomplete and passing manner. They buy some insurance, and hope for the best. While insurance and op- timism are verv important tools tor dealing with risk, real risk manage- ment planning goes much farther. Risk management is really business planning, and any risk management plan should be integrated with the overall strategic and tactical plans ol the business. Risk management plans must be customized tor each business. These plans should consider such things as risk tolerance, goals of the owners, planning horizon, Hnancial ability ot the business to absorb adverse events, etc. On a regular basis, the plan should be reviewed and adjusted peri- odically. Integrated risk management plan- ning involves three steps: 1. Identitying areas ot risk exposure and taking steps to lessen the chances that unfavorable events may occur. 2. Developing contingency plans ahead ot time to reduce the nega- tive impact ot unfavorable events. 3. Periodically reviewing and revising the plan to adjust to an ever chang- ing business environment. Seek Professional Help: A key to de- veloping a useful risk management plan is assembling a team ot experts to address specific areas ot planning. This team may include consultants, insurance agents, attorneys, accoun- tants, crop insurance agents, etc. Also consider hiring a consultant to func- tion as the general contractor to help identity risk areas, develop mitigation and avoidance strategies, and bring in appropriate experts to address specific parts ot the plan. Examples ot Risks in Agriculture: Many experts divide risk areas in agri- culture into five primary risk areas. These include: • Production: The variability ot yields from factors such as weather, pest pressures, etc. • Marketing: Risks associated with marketing your product include risks ot price fluctuations, loss ot markets, and the financial failure of businesses you sell your product to. • Financial: May include such things as risk ot loss ot assets from a casu- alty, dramatic increases in operating costs, interest rates, or lack ot avail- able capital. Adequacy of liquidity and capital are areas ot focus when dealing with financial risks. • Legal: These risks can range from being sued tor just about anything, fined and/or imprisoned tor crimi- nal violations. • Human Resource: IIR risk can arise from disputes with and claims of employees and the resulting law- suits, and the death, disability or departure ot the owner/operator or key employee. Risk Management Planning Considerations Risk tolerance and Financial Position- ing: The foundation tor risk manage- ment planning is determining your risk tolerance. How much risk you choose to hold or avoid is an impor- tant assumption to base your plan on. The financial position of your busi- ness is also a key consideration in your risk management planning. Do you have enough equity, or liquidity to survive negative changes to your business? Good risk management planning will consider how risky the industry is that you are operating in, and will tailor financial plans to maintain adequate capital and liquid- ity. How much risk you choose to hold will affect how you should posi- tion your business financially. Risky businesses, where the owner chooses to hold a good portion ot risk should be stronger financially with much more liquidity. Think ot building fi- nancial reserves as self-insurance. Insurance: Insurance is a key tool in managing risk, and it basically in- volves paying someone else to hold a portion ot your risk. Crop insurance is important tor farmers, and should be tailored to your commodity. For nursery and greenhouse operations, crop risk may be lower on average than it is tor fruit or field crop grow- ers, but when a greenhouse loss oc- curs it is typically more concentrated, complete and costly. Crop insurance programs also offer ways to insure revenues and not just crop loss. Be EARLY WINTER 2003 sure the proper beneficiaries are desig- nated, and tiie proper eventualities are insured against, be it fire, flood, wind, insurable disease, etc. An appropriate amount ot liability insurance is neces- sary to avoid financial loss from law- suits. Pollution insurance is also very important tor farms, and the limits ot liability coverage tor pollution issues should be understood. For small tarm businesses, lite insurance and disability insurance are critical since the death or disability ot the operator could spell the end ot the business. For all insurance, having honest and knowl- edgeable insurance agents is critical. Production: Besides crop insurance, production-hedging strategies include longer term planning such as crop and varietal diversification, geographic field separation, etc., to lessen the chance ot catastrophic losses trom one event. Marketing: Most businesses need a certain minimum price, above variable costs, to meet their financial obliga- tions given their productive capacity. These tacts can influence market strat- egy and choices, niche positioning ot product lines, and consideration ot competitive advantages. Shitting market preferences and the com- moditization ot many plant products presents a significant risk element to be managed within the green indus- tries. Many agricultural commodities can minimize their price risk by hedg- ing in the futures market. Although greenhouse & nursery growers can not hedge, see the sidebar tor one example of how a grower can manage an element ot his or her marketing risk. Cost of Inputs: As tar as changes in operating costs go, consider identitv- ing and locking in major costs lor your operation to avoid being hurt by dramatic changes in price. It the cost ol debt capital is high lor your busi- ness, consider fixing ,ill or a portion ot your interest rates on your lo.ins. Consider pre-purchasing of lucl and fertilizer when prices are favorable. Opposite decisions on locking-in costs can be equally valid tor different op- erations, but the owner choosing to take the market risk (often to take advantage ot perceived potential lower total costs) needs to recognize the po- tential impact on their bottom line and have the capacity to absorb that risk. Legal Risks: The very way you struc- ture your business, and the operating entity you choose (sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership or LLC) is important to minimizing your risk trom lawsuits. How assets are owned is often more important than what type ot entity is used. Proper account- ing and meeting government "mainte- nance" requirements are also key to preserving any protection a legal en- tity may provide. Human Resource Risks: Having job descriptions, and employee handbooks can limit exposure to suits by employ- ees. Another key area is succession planning. It a key member ot the business dies or leaves, can the busi- ness survive? Final Words: The preceding list of risk areas is not meant to be an all- inclusive list ot the risks that a tarm business can face. Rather, the previous ideas are presented to get you think- ing about how all-encompassing risk planning can be, and encourage vou to develop your own integrated risk management plan. A good risk man- agement plan is a key component ot and should be integrated with the goals and strategic plans of the busi- ness. It should also be periodical Iv re- viewed and updated. First Pioneer Farm Credit provides risk nianagement consulting services to agri- cultural businesses. In doing so, our ob- jective is to look at the total business to assist the owners in moving successfully through all three of the planning steps, and to help owners evaluate the impli- cations of the decisions they choose. Contact First Pioneer for more informa- tion. Fhe Bedford Nil office can be reached at S()()-825-.U52. " Risk Planning Example: Concentration of Sale and Credit Risk Some farmers sell Iheir crop and sell il on credit terms to a small number of marketing oullels. These farms are said to have a high concenlralion of sales, and if the crops are sold on terms, credit risk. This is especially true for wholesale green- houses targeting mass-market retailers. Many farmers do not realize how large a risk this really is. Consider this example. As- sume you own a $2 million gross sales greenhouse, selling S0% of your finished material to two mass market retailers. If your payment terms are 60 days (sound fa- miliar?), you have effectively shipped all of your material to the buyer before the 1st in- voice is due. At that point you are financing their purchase of your crop. That's over a uiillion dollars of unsecured credit you are granting to two buyers. What happens if the handler's business fails after your crop is sold and gone and before they pay you for it? What would be the impact to you if your largest customer could not pay for delivered product? How far do you need to look to find a grower who has had far too personal an experience with this isstie? If this scares you. it should, r.xperts ad- vise that when selling crops on terms, you need to think like a banker. Ask yourself, would you lend your buyer SSOO.OOO with no collateral? A good risk management plan would include annual review of the financial ability of a buyer to pay you for your crop. Get your buyer's financial statements, and evaluate their financial ability to pay you for your crop. For publicly held buyers, the financials are readily available. In the case of a closely held corporation being your marketing outlet, consider recjuiring the per- sonal guarantee of the company's owners for payment of yoin- crop. For those selling food crops, knowledge of special protections offered farmers by the Perishable Agricul- tural Commodities Act of l')30 (PACA) against lo.ss from non-payment of crop pro- ceeds is important. These protections should be specifically referenced in your terms of sale. A food crop farmer should seek legal advice about PACA provisions in their mar- keting arrangements, since their marketing contract must contain S|)ecial terms and lan- guage to afford the producer its protections. the I'hiiilsiiuiii HOW ABOUT HERBS jrcit Basil (ocimum basilicum) MADELINE PERRON If I only had room for one herb in my garden, I would choose Ba- sil hands down. The varieties are so numerous that a plot of" land could have color, fragrance, and texture with basil as the main ingredient. Basil is a tender anntial, so seeds must be planted every spring and the soil temperature and overnight lows should be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit lor it to thrive. Another great wav to start basil is to winter it over in a pot on the window sill and take cuttings in the spring. This wav it vou have a unique variety that you want to propagate youll be sure that the offspring will look and taste like their mother. In Italy, basil is considered a sign ot love. If a gentleman presents a sprig of basil to a young lady, leg- end has it that she will fall deeply in love with him and never leave him. That would work tor me it he had a great spaghetti recipe to go with the sprig. The varieties are endless, with Genovese being popular tor making pesto. Spicy globe is my favorite for drving, due to its small leaves and strong spicy taste. Purple rutfles and dark opal are great tor adding color in the garden. Lettuce leat basil with its large leaves is good in sal- ads, sandwiches, or chopped on top ot sliced tomatoes with olive oil. Other popular varieties include lemon, cinnamon, and Thai basil. Thai Basil 'Siam Queen' was named a 1997 All-America Selec- tions (AAS) winner. According to the AAS, 'Siam Queen' demonstrates an improved yield. Thai basil's flavor and tragrance are distinctly ditterent. In many Thai dishes. Thai basil is added last, just prior to serving tor its tragrance and flavor. 'Siam Queen' was bred in Thailand trom local basil species. It took nu- merous generations ot plants, select- ing tor improved qualities to breed. Two additional basil varieties are harvested tor home use. Camphor basil is used as an insect repellent. Holy Basil is can be tound in teas, truit dishes and potpourri. The fact that basil is part of the mint family, explains its ability to help curb indigestion. A cup ot basil tea works quite like mint tea to aid in digestion after a meal. It also has a sedative effect that helps with nervous headaches and anxiety. In the kitchen I always have dried spicy globe basil available for salads and sauces. The pesto that I freeze in ice cube trays and pop into zip-loc bags are used in spa- ghetti sauce during the winter months. Fresh basil also has a place ot honor in a pot by my doorstep to be readily available to snip and chop over tomatoes in the summer. The clovy, anise-like peppery taste ot basil should always be avail- able for cooking, especially for Ital- ian dishes. Its certainly a favorite in this house, and deserves to be cho- sen "Herb ot the Year. " Maddy Perron is a Master Gardener with a special interest in herbs. Garden Center Greenhouses, Nursery, and Gift Shop Handmade Gifts and Decorations 656 South Mammoth Road (Rte. 28A) Manchester, NH 03109 (603) 625-8298 603-224-3754 800-370-2450 Garth Millett Auctions Inc. 126 Hall Street, Unit G Concord, NH 03301 ANTIQUES - ESTATES www.gmilIettauctionsmc.net Fax 603-228-6603 Gene Millett e-mail. auctioneer_4you®prodigy.net EARLY WINTER 200.^ 25 WveGot %uC0IVHBd With Our One-Stop Shopping. *Nursery Stock 'Bedding Plants 'Landscape Supplies 'Professional Sales Staff *Bulk Materials 'Dependable on time Delivery throughout New England. 'Quote Service 'Unique Plant Source'Finest Selection Of Nursery Stock in New England! *QUALITV J *SBRVICB ^ *S£LBCTION y *AVAILABIUTV y *VALU£ y , *D£PBNDABILITV V *KHOWUI>OE J ftU AT NORTHEAST HURSERVINC. Northeast Nursery mJ Siipplyim^ Fine Plant Material & Landscape Supvlies 234 Newbury Street Rl. I South, Peabodv. MA 01960 Tel. (978) 535-6550 Fax (978) 535-5247 CALL, FAX OR STOP BV TODAY TO FILL YOUR ORDER! wvvw.nor1heastnursery.com email info@northeastnursery.com Newton Greenhouse Quality Plants Qreen & Flowering 32 Amesbury Road, Newton, NH 03858 603-382-5289 FAX 603-382-0632 Liscensed propagator of New Guinea Impatiens Annual & Perennial Plugs, Plug & Ship Geraniums, Prefinished Plants Proven Winners, Bulbs, Holiday Crops Flowering Plants Joseph Giannino Co. Representing fine growers of quality plant material 17 North Road East Kingston, NH 03827 Office (888)948-2001 FAX(603)642-9230 www.josephgiannino.com Inside or out, Quality is covered. HPlRn#IS Fax:207-989-1553 As the authorized Harnois dealer in the Northeast, the professional staff at Greenhouse Supply, inc. will handle all your greenhouse needs. Whether you are looking for free standing or gutter connected houses, call us. GREENHOUSE SUPPLY, INC. 1-800-696-8511 email: greenhse(«'agrotech.com www.agrotech.com 2() The I'laiilsimiii w. fc lia\c a spcL'ial name tor the trees that come from our tamis — /VctieMist.'^' When you order ArcticMist,'^' you are not just buying a tree, hut all otthe time, attention, and earc — from seedlinji to shipping — that goes into ereating a safe, healthy, and beautiful (>hristmxs tree. We plant from seed to achie\e maximum <|ualit\ control. All .VcticNhst'" trees are hea\ iiy needled ami ha\e dense conical shapes. Their lovely blue color, rich fragrance, and good needle retention make them ideal ('hristmas trees. Fraser, balsam, fralsam, white spnice, and (line (white, scotch, and red) are available. Wreaths are also a\ ailable. Since our tamis are in New I lampshire and Vemiont, we harvest our trees later in the season than many odier growers. We also do exervthing we can to minimize moisture loss after harvest and during shipping. You can order the number of trees that is right for you — from 25 to a trailer load. We can arrange shipping or \()U may |iick up the trees yourself. We respect vour schedule and guarantee on time delivery. Our trees arrive indix idually wrapped and ready for sale. .\ll you need to do is renio\ e the wrappers and set the trees out — no broken branches, no kist minute trimming. T, .o place an order, or to receive specific information about this year's trees: Call us at 800/694-8722 or (iO.V2,i7-5702. Send us a fax at 6().V23 7-84.i9. ( )r w rite ti > us at .iS I? ridge St., ( lolebrook, \H 0,1S76. Our internet address is http://ww\v. sibgotree.com SibgoTree Company vie know wiml you want for Ctiristmasl ArcticMist Remember, you can only buy ArcticMisV "^ at Sibgo Tree Company TM EARLY WINTER 200.^ 27 Wj^ NEW HAMPSHIRE M ^ - rowe?s Membership Drive! Growers QUALITY GARDEN CENTERS & GROWERS We are looking for a few good (new) members. WHO DO YOU KNOW? New garden centers, growers, florists, allied industry professionals, etc. The more members we have in our organization, the more we can do tor voii and our industry. WHY JOIN? Here are just a few of the many reasons: TWILIGHT MEETINGS. A chance to visit horticultural operations around the state, talk with your colleagues, and see how another business solves the same problems you have. SUMMER TRADE SHOW. Our big event! An opportunity to meet directly with vour suppliers, make new contacts, and enjoy a great barbecue. THE PLANTSMAN. The best horticultural association publication in the Northeast. Free with every paid membership. Helps keep you up to date on our industry events, news, and legislation, along with timely articles tor better business management. CLOUT. The more members, the more clout we 11 have on the political front in Concord. In 1999 we helped pass legislation that allows non-permanent structures (hoop houses) a tax-exempt status. Membership Application Please complete the information below. Firm Operator Address Zip Code Telephone Fax E-Mail Nursery LJ Florist LJ Greenhouse Cj Garden Center D Other CH Wholesale D Retail U Would you be willing to serve on a NHPGA Committee? Yes lZI No CI MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES (please check one) I ^Companies with 1-4 full-iimc employees $75.00 LJ Companies with S-10 full-time employees $100 LJ Companies with 11-20 full-time employees Si 25 I I Companies with 21 or more lull-time employees $150 n Associate Membership $100 D Student Membership $1S I — I Employee of Member Company (can be mailed to your home) lor $15 D Senior Rate (60 + years) $50 I hereby apply for membership ,uid agree to abide by ihe by-laws established bv the New Hampshire Plant Growers' Association. Sisinature Da Please send application and check to: New Hampshire Plant Growers Association, 5 Birch Tree Lme, Bow, NH 03304 28 The I'laiilsiiian If You Are Building A Greenhouse . Call Rimol Greenhouse Systems Gutter Connect Greenhouses Free Standing Greenhouses CaH Ton Free 1-8II-746-6544 XRIMOLX ^ Greenhouse Systems, Inc. 40 Londonderry Turnpike Hooksett, NH 03106 Call For A Free Catalog Fax 603-629-9023 www.rimol.com ASSOCIATION OFFICERS President RICK SIMPSON 04 BreakFait Hill Rd., Greenland, NH 03840 436-2732 Executive Director VIRGINIA HAST 5 Birch Tree Lane, Bow, NH 03304 225-0653 email: NHPGA^TOTALNETNH.NET Directors PAUL BELHUMEUR 331 Route 101,Bedford,NH, 03110 472-8880 BRETANDRUS Churchill Garden Center 12 Hampton Rd., Exeter, NH 03833 772-2685 ROBERT DEMERS 656 S. Mammoth Rd., Manchester, NH 03103 437-6336 RON HILL 1 Adams Rd., Londonderr\', NH 03053 434-2063 JOHN McPHAIL Gold Star Nursery, Canterbury, NH 03224 783-4596 GEORGE TIMM PO Box 476, Route 137, Hancock, NH 03449 603-525-4728 Extension Liaison CATHERINE NEAL UNH/Department of Plant Biology 113 Spaulding Hall, 38 College Rd. Durham, NH 03824 862-3208 In late fall, UNH sponsored a field day to evaluate the no-pinch mum trials. This research is just one of many projects underway to help growers manage labor efficient operations. THE PLANTSMAN EDITOR UNH Research Greenhouses Durham, NH 03824 Non-profit Organization US Postage PAID Permit No. 43 HAMPSHIRE if" ^I^M NEW J» Plant Growers QUALITY GARDEN CENTERS & GROWERS