NEWHAMPSHIREPLANTGROWERS ASSOCIATION February & March 1994 se Zi fed NEWHAMPSHIREPLANTGROWERS ASSOCIATION February & March 1994 CALENDAR CONTENTS FeBruary FEBRUARY 20-26 National FFA Weefe FEBRUARY 23 Vermont Plantsmens Association Annual Meeting, Holiday Inn, Rutland, VT; for information: (802) 244-7048. FEBRUARY 24-27 The Rhode Island State Flower Show, Convention Cen- ter, Providence Rl; for information: Ken Lagerquist at (508) 761-9260. FEBRUARY 26-27 FTD Region One Convention, Newton, MA; for informa- tion: Ray Savage at (603) 352-1155. March MARCH 5-6 Vermont Plantsmen's Association Lawn & Garden Show, Sheraton, S. Burlington, VT: for information: (802) 244-7048. MARCH 6 Florel "Workshop, Konjoian's Floriculture Education Services, Inc., Andover, MA; for in- formation: Peter Konjoian at (508) 683-1 1 14. MARCH 5-13 New England Spring Flower Show, Bayside Exposition Center, Boston, MA; for more: Mas- sachusetts Horticultural Society at (617) 536-9280. MARCH 16 New Hampshire Landscape Association Spring Conference, Barton Hall, UNH, Durham, NH; for more: 1-800-639-5601. MARCH 16 Maine Landscape and Nurserij Association (MLNA) Twilight Meeting, part of the Southern Maine Technical College Plant and Soil Department Distinguished Lecture Series, 4:00 PM, SMTC, South Port- land, ME; for information: (207) 225-3998. MARCH 25-26 2ith Annual University of New Hampshire Greenhouse Open House, Plant Biology and Thompson School Greenhouses, Durham, NH; for information: Otho Wells at (603) 862-3208. April APRIL 28-MAY 1 Third Annual New Hampshire Orchid Society Show. (AOS approved), Bedford Mall, Bedford, NH; for information: (603) 654-5070. May MAY 1 3 New Hampshire State FFA Competitions, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH; for infor- mation: Dave Howell at (603) 862- 1760. ]une JUNE 9-11 International Lilac Society Meeting. University of New Hamp- shire, Durham, NH; for information: Owen Rogers at (603) 862-3222. ^ lUNE 16 New Hampshire Plant Growers' Association Twilight Meeting. D. S. Cole Growers. Loudon, NH; 6-8 PM; for information: Doug Cole at (603) 783-9561. ]uly JULY 9-13 International Floriculture Industry Short Course, Cincinnati, Ohio; for more: (614) 487-1117. JULY 12-15 AAN Convention, Balti- more, MD; (202) 789-2900. JULY 14-16 MANTS, Baltimore, MD; (301) 256-6474. JULY 26-28 PANTS, King of Prussia, PA; (717) 238-1673. August AUGUST 10 NENA Summer Meeting. Aqua Turf, Southington, CT; for in- formation: (617) 431-1595. ^ AUGUST 17 New Hampshire Plant Growers Association Summer Meet- ing, Ledgewood Farm, Moultonboro, NH; co-hosted by Spider Web Gardens, Center Tuftonboro; for information: Chris Robarge at (603) 862-1074. AUGUST 26-SEPTEMBER 3 Profes- sional Plant Growers Association (PPGA) Technical Tour of Denmark; for infor- mation: 1-800-647-PPGA. September SEPTEMBER 22-27 27th International PPGA Conference and Trade Show. Buf- falo, NY; for more: 1-800-647-PPGA. October OCTOBER 17-19 New England Green- house Conference, Sheraton Sturbridge Inn, Sturbridge, MA; for informa- tion: Henry Huntington at (603) 435-8361. The Illustration on the cover and page 23 is by GRACE N. AZNIVE, and appeared in Appalacfila, |une 1933. The illustration on this page, also by Ms. Aznive, appeared in Appalacfiia in December of the same year. FORDM FROM THE BOARD HOT ANNUALS FOR SUNNY LOCATIONS Ro^er Warren NH NEWS 7 ELSEWHERE IN THE NEWS 12 WILDFLOWERS ON 15 NEW HAMPSHIRE ROADSIDES Thomas ). Cilligan. P.E. MEMBER PROFILE 20 BURSEY'S: GOOD DESIGN MAKES GREAT MARKETING THE SPLENDOR OF BONSAI 23 EAST AND WEST Patricf; J. McGowan LIVING WITH REGULATIONS 25 William Zweigbaum The Plantsman is published in early Febniaiy, April. June, August, October, and December with copy deadlines being the first of each prior month. Wiiile camera-ready ads are preferred, set-up assistance is available at a nominal fee. Free classified advertising is offered as a mem- ber service. We will carry a short message (no artwork or logos) for one or two issues of The Plantsman. AD SIZE 6x Ix 3 3/8 w X 2 l/4"h $120 $30 3 3/8"w X 4 3/4"h $160 $40 7"w X 2 l/4-h $160 $40 7"w X 4 5/8 "h $250 $50 7"w X 9 l/2"h $400 $100 For further information, please contact the edi- tor: Robert Parker at the UNH Research Green- houses, Durham, NH 03824, (603) 862-2061; or PO Box 5. Newfields,NH 03856, (603) 778-8353. February & March 1994 1 GRIFFIN GREENHOUSE AND NURSERY SUPPUES Best Buy Package! HOUS6 Inflation Busier Pipe Franne; Oki-Pet Base Rail & Insert; One year film 4 mil #701 28' X 100' 17x48' ir x96' ;.^_v^ Heating Options Siebring Quantum Heater Oil-fired Forced Hot Air with Stack Pipe from gable end out; Single-Stage SensorStat Temperature Controller $2411 $2953 Modine Heater Gas-fired Forced Hot Air with LP Conversion Kit and Stack Pipe from the unit out, Two-Leg Heater Hanger Kit, Single-Stage SensorStat Temperature Controller $1566 $2376 Mass: 508.851-4346 NY: 518-786.3500 Thru 4/30/94 BARK MULCH DIVISION P. O. Box 527, Route 122 Poland Spring, Maine 04274 NURSERY DIVISION: P. O. Box 56. Route 10 East Umpster, N.H. 03605 WHOLESALE SUPPLIERS Jolly Farmer PRODUCTS WHOLESALE GROWERS • Bark Mulch - Hemlock . Mix & Cedar... by the Tractor-Trailer load. • Bagged Mulch - Our own bat1< muk:h now available in 2 and 3 cu.tt. bags.. .Hemlock, Pine-Spruce, Cedar, Spruce-Hemlock & Dark Bark. Also. ..Pine Bark Nuggets & Mini Nuggets. • Bagged Soils & Manures - Top soii. Potting Soil, Peat Humus, Peat Moss, Composted & Dehydrated Cow Manures. • Cut & Spilt Firewood Telephone: 1-800-879-2275 1-207-998-5580 1-207-998-2006 Annual Plugs Rooted Cuttings Geraniums Bedding Plants Potted Annuals Hanging Baskets Fall Mums Cyclamen...Liners, Finished PoinsettiaS...Cuttings, Finished Telephone: FAX: FAX: "Integrity, quality and reliable service since 1967" 1-800-695-8300 1-603-863-3370 1-603-863-7814 The Planisman '^- FORUM '^ Minutes November 15, 1993, Meeting of the New Hampshire Horticultural Society, NH Department of Agriculture Conference Room, Concord Present: Erick Leadbeater, Presi- dent, NHHS; Richard Harrington, President, Small Fruit Growers' Association; Chuck Souther, Presi- dent, Fruit Growers' Association; Steve Gatconnbe, President-elect, Fruit Growers' Association; Bill Lord, UNH Cooperative Extension; Gail McWilliam, NH Department of Agriculture The meeting opened at 9 am with an informal discussion of the Society and status of member asso- ciations. Concern was expressed over lack of representation from each of the member divisions (fruit, vegetable, plant, blueberry, and small fruit grower associations). It was determined that both the Potato Grower and Grape Grower Associations were defunct. Bob Harrington mentioned that the Small Fruit Growers may consider merging with the Vegetable Grow- ers Association. The two groups al- ready do some programs together and there is apparently interest on the part of both organizations to combine. As a result, the divisions of the Society have been reduced to five and possibly four. This led to a discussion of the possibility of changing the Society's constitution to expand membership to such or- ganizations as the Forage Council, the Turf Association, the Christmas Tree Growers, etc. Those present decided that an attempt should be made to revive the original mem- bership before adding new. Chuck mentioned that the main reason for bring the Society to- gether after an eleven-year lapse was that one member of the Pesti- cide Control Board represents the NHHS and without an active Soci- ety, he'd be concerned about changes in the selection process and representation of the horticul- ture industry. Because representa- tion from the NHHS is written into the RSA, he felt it was important to revive the NHHS. Members of the Pesticide Coun- cil Board serve a three-year term and are eligible for unlimited reap- pointment. Currently, Jeff Hunting- ton represents the NHHS on the Board. As his recent term just ex- pired, the motion was made by Erick and seconded by Bob to nominate )eff for re-appointment to the Board. The motion passed unanimously and Erick will write a letter to Steve Taylor regarding the nomination. According to the NHHS constitu- tion, member associations pay $25/ year dues. Those present decided that the treasury be renewed with a $25 membership payment from the Fruit Growers' Association. The Fruit Growers will be asked to be fiscal agents for the Society and oversee the treasury — at least for the time being. Member associations not repre- sented at this meeting will receive a copy of the minutes. Members will receive an invitation to attend a NHHS organizational meeting on April 4, 1994. This date is the first Monday in April, which — as speci- fied in the constitution, is the an- nual meeting date of the Society. CLASSIFIED WANTED: HANDS-ON LAND- SCAPE. HORTICULTURAL, AND NURSERY MANAGER to oversee all aspects of a large garden and nursery. Need to be knowledgeable about lawn care, roses, indoor/ outdoor plant care, formal gar- dens, ponds, irrigation, nursery production, and related activi- ties. Proficient knowledge of IPM and current related pesti- cide licenses a must. Send re- sume, references, and salary history to: Bayberry Nurseries, 153 Kensington Road, Hampton Falls, NH 03844. At that meeting, more discussion about goals and membership will take place. The meeting adjourned at 10:30 am. Respectfully Submitted, Gail McWilliam. Recording Secretary Notice Any New Hampshire business inter- ested in looking into the possibil- ity of exporting its products can contact the New Hampshire Depart- ment of Resources and Economic Development's International Trade Resource Center, at 601 Spaulding Turnpike, Suite 29. Portsmouth, NH 03801, for information and a variety of programs and services. These include one-on-one counseling, market research and development, and education and training semi- nars. For more, call (603) 334-6074. V "WHOLESAU Price List Available PERENNIAL - HERBS - WILDFLOWERS 80 Varieties in 6-cell packs UPS Shipping Available ROUTE 101 P.O. Box 26 Dublin^ N.H. 603-56^-8180 Annuals bedding Plants (6 cell packs) Zonal Geraniurns-4 H; ' pot Hardy Mums in season 3H;qt.pan Perenials available in 2qt. - 3qt. - 4qt. and 6qt. pots February &^ March 1994 i This Is What We Grow At Millican Nurseries. HART'S 'seeds ' OUAUTT SINCE IBM 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 Northern Grown Irees Evergreens Shrubs Mon-Sac 7:00 - 5:30 Sun: 9:00 - 5:00 Loated at junction of routes 22 & 114 Gorham. Maine 04038 Phone (207) 839-4262 or 839-6364 Fax 207-839-2290 We specialize in growing ^imen plant materiahi LAN NURSERIES ® will deliver during all the summer Spireas Potentillas Dogwoods Hydrangeas No taxes No duties No freight charges Call or fax us at (819) 843-5071 The Plantsman -*?- i^ FROM THE BOARD Growing Tips Hot Annuals for Sunny Locations Roger "barren This is the information used on one of the three sheets prepared for dis- tribution at Farm & Forest. These were meant to promote both the Asso- ciation and the products it sells. There were two other sheets — one pro- moting Astilbe and the other, crab apples. Are these available at your business? Do you have suggestions for other plants for other years? LITTLE-KNOWN Scaevola Aemula Blue Wonder' "The ultimate blue hanging basket plant" — One-inch blue fan-shaped flowers — heavy flowering and very fast growing. Loves heat and hu- midity. Water frequently. (Hanging baskets, planters or as ground cover.) Sun-lovers Fast-growing, heat-loving, ever- blooming petunia-like — use in hanging baskets, planters, or as a ground cover (will trail or spread to six feet). Pampas Fire — violet/magenta flowers Sweet Victory — hot pink Cupfiea fiyssopifolia Lavender Lace' (Mexican Heather) Hot summer days and lots of water. A multitude of miniature purple flowers on glossy lace-like green foliage. (Hanging baskets, planters, or in the garden.) TRIED-AND-TRUE Gazanla Hot colors for sunny, dry areas. Must have well-drained soil. Or- ange, white, yellow, pink, rose, gold, russet, and bi-colors. Three- to-four inch flowers close at sunset and on cloudy days. Use as bor- der plant along asphalt or pave- ment. Excellent in the rock gar- den. Look for: 'Mini-Star' (six inches high); 'Daybreak' series (eight inches); Chansonette (ten inches); 'Pinata' series (twelve inches) Portulaca (Moss Rose) loves hot, dry, well-drained — even sandy — soil. Low-growing (three inches at most) border, container. or rock garden plant. Wide color range: red, pink, yellow, coral, and white. Look for: 'Sundial' series; 'Calypso;' 'Sundance.' Verbena Lies full sun with ample watering, but is drought-tolerant. Very heavy flowering. Use to edge a bed, car- pet a slope, cascade over a wall, or in a planter or window box. Look for: 'Imagination' (violet/blue); 'Val- entine' (red with white eye); 'Val- entine Light Blue;' or 'Romance' series. Cosmos and Cleome Tried and true tall accent plants. Cosmos: 'Sensation' series (three-to four-feet, mixed colors); Sonata' (dwarf white — two feet); 'Diablo' (gold, orange, or red). Cleome (Spider Flower) is tall and airy, reaching at least three feet and is available in pink, rose, purple, and white. Wax begonias or Fibrous-rooted begonias This is an old-time, but underused, bedding plant in New Hampshire. Low maintenance, flowers and foli- age provide reliable color all sum- mer. They can tolerate more sun and heat than is generally be- lieved, especially here in the north. Flowers are pink, red, or white against green or bronze foli- age. Look for 'Cocktail' series (bronze foliage); 'Wings' series; Am- bassador or 'Party' series; also the newer 'Cherry Blossom' or 'Richmondensis.'>* Those of you who would like lo comment on the "Crowing Tips" sheets can send a post card to: Roger barren, Box 318, Meriden, NH 03770. HOW ABOUT HERBS In planning for this period next year, think about herbs. Herbs can be just the right amount of green for a customer's post-holiday win- dow sill. Basil is a good choice be- cause it's popular in cooking and can grow in low winter light. Sweet basil, lettuce leaf basil, and the purple "Dark Opal" are all fine. Lemon, licorice, and cinnamon basils have the flavors of their names. Seed directly into bright cheery pots. (For lanuary sales, start in mid-December.) And encourage the customer to nip out the top leaves for salads — this'll keep the seed- lings sturdy and encourage new growth. These aren't meant for holding over for the garden, but for use right now. Mint — spearmint, pepper- mint— is another good herb for the winter sills — but you need a stock plant: cuttings work best. Small chive plants are nice too. Pot up small clumps of onion or garlic chive from stock plants that have already had some cold treatment. Cut them back and let them regrow. As they grow again, the customer can snip off the greens for cook- ing. Not big items — just some- thing to fill the snowy gap be- tween Christmas and Valen- tines Day. »•- Tanya \ackson, well-known area herbalist, can be reached at (603) 431-6774. February &. March 1994 ■^- -i^ /"» HARNESS THE SUN!!! SUN-MATE FOR THE 90'S! 1, 2, 3 TEMPERED GLASS SKINS OR G.E. LEXAN OR ACRYLIC PLASTIC PANEL SKINS. SINGLE TEMPERED GLASS LEAST COSTLY AND PERMANENT. TEMPERED GLASS ARCH RE-SKIN A SPECIALTY See our tempered glass re-skin at UNH. We were chosen for high light, low mainten- ance, and permanent performance re-skin, G.E. LEXAN AND ACRYUC PLASTIC PANELS NEWOR RENEW. 10 YEAR WARRANTY BY MFGR. Lexan Re-skin packages for old glass or plastic re-skin, prefabbed, instructions, and plans for easy installation or labor installed. THIS IS THE HEART OF SUN-MATE SINGLE TEMPERED GLASS LOWEST COST AND PERMANENT!! ADD 2ND OR 3RD SKIN LATER!! •PIGGYBACK" Re-skin 1, 2, 3 tempered glass skins on old alum, glass greenhouses. Prefabricated package easy to install with plans & instructions or labor installed. A^'?^;^ WINANDY GREENHOUSE COMPANY INC. " ' "''"' 935-2111 NEW 2211 Peacock Road, Richmond, Indiana 47374 SUN -MATE TEMPERED GLASS "LOW SNOW" GREENHOUSES FROM $3.00 SO FT. EASY TO ERECT AND LIVE WITHI COMPLETE PREFAB. AND INSTRUCTIONS YOU CAN RE-SKIN OR ERECT WITH INEXPERIENCED LABOR AND "SAVE-Jl! No. 4.658,339 RENEW SUN-MATE RE-SKIN AND REPLACEMENT VENTS LESS INVESTMENT THAN WOOD A Weston Nurseries Introduction A phrase which stands for the very best that fifty years of horticultural innovation and testing can produce. Weston Nurseries is proud to have developed and introduced these outstanding plants for the benefit of the American Nursery Industry. Rhododendroom PM] (Hybridized m 1940) FOR THE FINEST "NEW ENGLAND-GROWN" PLANTS, VISIT OUR WHOLESALE SALES YARD OR CALL AND ASK FOR DAVE WALKER OR TOM WILLIAMS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO HELPING YOU. Rhododendron PMJ (1940)' Rhododendron Hfenry's Red (1958)* Rhododendron Shrimp Pink Hybrids (1958)* Rhododendron Agio ( 1964)* Rhododendron Olga Mezitt (1964)* Rhododendron Weston's Pink Diamond (1964)* Rhododendron Molly Fordham (1966)* Rhododendron Milestone (1972)* Rhododendron April Snow ( 1978)* Aialea Jane Abbon (1942)* Azalea Vyking (1958)* Azalea Pink and Sweet ( 1963)* Azalea Parade (1963)* Azalea Golden Showers (1963)* Azalea Pink Clusters (1972)* * Year Hybridized Since 1923 Weston Nurseries I Inc. ^-* nf i-tr\r\Uintr\n 9h ot Hopkinton Growing New England's largest variety of landscape-size plants, shrubs, trees and perennials. E. Main St. (Rte. 135), P.O. Box 186, Hopkinton, MA 01748 Tel. (508)435-3414, From Boston 235-3431, Toll free in MA, 1-800-322-2002 FAX 508-435-3274. The Plantsman ■m- ^ NEW HAMPSHIRE NEWS Agricultural Marketing Council Planned Plans are being finalized by the Department of Agriculture, Division of Agricultural Development, to implement a New Hampshire Agri- cultural Marketing Council. The council would be composed of rep- resentatives of the various New Hampshire commodity groups (in- cluding the Plant Growers), as well as agencies such as the Farm Bu- reau and Cooperative Extension. The purpose of the council is to identify needs, then create projects with which to jointly promote New Hampshire agriculture. "Agriculture contributes substan- tial dollars to New Hampshire's exconomy — approximately $300 mil- lion annually," according to Gail McWilliam, Director of the Division of Agricultural Development. "And that's just the estimated value of products and does not include re- lated services, industries, etc. However, numberwise, agriculture represents a small percentage of the state's population, it is im- perative for all of us to work to- gether to tell the story of New Hampshire agriculture. We hope this council will help to identify common marketing issues across all commodities and begin to jointly address those issues." For more information about the proposed Agricultural Marketing Council, contact Gail McWilliam at (603) 271-3788. relatives living in New Hampshire. He went to the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he re- ceived a BS in a combined major of Animal Science and Agricultural Extension. He received his Mas- ters in Agricultural Extension from the University of Florida in 1992. From there he went to Ohio. But the memory of his vacations in New Hampshire stayed with him and when a chance came up to work here, he applied. His interests seem varied — he mentioned visiting diary farmers in the Connecticut River Valley and having an interest in ornamental and cut-flower production. He'd like to start a Master Gardener Program. ..work on the more 'urban' issues of waste reduction and water quality. ..work on sustainable agriculture... marketing.... Paul's energy and enthusiasm will be felt in Sullivan County. We wish him success. New Officers The 1994 Board of Directors of the New Hampshire Landscape Associa- tion include Bill Gardocki, Presi- dent; Rick Rideout, Vice-President; Herb Rice, Secretary/Treasurer; Chuck Simpson, Director/Past Presi- dent, and Mark Rynearson, Anne Colby-Hines, and Chris Beasley, Di- rectors. Guy Hodgdon will con- tinue as Business Manager. Con- gratulations; we wish you a suc- cessful year. A New Face in Newport The Loss of a Gardener As of December 13, 1993, Paul Rees is Extension Educator for Ag- ricultural Research at the Sullivan County Extension Office in New- port. He replaces Gail McWiliam, who is now Director of Agricultural Marketing at the state level. Paul and his wife Lori come to New Hampshire from Ohio where he was a member of the extension faculty at Ohio State. (He did a lot of 4-H work while he was there.) But his journey to New Hamp- shire is not as simple as that. He was born in Wales; his parents moved to Florida and while he was growing up, they vacationed with It's sad to report the death of Rob- ert H. Deane, 62, of Nottingham on November 24. Although he was not a plant grower in a commercial sense, he was a plant lover and se- rious gardener and was known by many NHPGA members. Mr. Deane was a registered nurse. He'd worked at the Eliot Hospital, the Concord Clinic, and the UNH Health Services. After re- tirement, he devoted his energies to many community service activi- ties. He was very active in AIDS relief, and was a member of the Ecumenical AIDS Task Force. He worked at the Manchester Soup Kitchen and managed the Food Pantry at the Manchester Congrega- tional Church. He was also a mem- ber and past president of the New England Hosta Society. The son of Horace and Gladys (Verville) Deane of Manchester, he leaves his wife of 29 years, Nancy (Hilts) Deane of Nottingham, a brother Larry of Londonderry, nieces, nephews, and other family members, and many friends and colleagues. Burial was in the Southside Cemetery in Nottingham. Memorial donations may be made to the AIDS Ministry of the First Congre- gational Church, 50 Union Street, Manchester, NH 03104; the Tilton School Scholarship Program, Tilton, NH 03276; or to the American Dia- betes Association, New Hampshire Affiliate, PO Box 595. Manchester, NH 03105. Rest Area Promotions The New Hampshire Departments of Agriculture, Tourism, and Trans- portation are encouraging agricul- tural promotion at highway rest areas. Here's how it would work: a dis- play or demonstration featuring the commodity could be set up during a high-traffic timeslot (Friday or Saturday, for example) at an in- bound rest area. The display could include posters, product samples, hands-on demonstrations, etc. No products can be sold during the promotion, but business cards and brochures can be given out. (Mis- use of the opportunity will result in suspension of the program.) So far, apple and maple produc- ers have participated in these rest area promotions. Response has been positive. For information, contact Gail McWilliam at (603) 271-3788. Alternate Farm and Forest Enterprises Interest in alternative farm and for- est enterprises has increased in re- cent years among both farm and non-farm families. Some are look- ing for new ways to generate in- come. Others see nontraditional February 8. March 1994 NewtonGreenhouse 32 Amesbury Road, Newton, NH 03858 603-382-5289 QuaUtyPlants greenandjknvering from21/2"tol0"pots Holiday, bedding plants, & dish gardens year round cut snaps, pot mums, Gloxinias and African violets licensed propagator of Mikkelsen & Ecke New Guinea Impatiens MRCHMONr IRRIGATION/SNOWMAKING in Manchester, NH Providing all your irrigation needs. Design Services also available. 180 Zachary Rd. Unit «3 Manchester, N.H. 03101 (603) 622-8825 >xn\\\\\\\ 1-800-558-9888 IN NH ONLY Cabeenteb§ "The Qeranium Specialists" Wholesale Growers 2 1/2" Geraniums (year round) 4" Pre-finished Geraniums 2 1/2" Ivy Geraniums & Fuchsia Martha Washington Geraniums Spring Hanging Baskets, Lilies/Bulbs Azaleas, Cyclamen, Poinsettias, Foliage JOHN B. CARPENTER, President ROBERT ]. CARPENTER, General Manager 603/659-3391 220 SOUTH MAIN STREET NEWMARKET, NH 03857 ® Dld^DN PRODUCTS COMPANY Lawn & Garden Limestone Decorative Landscape Stone White Plays and Bagged Bark Mulch Robert F. Myers 28 Horseshoe Drive, Scarborough, ME 04074 (800) 541-9127 The Plantsman '^- ■i^ NEW HAMPSHIRE NEWS enterprises as a way to get started in commercial farming or woodlot management or a means of support for a rural way of life. To explore opportunities, The University of New Hampshire and the University of IMaine Co-opera- tive Extension are co-sponsoring a workshop series on alternative en- terprises. This is being held on six consecutive Wednesday mornings beginning on February ninth at the Urban Forestry Center in Ports- mouth, NH. Although this series will have begun by the time you receive this issue of The Planlsman, if you're in- terested in attending the remaining sessions, contact the York County Extension Office at 1-800-287-1535 (if calling from Maine ) or 207-324- 2814 (from out-of-state). Bills Several bills up for consideration in the 1994 Session of the General Court may be of interest to Plant Grower Association members. Two deal with the composition of the pesticide board. House Bill 1533 would add a member representing municipal in- terests, designated by the New Hampshire Municipal Association. (This would bring the board's membership to 12.) House Bill 1512-FN would add two new public members to the board and clarifies that state em- ployee members should be depart- ment commissioners or division di- rectors or their designates. This bill also establishes a citi- zens advisory committee to advise the board on local matters. House Bill 1185 deals with the Pesticide Board's duties, it would require the board "to establish continuing education requirements for commercial and private applica- tors of pesticides. The board may establish a fee if necessary. The bill also requires the board to adopt rules for the monitoring of the application of pesticides for compliance with the law." House Bill 1471-FN-LOCAL would repeal the preemption of local DIAGNOSTIC UPDATE If you have ever wondered which plant 'diseases' may be poten- tial problems in the upcoming months, or what the problems have been over the last few months, then this column will now pro- vide that information in this and future issues. The information is summarized from the samples diagnosed in the Plant Disease Diag- nostic Lab (PDDL). For this issue, ill provide some highlights (or lowlights, depending upon your point of view) from 1993, as vffell as hints on what to watch for in the upcoming months (based on past PDDL records). In 1993, 502 samples were received in the PDDL; 52% were com- mercial samples, and 48% were from homeowners. The breakdown by commodities was: Turf (6%), Christmas Tree — commercial only (6%), Greenhouse — commercial only (11%), Woody Ornamentals (38%), and Herbaceous Ornamentals (10%). The remainder of the samples were fruit, vegetables, houseplants, and miscellaneous (such as slime molds). There were fewer cases of Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV) in 1993 than in '91 or '92, hopefully because of better quality plants and a greater awareness of the problem. There were severe outbreaks of both Sycamore and Ash Anthracnose in the southern third of the state (Sycamore Anthracnose was particu- larly severe in Cheshire and Sullivan Counties). The shoot blight phase of Brown Rot was severe on most Prunus species during May- June. Three cases of Bacterial Blight of geranium were diagnosed between August and October (other states' diagnostic labs have also seen cases of bacterial blight, so monitor your crops). In general, the sample load was lighter early in the growing season relative to previous years due to the dry weather (at least in the southern por- tions of the state). Most of the potential problems during the next couple of months are limited to greenhouse crops. Root rots such as Pythium and Rhizoctionia are common problems, especially if the plants are over-watered. Botyrtis (Grey Mold) is always present, but becomes particularly troublesome when the relative humidity is high, so be sure to space plants properly, provide good air circulation, don't over-water, and remove senescent tissues (such as old flowers). Be sure to scout all in-coming material for thrips and TSWV (also, try to keep seed-propagated and vegetatively-propagated material sepa- rated— TSWV doesn't seem to be seed transmitted). >•- If you wish to submit plant material to the PDDL for diagnosis, send samples lo: Dr. Cheryl Smit^, Plant Disease Dia^Mosdc Lab, Nesmith Hall, UNH, Durham. NH 03824. Samples should be accompanied by an identification form (available from your County Cooperative Extension Office). There is no fee [at this time). Cheryl Smith is the UNH Cooperative Extension Specialist in Plant Health, and can be reached at (603) 862-3841. February &^ March 1994 -?♦- Sub- Irrigation Trough From TAK CAN: • Fit on Most Existing Benches • Water Entire Greenhouse in 8 Minutes • Cut Water and Fertilizer Use by 50% • Water Potted Crops with Perfect Uniformity For Growing and Installation Information, CALL (603) 753-8250 Satisfaction Guaranteed or Money Back! Ask for Details TAK Equipment, Inc., 80 River Road, Penacook, NH 03303 NORTHERN NURSERIES WHOLESALE HORTICULTURAL DISTRIBUTION CENTERS U.S. Route 5, White River Junction, VT 05001 16 Pinkham Road West, Barrington, Nh 03825 } i^' SERVING THE PROFESSIONAL WITH ABOVE GROUND PLANT MATERIAI. Distributors in the following lines: • Lofts Seeds . Birchmeier Sprayers • DeWitt Weed Barrier • Lebanon Turt" Fertilizers • Corona Hand Tools • Mulch & Grow Hysroseeding Fiber • Earthway Spreaders • Nursery' & Landscape Supplies Contact: Jim Babb, Mgr., White River Junction, VT, (802) 295-2117 Bob Averell, Mgr., Barrington, NH, (603) 868-7172 GOOD SERVICE • DEPENDABLE QUALITY • CONVENIENT LOCATION 10 The Plantsman '^- ^ NEW HAMPSHIRE NEWS regulation in the area of pesticide use, registration, sale and transpor- tation. Hearings on these bills were scheduled for lanuary 20. For more information contact Bill Stockman at (603) 569-5056. Showtime '94 One year ago — on January 10, 1993, at four in the afternoon — the Ports- mouth Visiting Nurses Association had officially secured a location for their 1993 show. But as of 4:00, January 10, 1994, the problem of finding a location had not been resolved. Brenda Schure, the shows coor- dinator, continued to be optimistic, but did admit that time was run- ning out. For updates, call Brenda at (603) 436-0815. •^ Two other shows are on. The an- nual University of New Hampshire Greenhouse Open House, a com- bined effort of the UNH Plant Biol- ogy Department and Thompson School, will be held on March 25- 26 at the Greenhouse Complex on Mast Road Extension, Durham. 1994 is the show's 24th year and its for- mat remains traditional: free soil tests, displays and demonstrations, a full schedule of talks, and lots of people around to answer ques- tions. Lots of practical information. For more, contact Otho Wells at (603) 862-3208. And the New Hampshire Orchid Society Show will be held at the Bedford Mall, Bedford. There's a preview party at 7:00 PM on the 28th ($15 per person)— hors d'oeuvres, maybe music, and a chance to see the plants at their very best. The show runs for three days (April 29-May 1), with dis- plays, sales, an audiovisual presen- tation and educational program. Door prizes include "significant plants." For more information, con- tact Joanna Eckstom at (603) 654- 5070. ^ TIPS from the Griffin Guru Before The Barn Door Is Closed and Locked We received a "Member Alert" from one of the many trade associations to which we belong which made us aware that a local town government had proposed lo- cal pesticide regulations. The alert stated the time and lo- cation of the public hearing to be held on the matter. The question is not whether the proposal is good or bad. The question is whether to attend the hearing to present your views. We believe it is your re- sponsibility to be aware of things going on in your com- munity that could have impact on our industry. We also be- lieve that belonging to a trade organization gives you a stronger voice when you wish to confront a situation. Often your association can provide information on the subject as well as someone to speak on your behalf. The time to address the subject is when the barn door is still open — not after it's closed and locked. >^ The More You Grow, The Mom You Know. We've been in this business a long lime. We know our J^ f^^^OTtHCClSt NUTSCVy. ItlC. ■iiQinmpr'"; npprl<; anrl rlpmandii II rloscn'l make a difference of the ' ^^ 'V^ "^ " re've been in this business a long lime. We know our customer's needs and demands, li doscn't make a difference of the , ^^ lime of year or the size of the projecu Northeast Nursery covers it f ^J all. With the widest selection in wholesale plant materials and ^^ landscape supplies in all of New England it's no wonder many consider Northeast Nursery the best One-Slop shopping for all your landscape and green supplies. Supplying Fine Plant Material & Landscape Supplies 234 Newbury Street, Rt. 1 South Peabody, MA 01960 Tel. (508) 535-6550 Fax (508) 535-5247 February &^ March 1994 11 -»? -^ ELSEWHERE IN THE NEWS Winners from Everyivhere ALL-AMERICA SELECTIONS Three winners — two vegetables and an herb — were chosen by the Ail- Annerica Selections judges this year. The vegetables are Cucumber F- 1 Fanfare and Tomato F-1 Big Beef. "'Fanfare' offers gardeners a slicing cucumber with restricted vines without the loss of yield, vigor or fruit quality." The first fruit (8 to 9 inches long; 10 ounces) should be ready for harvest around 63 days after sowing seed. Big Beef produces Beefsteak size (8 ounces to one pound) fruit very early in the season (in about 73 days after transplanting) and continues to produce throughout the season. Sow seed 4 to 6 weeks before planting outside; seed should sprout within seven days. The herb is an English laven- der— Lavender Lady' — which can be relied on for flowers its first year. Other improved qualities in- clude "the earliness of bloom and the consistency and profusion of flower spikes." It's hardy to Zone 5. Start seeds indoors 6-12 weeks prior to planting outside. The seed requires light, so do not cover with media. Germi- nation takes 14-20 days. VJhile growing indoors, allow soil to dry out between waterings, but do not allow plants to wilt. "We don't sell seed," Mary Neilson, AAS Assistant Manager, says; "We test and introduce new varieties as AAS Winners, but to purchase seed, we suggest you contact your favorite seed supplier." FLORASTAR {from PPGA News, December, 1993) The FloraStar Board of Directors re- cently introduced 'Christine,' a gar- den mum from 'Voder Brothers' Prophets series. (The FloraStar trail- ing program recognizes and pro- motes outstanding new varieties of potted plants and fosters industry marketing efforts.) The judges described 'Chris- tine's vibrant bronze color as "su- perior," and also commented upon the fact that it didn't fade and that the flowers lasted longer. Cultural practices are the same as for other garden mums. Plant in moist me- dia, just deep enough to cover the roots. Use constant liquid feed based on 250 ppm nitrogen, adjusting up or down as needed. {Slow release fertilizer can be substituted.) Wafer thoroughly; never allowing mums to wilt in early stages of growth. \n later stages, slight wilt can help by hardening off the plant, controlling height, and promoting more uniform flowering. Pinch off 1/2 inch when the plants have 1-1/2 inches of new growth, about 10 to 14 days after planting. Second and third pinches may be given when beaks are 3-4 inches long. Hard-pinch any budded cuttings 3-5 days after planting. To prevent premature budding, keep mums actively growing with adequate wa- ter and fertilizer. "Mum lighting" of 10 footcandles from 10 pm to 2 am is helpful. Space field-grown mums 18-24 inches apart in rows 30-36 inches apart, with fertilizer side dressed down the rows. Do not neglect irrigation. (For information on 'Christine and the Prophets series, call Yoder Brothers in Barberton, Ohio, at 1-800-321-9573.) PERENNIAL PLANT ASSOCIATION The Perennial Plant Association's "Perennial Plant of the Year" for 1994 is kstilbe ^Sprite,' This peren- nial was selected for its long-sea- son ornamental effect and adapt- ability to most areas of the United States and Canada. (It does well in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8.) 'Sprite' was discovered and in- troduced by Alan Bloom, of Blooms of Blessingham, England. Selected from a group of kstilbe simplicifolia seedlings that were growing near kstilbe chinensis 'Pumila,' it probably is a natural cross between them. Introduced in 1978, 'Sprite' has es- tablished a reputation as a popular and versatile perennial. Its "tiny pink flowers on graceful arched plumes appear in mid-sum- mer; deep rich foliage is finely dis- sected and crinkly edged." It likes fertile, well-drained, but moist, soil; bare-root plants are best planted in early spring; potted plants may be set out any time from early spring until one month before a killing frost. In New Eng- land, it likes full sun to partial shade; overall height is 15-18 inches. Color slides or black-and white photos can be obtained by contact- ing the Perennial Plant Association, 3383 Schirtzinger Road, Hiliard, Ohio 43026. The phone there is (614) 771-8431. NATIONAL GARDEN BUREAU INC. And the National Garden Bureau has proclaimed 1994 as the "Year of the Snapdragon and the Water- melon." This is its fourteenth year of proclaiming this sort of thing and it offers black and white pho- tos and fact .sheets ("Thomas lefferson grew snaps — a May 28, 1767, entry in his garden diary notes that "snapdragons are bloom- ing'.") useful in seed and produce promotions. The National Garden Bureau is a "non-profit educational service of the North American home garden seed industry." They're located out in Downers Grove, Illinois, and can be reached at (708) 963-0770. BPFI Research Report Available Bedding Plants Foundation, Inc., has published a new research re- port, Si^slems for Storage of Eedding- Plant Plugs, by Dr. Royal Heins and Thomas F. Wallace, jr., of Michigan State University. This report is the third in a se- ries of BPFl-sponsored research by Dr. Heins in the area of plug stor- age and details optimum storage conditions for portulaca, lobelia, celosia, verbena, and dahlia. Pre- vious reports have dealt with other crops. The bedding plant grower de- rives several benefits from plug storage. Plugs that are prematurely ready for transplant can be held without use of growth-regulators or water or nutrient stress; plug scheduling can be managed more easily; and greenhouse space that might have been used for storage 12 T^e Plantsman 'm- '^ ELSEWHERE IN THE NEWS can be freed up for production. For a copy of this report or for information about the Bedding Plant Foundation, call BPFI at (517) 694-8537. Scotts Acquires Grace-Sierra (from Nursery Manager, Dec. 1993) The Scotts Company in Marysville, Ohio, agreed to acquire Grace-Si- erra Horticulture Products Company from W. R. Grace and other inves- tors. The acquisition is valued at more than $100 million, according to company officials. Grace-Sierra's businesses and operations will be combined with Scotts' to form the world's largest turf and horticulture products company, with fiscal year 1993 sales approaching $600 million, a spokesperson reported. Based in Milpitas, California, Grace-Sierra, an international mar- keter and manufacturer of fertiliz- ers and related products, was formed in 1989 with the merger of Sierra Chemical Company, Inc., and the Horticulture Products Division of W. R. Grace, Inc. In addition to gaining manufacturing facilities in California, Pennsylvania, Arkansas and South Carolina, the Scotts Company now can manufacture from Grace-Sierra's plant in the Netherlands. ^*' HARRY STDLLER & CO., Inc. 109-113 Essex St., Haverhill, Mass. 01830, (508) 373-6838, (800) 322-0332 We cater to the small and medium size nursery in any quantity desired: 1. New heavy grade domestic burlap sqs. untreated & no-rot-treated 2. Open burlap bags 3. New windbreak burlap 4. Balling bags 5. Wire baskets 6. Flat-folded burlap basket liners 7. Truck covers 8. Sisal twine & poly twine 9. Woven polypropylene sqs. CAU. FOR QUALITY SOD AND SERVICE (ClS^MAf ROUTE 3A LITCHFIELD, NH 1-800-556-6985 » Big Rolls with Roll-out Service » Convenient Farm Pick-up • Prompt Delivery Service MICHAUD Nurseries & Greenhouses, Inc, Route 85 — PO Box 334 — Exeter, NH 03833 (603) 772-3698 Wholesale & Retail Nursery Annuals, Perennials, Nursery Stock, Landscape Supplies WE SUPPORT Fall is for planting February &. March 1994 13 '♦^- -^ Easter Lilies Pre'finished Re^at Geraniums D.S. COLE Growers Your Double Intpatiens Source 240 North Village Road, Loudon, NH 03301 (603) 783-9561 Fax (603) 783-9562 Let Rough Brotheis' expertise tun your 9eenhouse nto a poweihouse— for profits. Call the experts at Rough Brothers for information and techncal assistance on these quality products. Manufacturers of; • WhiteHouse • The IntemationaJ • Harvest House • The "2100" gutter-connected house • Free-standing poly arch houses • Techlite glazing • Ro-Ro benches • Ebb & Ro benches Distributors of • Alcoa Aluminum Rn Heating • Heating and venDlalJng equipment • Maintenance supplies, glass, parts . .and rrore Rough Brothers P.O. Box 16010, Cinciiinati, Ohio 45216 nmn ROUGH BROTHERS I I 1-800/543-7351 • TOP LINE TURF SEEDS • QUALITY GRANULAR GMF FERTILIZER • CUSTOM MIXING - OUR SPECIALITY • DOLOMITIC LIME • DELIVERY THROUGHOUT NEW ENGLAND l« NE 800-624-2952 IM VT 800-244-4628 FAX 802-893-2194 Grow with the Best L.D INC. OLIVER SEED CO., P. O. BOX 156 MILTON, VERMONT 05468 CD OWNERS! Are You Earning f^ Interest Rate /Q Guaranteed For One Year? No Annual Fees! Guaranteed Return of Principal! Multiple Income Features! CaU Now For More Information On Tax-deferred Annuities MICHAEL BARNEA Wageman Ins. Inc. 1-800-439-2451 Golden Rule Insurance Company. Rated 'A+" (Superior) by A.M. Best. This rating indicates financial strength and stability. * This annuity includes a 3% first-year bonus. Rate as of 1-3-94, subject to change. 221A-1093 FormGRI-AN-10 14 Tfie Planlsman '•i- Wu iA- ildflowers on New Hampshire Roadsides Thomas ]. Gilligan, P.E. The New Hampshire Department of Transporta tion has, for a number of years, included wild flower establishment as part of its highway con- struction program. In addition, the Federal Highway Administration mandates that a portion of monies spent on highway landscaping be used specifically for the establishment of wildflowers. Last but not least, the Department of Transportation, in association with the N.H. Federation of Garden Clubs and local agricul- tural vocational schools, coordinates a formal program establishing wildflower fields throughout the state. With the continued establishment of such sites, NHDOT's Roadside Development Section has used the opportunity to 'refine" the methods used in develop- ing a successful stand of wildflowers. What is a "successful" stand of wildflower? Well, originally we envisioned a field of successive color, with every sown species evident year after year and with little or no maintenance involved. We have learned that there is no "pure success" when it comes to wildflower establishment, only degrees of success. No wildflower field has been what we would term a "failure," while no field has been everything we had planned. True to landscaping in general, there are many variables, both within and out of your control. One can faithfully prepare an ideal seedbed, sow a quantity mix at just the right time, get great germina- tion and plant establishment, only to have a summer similar to what we've had this year (one of the driest on record) produce marginal results. The Department of Transportation's wildflower es- tablishment experiment began as an occasional field sown out of convenience and eventually evolved into a more formal program. Consequently, the data col- lected does not reflect some preconceived plan to de- fine the last word in wildflower establishment, it is simply a summary of our experiences to date and an attempt to realize the most economical process for an acceptable product. We have established relatively small-size fields throughout the state, using not only a variety of seed mixes, but variations and combinations of established planting techniques. SITE SELECTION: VISIBILITY Wildflower sites established by the Department of Transportation are located primarily on the Interstate Highway System. Additionally, sites established by the Department in association with local garden clubs and vocational schools are, for the most part, located at rest areas, toll facilities and on local highways. Having relatively limited funds for wildflower establishment, careful consideration is given to the location of each site. Site selection in all cases is based on maximum visibility by the motoring public and field sizes are defined by the speed of the passing motorist. Smaller fields are located where speeds are slower (ramps or facilities). Larger sites are established within highway medians and are situated to be seen from both direc- tions of traffic. Consideration is also given to minimiz- ing the visual distraction to a driver by locating sites at or slightly below the driver's eye-level and at angles that minimize side-viewing. SITE SELECTION: TOPOGRAPHY, LIGHT, MOISTURE, AND SOIL CONDITIONS Topography, light, moisture, and soil conditions are also considered. Sunny, level well-drained sites with relatively good soil are ideal, but seldom available adjacent to a highway. The Department has estab- lished wildflower sites primarily in full-sun locations, but have also experienced some degree of success in less desirable areas. During the spring of 1993, a num- ber of sites were established on 1-93 and 1-89. Among these sites, one in particular did exceptionally well. This site was located, contrary to accepted practice, on a north face slope that received only partial sun. The summer of 1993 was an extremely dry one and the success of this site was attributed to the fact that its relatively sheltered location was not suited to wa- ter loss through heat and evaporation. That summer, similar sites fared better than those located in 'ideal' situations. SITE SELECTION: PLANTING ZONES New Hampshire hardiness zones range from Zone 6 on the coast to Zone 3 in portions of the White Moun- tains. The Department has established wildflower sites in all of these zones. Species for individual mixes are selected relative to hardiness as directed by seed supplier. We are just beginning to realize species tol- erance within New Hampshire zones and hope to have a better understanding of this subject as our data base grows. SEED SELECTION: ANNUALS, PERENNIALS, AND BIENNIALS The Department has used a variety of seed mix for- mulations over the past few years. These have ranged Februarys. March 1994 15 '♦^- -^ AUSTRIAN PINE, 5-8' height Beautiful, Heavy, Connecticut Valley Nursery Grown. Growing 500 Acres of New England's Finest Trees & Shrubs f^^^ ^^Zj^^ f^^ Trees Since 1929 ^» Inillane iTlursenes, mc. 604 MAIN STREET, CROMWELL CONNECTICUT 06416 / PHONE (203) 635-5500 / FAX (203) 635-3685 Wholesalers & Retailers •Poinsettias •Annuals • Perennials •Potted Plants 'Seasonal Crops 'Supplies Visit our 12 Greenhouses & Garcien Center Claremont Hill, Newport, New Hampshire (603)863-1089 OPEN YEAR ROUND 16 The Plantsman -m- i^- from as little as two to as many as twenty species. They have included annual, perennial, and biennial, as well as grass species. Two or three annual species in a mix has given us good results. Annuals afford first season color as well as act as a nurse crop protecting young perennial plants during that time. California Poppy, Bachelor Button (Cornflower), Baby's Breath and Cosmos are four annual species that have per- formed particularly well throughout the state. Of the many perennial species used to date, some tend to be more site specific than others. For example, we have found that Wild Lupine does extremely well north of Plymouth, but only marginally so to the south. Warmer temperatures and aphids seem to be the principal factor in their lack of success. Addition- ally, in well-drained high-moisture locations such as highway shoulders or slope areas with high surface water movement. Lupine has exhibited intense growth. Dame's Rocket, Ox-eye Daisy, Lanceleaf and Plains Coreopsis, Black-eyed Susan, Purple Coneflower and Farewell-to-Spring have also done consistently well throughout all zones and growing conditions. In select- ing any seed, we have always made it a point to buy from a reputable source that specializes in wildflower seed and can supply detailed information on indi- vidual species as well as specially formulated mix- tures. SITE PREPARATION: HERBICIDE APPLICATION Approximately 50% of the wildflower sites we have es- tablished were subject to herbicide application. In ev- ery instance, herbicide has effectively reduced the competition that grass and other established species have on wildflower growth. Locations where herbicide had been applied as part of site preparation exhib- ited a denser and more uniform stand of wildflower growth than those that were not. SITE PREPARATION: ROTOTILLING, DESODDING, DETHATCHING We have concentrated much of our effort on determin- ing the effects of site preparation on wildflower suc- cess. A variety and combination of site preparation techniques have been used during the past several years. They have ranged from simply dethatching and raking out a site in preparation for seeding to me- chanical desodding and rototilling of the exposed bare earth. The intent of site preparation is to afford the best opportunity for desirable seeds to germinate and establish themselves with a minimum of weed competition. Shallow rototilling of all sites is recommended. This serves to create a loose, friable seed bed. However, tilling should be kept to a depth of only about 2 inches. Deeper tilling may promote weed growth by bringing that seed to the surface. in order to gauge the significance of desodding a wildflower site, a number of small adjacent test plots were established. All were treated with herbicide; half were then desodded and rototilled while the treated sod on the remainder was simply rototilled into the existing soil. All were then identically prepared, planted, and maintained. Wildflower germination and growth were slightly better on the desodded sites. However, we feel that this is attributed to greater seed-to-soil contact on these plots. If the tilled sod were afforded better seed-to-soil contact through roll- ing or tracking, we feel equal production would result. As a possible alternative to sod removal and roto- tilling, several sites were treated with herbicide and then mechanically dethatched. The intent was to de- termine a procedure that would apply to steeper slopes where erosion as a result of tilling may be a problem. With a seed mix consisting of approximately 9 species, first-year results indicated a general failure with only sparse production. Second and third-year re- sults showed an eventual fair-to-good establishment of only one species, Lance-Leaved Coreopsis, in addition to reestablishment of the original grasses. As a result, this method of site preparation was determined to be unacceptable. SITE AMENDMENTS: COMPOST/SLUDG'E, LIMESTONE, FERTILIZER In many instances, we have supplemented existing soils with commercially manufactured compost mate- rial. While it is possible to plant wildflowers in poor soil, the addition of approximately 2" of compost, lightly tilled into the existing soil not only serves to increase nutrients and moisture retention, but is a growing medium relatively free of competing weed seed. The ingredients and quantity of commercially produced composts vary greatly. Selecting a compost that assures a weed seed-free formulation either by determining its individual components or composting process is essential. Generally, fertilizer is not recommended in wild- flower establishment unless the existing soil nutrient quality is poor. Fertilizer may encourage the growth of unwanted weeds. In instances where we have estab- lished wildflower in poor soil and have not amended it with compost, fertilization has been beneficial in plant production. Generally, a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 is considered ideal for wildflower establishment. The addition of limestone to meet this range is rec- ommended. SEED APPLICATION: HAND BROADCASTING, HYDROSEEDING AND OTHER MECHANICAL METHODS. Approximately 50% of our wildflower fields established to date have been hand-seeded, using sand as a bulking agent and spread indicator. Because of the va- riety of seed sizes, hand-broadcasting provides the greatest uniformity in seed coverage. Hydroseeding, although less precise, has been done on the remain- der of our fields These are the only two methods of application the Department has employed to date. Other states have successfully used other methods of seed delivery which are currently under consideration. POST APPLICATION: ROTOTILLING/TRACKING, MULCHING, AND WATERING Seed-to-soil contact is essential in assuring maximum germination of wildflower seed and initial vigor of new seedlings. Rolling of newly applied seed has realized the greatest degree of success and should be a key step in the wildflower establishment process whenever February &v March 1994 17 '»?- -J». possible. The addition of straw mulch acts to retain moisture and protect young seedlings from summer heat. Although wildflowers are considered to be drought tolerant, all plants need a certain degree of moisture to germinate and continue growth. We consider peri- odic watering to be the single most important compo- nent in wildflower establishment. Assuring that the site is evenly moist during the first 4-to-6 weeks after planting is critical. Additionally, during the first grow- ing season, we periodically monitor the site's devel- opment and, if possible, deliver additional waterings. Unfortunately in some instances, economics dictate post- application treatment and some fields are left to Mother Nature for continued watering. POST-APPLICATION: OVERSEEDING, SELECTIVE HERBICIDE AND CONTINUED MAINTENANCE The Department has recently begun overseeding some of its wildflower sites with both annual and perennial species. The results of these efforts have yet to be determined. Selective herbicides have been included in our establishment process for a number of years as an immediate solution to the elimination of weed competition during the first year of wildflower estab- lishment. To date, its use has not been necessary; therefore its effectiveness has not been gauged. Se- lective herbicides for use in the continued mainte- nance of wildflower sites is scheduled for this coming year and its effectiveness will be studied. To date, continued maintenance has been limited to scheduled fall mowing and overseeding. The wild- flower program, in association with local garden clubs and vocational schools, will not only establish new fields this summer, but also concentrate much of its effort on the maintenance of previously established sites throughout the state. Maintenance in some in- stances will involve the retilling and seeding of mar- ginal quality sites, while others will simply be overseeded. SUMMARY Our wildflower database continues to grow as we es- tablish new wildflower sites and maintain others throughout the state. When viewing a naturally occur- ring stand of wildflowers, consider the sheer volume of seed produced annually there. Realize also that the rate of germination is extremely small. When we sow wildflower seed, our germination rate has to be far greater, as our seed volumes are much smaller. Consider what we have observed and noted above, but in all instances temper that information with the fact that Mother Nature always has the last word in the final product. But, if public response is any indi- cator of success. New Hampshire's Wildflower Estab- lishment Program has been just that. As a result, there seems to be a renewed awareness of wildflower estab- lishment statewide, a greater involvement in the pro- cess and, in New Hampshire especially... yet another reason to anticipate spring! Thomas \. GllUgan is a Roadside Development Engineer in the NH Bureau of Highway Design, Roadside Development Section. This section of the NH Department of Transportation is respon- BOARD HIGHLIGHTS December 7, 1993, Pleasant View Bob Demers, Henry Huntington, and Dick Zoerb were present. Previous minutes, reports: In the financial re- port, it was wondered if the $5000 00 the Board set aside as the beginnings of a scholarship/research endowment fund was a line item included in the total balance Chris Robarge will be asked about the matter. Winter Meeting Peter van Berkum reported earlier that everything was in place. Summer Meeting: The Summer Meeting will be held at Ledgewood Farms and Spider Web Gar- dens on either August 10 or 17. Bob Demers will check on dates of other August meetings and final- ize our date by the end of the month. Farm & Forest: There will be handouts at our booth this year. Roger Warren is in charge of pro- ducing these and he should call Mary Ellen Pitman to find out the number of visitors expected and then print the appropriate number of handouts Pleasant View can furnish flowering material. New England Grows: No extra Plantsmen will be printed, some issues will be displayed; mem- bership forms will be given out Miscellaneous: After Christmas Bob will orga- nize next year's Twilight Meetings. Demers Garden Center and D.S. Cole Growers are two possibilities in the spring. New Business: Only two people applied for this year's NHPGA scholarships Because of this disappointing response, it was decided to post- pone awarding them until summer. This will allow more publicity; students can apply during the spring semester Henry suggested that we might offer them through the UNH Financial Aid office; it was suggested that children studying horticulture whose parents are NHPGA members should be al- lowed to apply as well Bob Demers wondered if a questionnaire looking for information useful in creating a New Hampshire Buyers' Guide could be sent to mem- bers with their membership renewal forms. (Re- newal forms have been sent, so this would have to be a separate mailing.) Henry Huntington said that Alan Eaton, Ento- mology, had asked him to be an advisor and NHPGA representative for next year's greenhouse 1PM program. He accepted >•■ sible for the development of all landscaping and landscape-related projects on the state highway system. \n addition to wildflower establishment, its work includes the design and construction of highway, wetland, and facility landscaping throughout the state. This section designs: project construction is contracted out to pri- vate companies. Those businesses interested in finding out about requirements and procedures for bidding on some of these projects should call Tom at (603) 271-161 1. 18 The Plantsman SeeV ,VjVCVg, ^eXXe^ &^el^ For twelve years. Pleasant View Gardens has built a reputation for quality, service and reliability. Our aops are healthy and hearty because they're grown in an optimum environment, ana our newly expanded green house area of 4 aaes enables us to provide greater availability and more vaneties. Contact us today about: ■ foliage aops ■ 4" annuals and paks ■ hanging baskets ■ plugs ■ cuttings ■ herbs lleascint^eiii Qcmlens New England s fastest growing wholesaler' holiday aops foliage for interior design flowering plants large foliage plants and trees all your planting needs RFD 3, Box 3701, Pirtsfield, NfH 03263 Tel. (603)435-8361 Fax (603) 435-6849 © Pleasant View Gardens 1992 09 VISA ^^^e\V^^g Yor. To Q ^o ^ B.E. SUPPLY GREENHOUSE SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENT • pre-filled flats &. pots • restricted pesticides • fertilizers • distriburos for Plasti Form & Plasti Vac • distributors for Hyde Park & Sunshine Soils • Kord products • Nu-Form Products • Star Steel Greenhouses 603-835^6930 HEMLOCK ROAD, LANGDON Mailing Address: P.O. Box O, Charlestown, NH February &. March 1994 19 -J*- MEMBER PROFILE urseys GOOD DESIGN A4AKES GREAT A/IARKETING For nearly twenty summers, be- ginning In the 1950s, Dave Bursey's parents operated a farm stand alongside Route 101 in Wilton. Dave's father grew veg- etables; Dave's mother sold what her husband had grown, along with some produce from other farms. Throughout most of the seven- ties, the structure — basically a 20x40 shell — remained unused. Then, in 1978, Dave and his wife Julie bought it. They rented it out for two years, then went into busi- ness for themselves. They began in the earlier for- mat— vegetables, bedding plants in spring; geraniums; mums until the first of November, lulie ran the stand; Dave, assistant manager of a Milford hardware stort. grew croDS during evenings and weekends. The customers were local or people driving through — "a lot of one-timers." But "it wasn't paying us to grow vegetables," so field-grown cut flowers — asters, snaps, glads, dahl- ias— became their crop. This was the first shift toward the luxury trade. Black plastic controlled weeds and held soil heat; the sedi- ment of the old bed of Souhegan River produced good crops. Then, in 1985, "the whole thing was bulldozed," a concrete founda- tion was poured "before Thanksgiv- ing, before the ground froze," and the frame put up in lanuary. Dave quit his job at the hardware store and finished the 20x40 insulated, enclosed structure (with cupola) in time to open that spring. The business had become year-round. (The colors were chosen then — grey cedar shakes for the walls — and magenta lettering for the logo ("There was lots of green plants and gray shingles," Dave says, "and we needed something bright. The customers really commented on it — it gave us an identity.") Along with fresh produce. The Burseys began stocking other food products — juices, bread, natural chips: "We didn't plan much — we just kept expanding." But the three specialty areas — plants, pro- duce, and natural foods, were in place. Customers kept asking for more, so Dave decided to build an addi- tion that would give the room he needed. He knew he wanted "a more open space that was light and bright," but he liked the idea of maintaining nooks and special areas. He made a lot of sketches, but had an architect draw up the final plans. ("It needed to look professional.") In 1990, "We expanded to the max — Wilton requires that you de- velop no more than 75% of your lot — we developed 74%." (This in- cludes parking for 22 cars.) The 30x60 addition is post-and- beam locally cut natural pine — the cross beams are 18-feet high, the 20 The Plantsman -»?- MEMBER PROFILE ^ peak, 23. Walls are white; gables are glass (there's no windows on the south side — "we need it cool in here — we can't use the southern light.") Well-insulated (Vernnont Winter Panel on the roof, six inches of insulation blown into the walls), the building (minus the green- house) uses only 100 gallons of oil each season. The configuration of the land is worth noting. Route 101 follows a line of hills descending to the river. The road itself is on fill and Dave's parents needed to add fill in order to build the first stand at road level. Dave built the new structure on that site; but for the addition behind it, the ground level had to be raised 12 feet. Even with this amount of fill, the entrance from the rear parking lot is nine feet below store level. However, the slope is used well. The addition is slightly below the 1985 structure; a ramp connects the two; a 24x24 greenhouse (off the east gable end) is four feet below the floor of the new structure (it's connected by stairs); the room into which the rear door opens (where containers are sold now) may later become a florist shop. (The rest of the basement is storage — a con- veyor carries stock down from a loading dock or up to store level — and a work area where Dave does things like put together special or- der fruit baskets.) Dave and Julie's office — a 12x30 mezzanine at the west end of the new structure — adds to this sense of many levels. An open railing around the edge is used for dis- plays; a four-foot high wall four feet back gives some privacy, but allows a view of the shopping be- low. The broad shopping areas are divided into smaller ones — some are very specific: the 'Nut Room,' for example, is a 10x8 enclosed space kept at 53 F; it's used for displaying fresh nuts, dried fruits, trail mix.... Other areas are created by bins and displays used as dividers. There's an area specifically for breads, one for produce, another for coffee and teas. But organic is mixed with regular; and both are clearly marked. The greenhouse is a holding area for plant material — which tends toward the unusual, in De- cember, there were poinsettias, but even these were unexpectedly var- ied, ranging from stock plants to miniatures; In winter, Dave stocks a variety of cactus. (He repots into finished containers — decorator pots — they sell better than if kept in the container they grew in.) One side of the connecting ramp is a "bump greenhouse" where cut flowers — eucalyptus, roses, cym- bidiums — are displayed. (As an example of the contrasts at Bursey's, on the other side is a counter where various coffees and fresh pastries are sold.) The various levels and areas add interest and variety and makes the structure seem much larger than it is. It's comfortable, cozy — people wander from section to section, lin- ger— and buy. DECORATIVE elements are strong and architectural, in the ad- dition, three fans (brass shafts, wooden paddles) hang from the peak; the heat duct running along the ceiling is painted magenta; this reenforces the color of the logo, brightens the interior, and breaks up what could be a monotonous expanse of unpainted wood. In the 1985 structure, the peak of the roof is 15 feet high. But the ceiling is only 7 1/2 feet high and the space above it is used for stor- age. But the ceiling in the center rises to the peak in the shape of a concave pyramid. Its surface is of 1x4 slats spaced an inch apart. Again — a strong, textured shape. Bouquets of dried flowers are hung from the slats and add new tex- ture. The space is dramatic, wel- coming, and works as an unusual display area. Display areas outside the struc- tures add to the feeling of size and variety. Both north and south ends have porches. In December the 10x60 back (south) porch was empty, but the front porches on ei- ther side of the 6x13 entryway were filled with wreaths (the Burseys buy them in and decorate them themselves) and greens; in sum- mer, both are filled with hanging plants. An area on the east side of the store used to display perenni- als in warm weather was filled with Christmas trees — both plantation and pasture. In the area used to display herbs, a granite well cover is used as a focal point; a 2 1/2 foot-high stone wall built to hide the foun- dation of the 1985 structure was built away from the foundation, creating a 4x30 display shelf. (The herb area is another of the small, product-specific areas that seem to work so successfully here. It's an alcove formed by the south wall of the old structure and the green- house and north wall of the new and the bubble house of the ramp. Stone textures predominate — the February &v March 1994 21 '^■ -I*. well cover, the stone wall, peastone on the ground. The land slopes slightly — customers can en- ter the greenhouse at ground level — so the area is also framed by both the plants in the green- house and the cut flowers in the bubble. The variety of natural tex- tures— none of it obtrusive — cre- ates an interesting, intimate space.) THE PRODUCE itself is tex- ture— and the entire interior is filled with it. Natural food, plants, and pro- duce are still the three main items and Bursey's is divided equally among the three. "The business has grown 25 to 33% every year since we started," Dave says. "One reason is that everyone else does one segment and we do all three." And within each area, Bursey's stocks complete lines. For ex- ample, tomatoes offered in mid- December included Yellow, Plum, Cherry, "Belgium," "home-grown Florida," and organic. Tomitillos, a small green tomato in a papery husk and with a peppery flavor, were also offered. Freshness is important. Dave ad- mits there is waste ("the pigs here are well fed"), but produce is turned over every three days. Dave stresses quality. For ex- ample, Bursey's sells 18-per-box ar- tichokes. Most supermarkets sell 32-per-box types. Given that the boxes are the same size, artichokes here are twice the size of what's usually available. People will travel for quality. Julie attends three trade shows each year (in San Francisco, Balti- more, and Washington, DC) to keep up with new products and trends. And Bursey's consistently intro- duces these products. Introducing new types of produce can be ex- pensive— but worth it; "1 started displaying mushrooms for the first time this summer," Dave says. "At first I threw a lot away, but after awhile, people started buying. Now I stock twelve types." Apart from handout fliers (printed on recycled paper using soy-based inks) at the checkout counter, there's little advertising. "Ads in the local papers didn't do much," so Dave eliminated them. "Word of mouth is the best — one satisfied customer will tell three other people." Customers now come from a 50-mile radius — from Keene and Concord and Amherst. Bursey's is the biggest maple syrup retailer in the state, selling over 7500 gallons each year. Dave buys bread (some of it organic) from five local bakers — he's a ma- jor outlet for area bakeries. He also sells local apples and cider. During the growing season, much of his organic produce is also na- tive (Dave buys from The Nesenkeag Coop in Litchfield), but sometimes it's difficult to get the quantities he needs on a regular basis — and the season here is short. So he travels to Boston — to the New England Produce Center, the Boston Flower Exchange, the Boston Market Terminal — twice each week and more often if needed. Most of the annual bedding plants and hangers are supplied by Lavoie's in HoUis; there's an in- creasing perennial business — over 950 selections (Dave buys from a Connecticut grower) offered this year, but Dave still grows his own mums— -2500 ten-inch, 3500 eight— in Fafard mix in fiber pots — on black plastic on the land below the parking lot. Customers can see them growing over the summer and begin to buy before the buds have opened. Next step? Dave recently bought an adjoining acre — his mums will go there and an expanded peren- nial selection will go where his mums are now. And after that? "1 need a store six times as big." Given the growth, it will probably happen. (B.P.) Bursey's Farm Markets, Route 101 in "Wilton, New Hampshire 03086, is open every day expect Christmas and New Years from 9 AM to 7 PM. The phone there is (603) 654-6572. Knowr Your Enemy! It pays to know your enemies! Some famous Chinese leader said these words, but I never thought they'd be useful for pest control. We have just finished the poinsettia crop and for the most part, white fly was under control. The way of thinking for a lot of the grower com- munity is: "If I spray often enough and use everything but the kitchen sink, I should make it to December." Unfortunately, the thrips and aphids have yet to arrive. But white fly seems to be the biggest problem and I'm inundated with calls on its control and complaints of resistance. In most cases, it's the coverage that's causing the problem, not the choice of insecti- cide. Thrips, aphids, white flies: they all have something in common: all suck fluids from the host plant rather than chew its leaves. Because these insects use proboscis (like mosquitos), rather than mandibles (like ants and beetles), their control is much more difficult. Those mouth parts, proboscis, change everything. These insects won't feed on the surface of the leaf where the spray exists; instead, they puncture the leaf and feed on the inside, barely disrupting the surface. Local systemics like Avid^^ and Margosan'™ will help a little, but just a little. And because of these eating habits and canopy prob- lems, bombs and aerosols aren't the best choice of control either. You need to cover the undersides of the leaves. If you're not get- ting good control, check your spraying techniques. Make sure your cov- erage is 100%. Do this before you change your pesticide program. Remember: know your enemy; choose the right material; and cover the surface completely. ^ \im Zablock'i \s Territory Manager. Scotts/Crace Sierra. Horlheasl. He can be reached at (603| 224-5583. 22 The Plantsman ■^- '^ Laughton's Garden Center Inc. Cal Laughton, Florist UUGHIDNs NURSERY STOCK • ANNUALS PERENNIALS FERTILIZERS • INSECTICIDES Distributors of Nursery Overwintering Blankets WHOLESALE AND RETAIL NURSERY Tel. 1-800^33-0159 155-165 Princeton Blvd. No. Chelmsford, MA 01863 CHARLES LAUGHTON. PRESIDENT DAVE POLGREEN. NURSERY SALES WHOLESALE NURSERY TREES • EVERGREENS • SHRUBS 150 acres of quality plants Write for catalog Member: MNA. NENA Millers Falls Road, Turners Falls. MA 01376 Telephone 4 13- 863-2510 Jewarts NURSERY, Inc. PRUNERS m LADDERS ■ SPRAYERS • FORKLIFTS ■ PUMPS ROUTE 116, P.O. BOX 540 CONWAY, MA 01341 413-369-4335 For Friendly, Courteous, Efficent, Technical Service CALL US AT 1-800-634-5557 FOR INFORMATION AND CATALOGS HOSE ■ TANKS ■ REELS > MOWERS ■ SAFETY EQUIPMENT SOD FARMS & WHOLESALE NURSERY. INC. GROWERS AND DISTRIBUTORS • NURSERY STOCK • GARDEN .SUPPLIES • CHRISTMAS TREES •SOD CANTERBURY. NEW HAMPSHIRE 03224 EXIT 18.1-93. 1/2 MILE TELEPHONE 1-800-287-4716 February 8. March 1994 23 -»?- -i^ ?• fffill erry nurseries inc. A growing tradition since 1 832 WHOLESALE ONLY Growers of Quality Hardy Plants Trees • Shrubs • Evergreens B'.^ 4> LIBERTY INTERNATIONAL 1400 South Willow Street Manchester, NH 03103 Parts: 669-8524 NH WATS: 1-800-562-3814 INTERNATIONAL MITSUBISHI FUSO THE 1994 WINTER MEETING ASSOCIATION OFFICERS President BOB DEMERS, JR. Demers Nursery & Garden Center 656 South Mammoth Road Manchester, NH 03103 625-8298 Secretatry I treasurer CHRISTOPHER ROBARGE UNH/TSAS Horticultural Facilities Manager Durham, NH 03824 862-1074 Directors ANDREA CAPRON Box 332 Center Ossipee, NH 03814 539-6030 HENRY HUNTINGTON Pleasant View Gardens RFD#3, PO Box 3701 Pittsfield, NH 03263 435-8361 BEN SHAMBAUGH Wayside Farm North Sandwich, NH 03259 284-6886 PETER VAN BERKUM 4 James Road Deerfield, NH 03037 463-7663 ROGER WARREN Box 318 Merlden, NH 03770 469-3226 (H); 448-61 10 (W) RICHARD ZOERB Gloeckner & Company, Inc. 72 Hawkstead Hollow Nashua, NH 03063 886-8665 * * 3^ * * * T JLhe .he joint New Hampshire Plant Growers' Associa- tion/New Hampshire Landscape Association Winter Meeting held on January 13 at the Granite Street Bar & Grill in Manchester was attended by over 125 people from both organizations. What these people saw were four talks given by four people on four topics (Paul lames — annuals and their uses; |ohn Bryant — aspects of running a successful business; Elsa Bakalar — perennials and garden design; Lynn Cohen — marketing — particularly displays and signage). All were excellent — each covered his or her topic thoroughly and gave aesthetic pleasure and use- ful information. But you left this day with an impres- sion of these four strong and contrasting personali- ties— each successful in his or her own way — and think- ing that the range of possibility and innovation within the Green Industry is still enormous. We thank the speakers for all the time and en- ergy spent in preparing and giving their presentations. Major credit (and thanks) for the success of this day must go to Peter van Berkum (NHPGA) and Chuck Simpson (NHLA) who coordinated the whole event and to Guy Hodgdon (NHLA) and Chris Robarge (NHPGA) who organized the registration. it was a very successful meeting. NH PLANT GROWERS ASSOCIATION THE PLANTSMAN EDITOR UNH RESEARCH GREENHOUSES DURHAM, NH 03824 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 43