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1 Inspiration, Innovation, Creativity Abound at TPIE! Continued page 3 FNGLA’S MONTHLY PUBLICATION: DIGITAL MONTHLY ISSUE LOCATED AT HTTP://GREENLINE.FNGLA.ORG February 2015 | Volume 36, Issue 2 With 6,162 participants from 42 states and 39 nations soaking up the TPIE experience, attendance surpassed last year’s TPIE and, in fact, is a five-year high! Retail buyers were up 13% and interiorscape buyers were up 14%. The TPIE Road Show was a sell-out. The FNGLA Certification Showcase was hugely popular. And, the Opening Session featuring international trends analyst Christine Boland was standing-room only. “TPIE is the most exciting and stimulating show in the industry,” said Theresa Riley of Rockledge Gardens and chairman of the 2015 show. “Not only do you see the most beautiful plants, colors and textures at TPIE, but it is where I meet extremely creative and inspiring people. TPIE is the show that brings incredible energy and opportunity to anyone wishing to take advantage of it.” With fifty new exhibiting companies and a small, yet noticeable, increase in the number of booths as well as the overall number of companies exhibiting, TPIE 2015 reflected the gradual and healthy improvement of today’s economy. Industry trade show watcher and TPIE Committee member Chris Beytes said, “The mood in Fort Lauderdale was exceptionally good. I attribute that to 2014 being a strong one for the industry and there are no reasons to believe 2015 can’t be just as strong — weather permitting, of course.” The week started with TPIE’s Road Show, which offered practical, yet inspiring, presentations by experienced experts from the interiorscape and retail business worlds. TPIE’s Road Show also staged visits to nurseries, retail stores and an expansive downtown green wall in the art district to capture innovative practices which can be used to create exciting future experiences for customers. TPIE is well known as the place to learn the latest industry trends. This was especially true this year as a standing room-only audience flocked to hear Dutch trend analyst Christine Boland share the most notable worldwide social trend markers and how they transfer to design and applications related to our industry products and services. A few key words and phrases used by Christine included: simplicity; filter and focus; togetherness; re-use; renew;

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Newsletter for FNGLA members and Florida's nursery and landscape industry business professionals.

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Page 1: FNGLA's February 2015 Greenline

1

Inspiration, Innovation, Creativity Abound at TPIE!

Continued page 3

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

February 2015 | Volume 36, Issue 2

With 6,162 participants from 42 states and 39 nations soaking up the TPIE experience, attendance surpassed last year’s TPIE and, in fact, is a five-year high! Retail buyers were up 13% and interiorscape buyers were up 14%. The TPIE Road Show was a sell-out. The FNGLA Certification Showcase was hugely popular. And, the Opening Session featuring international trends analyst Christine Boland was standing-room only.

“TPIE is the most exciting and stimulating show in the industry,” said Theresa Riley of Rockledge Gardens and chairman of the 2015 show. “Not only do you see the most beautiful plants, colors and textures at TPIE, but it is where I meet extremely creative and inspiring people. TPIE is the show that brings incredible energy and opportunity to anyone wishing to take advantage of it.”

With fifty new exhibiting companies and a small, yet noticeable, increase in the number of booths as well as the overall number of companies exhibiting, TPIE 2015 reflected the gradual and healthy improvement of today’s economy. Industry trade show watcher and TPIE Committee member Chris Beytes said, “The mood in Fort Lauderdale was exceptionally good. I attribute that to 2014 being a strong one for the industry and there are no reasons to believe 2015 can’t be just as strong — weather permitting, of course.”

The week started with TPIE’s Road Show, which offered practical, yet inspiring, presentations by experienced experts from the interiorscape and retail business worlds. TPIE’s Road Show also staged visits to nurseries, retail stores and an expansive downtown green wall in the art district to capture innovative practices which can be used to create exciting future experiences for customers.

TPIE is well known as the place to learn the latest industry trends. This was especially true this year as a standing room-only audience flocked to hear Dutch trend analyst Christine Boland share the most notable worldwide social trend markers and how they transfer to design and applications related to our industry products and services. A few key words and phrases used by Christine included: simplicity; filter and focus; togetherness; re-use; renew;

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Sandy SteinFNGLA 2014-2015 PresidentPRESIDENT’S LETTER

Last month at the Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition (TPIE) your association put on a Career Day for many

local middle and high school kids who are part of agriculture programs in their various schools. I was so privileged to emcee the presentation, where both students and teachers were recognized who had completed Certified Horticultural Professional trainings within their schools, and where Erik Tietig from Pine Island Nursery, Jonathan Borghi from Farm Credit of Florida and I spoke to the kids about what life is like in our particular professions and how we each of us found our way into of our respective companies.

Erik is a second generation nurseryman. His mom, Colleen Boggs, is an icon of our industry and so Erik, a young icon in his own right, was a valuable example to the kids of a legacy following the great example set by the generation before him, who is currently running their business, but also as a person who has given many years of service to our industry, other things ag-related, and more. Jonathan was an all-together different speaker for the kids. Jonathan is on the farm lending side of our industry, and came to Farm Credit through happenstance out of the larger banking world. For any who know Jonathan, his energy and enthusiasm are contagious, he loves his life as a lender to the farming industry, feels like he is making a difference to all who consume food and nature’s beauty, and stood before the next generation sharing what a life in agriculture can be like from the economic side. I wore my hats as both a nurseryman and a life-coach. I wanted the kids to think about the awesome lives waiting for them in the world of work if they fully invest themselves, hold back nothing, and go for it. I have put together

a life for myself through years of pursuing growth in both my professions. I am also lucky enough to have my wife as a business partner, someone I can bounce the daily trials of the nursery business with, who will provide feedback and help come up with ideas and solutions to the many challenges us nurserymen know all so well. This too, I wanted the kids to hear about.

The room was filled with kids, maybe more than 200. I saw the disinterested, the very interested, and the majority who fell somewhere in the middle. I believe for most of them getting out of school for the day and being able to walk the TPIE show floor was the real motivator. Yet there were those I spoke to on the show floor later who loved the idea of coming into our industry. Maybe Amy DiBella (FNGLA’s Membership Coordinator), Merry Mott (FNGLA’s Director of Certifications and Career Development), Erik, Jonathan, or I made some small impact on a few of them. Maybe we get future nursery entrepreneurs from the kid’s exposure to our industry through walking TPIE and interacting with those who invest our time and energy in them, our industry’s future. FNGLA continues to invest in the next generation through the certification programs which are offered in many middle and high schools around the state. We certainly cannot expect to see a future for our industry if we don’t invest in the next generation of nurserymen and women today. There is nothing more gratifying than being of service to kids. It may have been my favorite event in my time of FNGLA service.

Sandy SteinThe Jungle Nursery (Miami)[email protected]

A Peek Into the Next Generation of Ag at FNGLA’s Career Days at TPIE

“The ultimate test of man’s conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard.” – Gaylord Nelson

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pop-up and surprise; and, art everywhere.

Togetherness was evident at the TPIE Happy Hour, sponsored by Suntory, as hundreds of TPIE participants flowed from the exhibit hall to the outdoor fountain courtyard to relax in Fort Lauderdale’s mild January temperatures and sunshine. Sounds of the Suntory steel drum played while colleagues shared stories of the day and discussed “what if ” business conversations over drinks. “I love the TPIE Happy Hour,” said one exhibitor. “This is where I can see the people who didn’t yet make it by my booth!”

Inspiration and Innovation were found in the companies creating award-winning exhibits at TPIE, as well as offering new, cool plants and products. The TPIE 2015 Best of Show booth award went to United Nurseries for a red-carpet, movie star experience for all who entered its exhibit, complete with movie posters playing off real movie titles and various plants offered by United Nurseries. TPIE’s First-place Island Exhibit Award went to a very colorful and strongly branded exhibit by Silver Vase. The Most Unusual Plant Specimen award was given to DeRoose Plants for Vriesia ‘Naomi.’ See images of the booth and People’s Choice Award winners at http://www.fngla.org/TPIE/boothawards.aspx.

Buyers at TPIE 2015 voted on their favorite new plants and products. The winners were: Favorite Flowering Plant - Orchid ‘Black Velvet’ by Silver Vase; Favorite Foliage Plant - Philodendron ‘Lickity-Split’™ PPAF by Oglesby Plants International; and, Favorite New Product - Big Bag Bed Mini by High Caliper Growing.

TPIE Cool Products awards are selected by independent garden center members of The Garden Center Group. A special presentation of these awards takes place during the show, with each exhibitor given an opportunity to offer a show-and-tell moment about their winning product. There were a total of 15 awards at TPIE 2015 covering a mix of plants, plant packaging and related products.

The TPIE Create Theater was a busy place with workshops throughout the show offered by members of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD). Most popular was a designer duel in which three designers competed to create a grand design using foliage plants, flowering foliage, bamboo stakes and ribbon wire. Daily workshop topics included plant design trends; plants with a repurpose; and, plants as art.

Also staged at the Create Theater was The TPIE Interiorscape Award Winners Showcase. It featured the top award winners from the PLANET, PIA and I-Plants and Urban Horticulture magazine awards programs. Eight projects from across North America were recognized, including special event displays, green walls and colorful container plantings.

FNGLA’s Certifications Showcase was new at TPIE this year. Hundreds of TPIE attendees had the opportunity to practice some of the FNGLA Landscape Certificate exam stations, including plant identification and job evaluation. Certification mentors and judges were on hand answering questions and encouraging more industry professionals to become FNGLA-certified professionals.

“With TPIE’s January placement, this is the show setting the mood and expectations for the foliage industry,” said FNGLA’s chief operations officer, Linda Adams. “We’re happy to report a vibrant TPIE with an exceptionally strong cross-section of quality buyers come to TPIE for the exciting new plants, products and ideas that continue to be generated by the industry. There is renewed interest in plants as an important part of our lives whether for décor, wellness or biodiversity or all of these reasons.” TPIE 2016 is will take place January 20-22 in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Continued from page 1

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

Page 4: FNGLA's February 2015 Greenline

Rest Stations

Tradeshow Bags General Sponsor

Exhibitors’ Showcase

Special Thanks to our TPIE Sponsors

TPIE Happy Hour & Lanyard Sponsor

Opening Session Sponsors

Innovations Lounge

Create Theater presented by AIFD

Thursday Sessions Sponsor

Page 5: FNGLA's February 2015 Greenline

Mark Your Calendar for TPIE 2016: January 20 - 22!View TPIE’s Complete Photo Gallery: https://picasaweb.google.com/112578394231502451597/TPIE2015January2123#

Looking for an exhibitor you connected with at TPIE? Use TPIE’s mobile/web app long after the show: m.tpie.org. FNGLA’s show apps are powered by PlantAnt.

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS

It’s Your Turn to Talk about Others! Now Accepting Nominations for FNGLA’s Industry AwardsNow’s the time to talk about others! Let FNGLA’s Industry Awards Committee know all the good work your industry colleagues have been doing on behalf of FNGLA and the industry.

Here’s a look at the 2014 FNGLA Industry Award Winners:Hall of Fame Inductees: the late Jake Koornneef and the late Larry WalkerWendell E. Butler Award: Chet PeckettFNGLA/Farm Credit Young Nursery Professional: Ty StrodeOutstanding Chapter President: Shaun BrownOutstanding Chapter Treasurer: Lou HarrelsonOutstanding Volunteer: Mike TevelonisOutstanding Educator: Erin Harlow

Who should be honored with the FNGLA Industry Awards in 2015? You can be a part of the process by submitting your nominations to FNGLA by March 6. Online submission forms are available under each award category at: http://fngla.org/recognition/industry-awards/.

For more information or assistance related to FNGLA Industry Awards, contact Linda Adams at [email protected] or call the FNGLA office at 800-375-3642.

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Page 7: FNGLA's February 2015 Greenline

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

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FNGLA’s Professional Certifications Showcased at TPIE ShowFNGLA’s certifications were highlighted at the Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition January 21-23, 2015 in Ft. Lauderdale in conjunction with the FNGLA membership booth.

Developed by Certification Committee Chair Gary Weitermann of SeaWorld, this special Certification Showcase engaged attendees to learn how to add education and professionalism to their companies. Committee members hosted Plant Identification, Job Evaluation and Irrigation stations for mock exams that provided a look into FNGLA’s industry certification exams. Look for another Certification Showcase at The Landscape Show September 24-26, 2015.

Special thanks to the following suppliers:

Acosta FarmsAtlas Peat & Soil

Brad’s Bedding PlantsBVA Inc.

Classic CaladiumsExcelsa Gardens

Harold B. MartinHorticultural Printers

MedallionOglesby Plants International

Pine Island NurseryPlantSearch.comRailroad Nursery

SeaWorld HorticultureSunfire Nursery

Attendees tested their plant identification skills

FNGLA’s Certification Committee members hosted selected exam stations to introduce industry certifications to TPIE attendees.

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

Nearly 300 high school horticulture students from around Florida attended TPIE’s Horticulture Career Fair Friday, January 23, 2015. Farm Credit’s Jonathan Borghi asks questions to the group (L) and FNGLA President Sandy Stein explains the expansive

career possibilities in Florida’s nursery and landscape industry (R) before the students tour the trade show floor.

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FNGLA HAPPENINGSFNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days Takes Place May 13 & 14Plan to attend the next FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days: May 13 & 14 in Orlando! Florida’s spring season is an ideal time to evaluate plants for garden performance and test their resilience. Breeders will bring their newest varieties to Central Florida to test their durability against the heat and humidity. The program will feature new varieties at all three locations: Walt Disney World’s nursery; Harry P. Leu Gardens; and, University of Florida’s Orange County Extension Service.

Looking to increase your knowledge of designing with color and textures? FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days is a great place to learn the latest design techniques and maintenance as well as an ideal venue to interact with the leaders of the Floriculture, Landscape and Garden Center segments of the industry. A day and a half program will offer both classroom and trial time.

Looking for sponsorship opportunities? Position your business as a leader to this key audience. Great sponsorships are available: http://www.fngla.org/events/floriculture-field-day/Sponsorship.aspx. Choose to have an exhibit table to display your business products or capture higher visibility as an exclusive event sponsor of one of the conference happenings which includes the opportunity to briefly address the group at the event. For details on participating, log on to https://www.fngla.org/events/floriculture-field-day/. For details on sponsoring, contact Linda Reindl, [email protected]. Your participation will help increase awareness and strengthen the professionalism of the industry.

FNGLA Convention Set In Historic City of Coral GablesSouth Florida history runs deep in Coral Gables where FNGLA’s Annual Convention will take place on June 12 & 13, 2015 at the Westin Colonnade.

Developed in 1925 by George Merrick, Coral Gables was one of the nation's first fully-planned communities. Incorporating secluded residential enclaves and commercial areas inspired by the architectural style of the Mediterranean, Merrick envisioned a city offering every amenity to its residents. At the same time, he foresaw a center for international business. In every respect, Merrick's dream has come true.

What is now the Westin Colonnade was at one time George Merrick’s stately offices. Coral Gables is home to several historic landmarks including The Biltmore, the Venetian Pool and the Coral Gables City Hall. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, one of Miami’s most historic locations, is not far. Also located in Coral Gables is the famed Miracle Mile shopping district, Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden, Montgomery Botanical Center and the Coral Way.

Not only can you enjoy the history of the area during FNGLA’s convention, you can also take advantage of the best of modern conveniences, including a free trolley to travel the community. Likewise, FNGLA’s Annual Convention is a celebration of the Association’s past, present and future!

So, make sure you’ve got the dates June 12 & 13 marked for your future! More details to come once the complete program is finalized and registration becomes available.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Florida Water StarSM Expands Across The StateThere are two more opportunities in Spring 2015 to take part in Florida Water StarSM training. This comprehensive water conservation program focuses on Florida-friendly landscape alternatives and irrigation requirements that can have a major impact on water usage. The day-long program includes a half day on irrigation and a half day on landscape and provides the opportunity to test to earn the FWS Accredited Professional designation.

FWS travels to Clearwater March 4 & 5, 2015 at Ewing Irrigation. Hosted by the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the program is also sponsored by Toro. This follows the February 3 FWS program hosted by the City of Palm Coast.

FWS will also be a part of the 2015 Native Plant Show in Kissimmee, hosted by the Florida Association of Native Nurseries. This is yet another example of industries working together toward a common goal of water conservation. Training is April 8 with an optional exam April 9, 2015.

Continuing education credits are approved for FNGLA Certified Professionals, Irrigation Association, Registered Landscape Architects and Volusia County’s irrigation license.

St. Johns River Water Management District has contracted with FNGLA to administer the FWS Accredited Professional exams in irrigation and landscape. To date, 178 irrigation and landscape professionals have earned the Accredited Professional designation.

Complete information about the Florida Water StarSM program can be found at www.floridawaterstar.com or contact Deirdre Irwin at the St. Johns River Water Management District, [email protected]. For more information on the March 4 or April 8 programs, contact Merry Mott, [email protected].

Interest in the water conservation program called Florida Water

StarSM brings the program to new locations in 2015.

Take Part in Cultivating Our Future LeadersAs our industry continues to gain momentum, thoughts again turn to where to find qualified employees – and who will lead our industry into the future? You can help mold our future leaders by being a part of the Florida FFA Career Development Events (CDEs).

Each year, nearly 350 students demonstrate their horticultural skills at the FFA CDEs in Floriculture and Nursery/Landscape. The 2015 event takes place Saturday, March 7 at the University of Florida Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka.

We need volunteers, exhibitors and sponsors!

FFA CDEs present students with real-life situations that could be found in the work place, including plant, pest & tool identification, equipment maintenance, landscape management, customer assistance, floral design and Best Management Practices. Both problem-solving skills and horticultural knowledge are tested by FNGLA volunteers from across the state.

The winning high school teams represent Florida at the national competition each year at the FFA Convention. In 2014, Leesburg High School earned a Silver Emblem at Nationals for Floriculture and Oak Leaf High School earned a Bronze Emblem in Nursery and Landscape.

For more information on being a part of this exceptional youth program, contact Merry Mott at FNGLA or call 800-375-3642.

Sponsors and volunteers are needed to host 350

FFA students who compete in nursery, landscape and

floriculture events.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

From the Desk of Commissioner Adam H. PutnamFlorida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services

Dear Friends,

Water is the biggest long-term issue facing Florida, regardless of what part of the state you are from. And this legislative session, we have an opportunity to tackle this issue. But we must think big and act boldly. First, we must consider how far we've come and the progress we've made in conserving and restoring the health of our water. Agriculture, for example, was once the biggest water user in the state. But by adopting new technologies and implementing best practices, we're saving 11 billion gallons of water per year. Second, we must refine and strengthen Florida's existing water policies. We have a strong foundation that requires us to assess our needs and plan for shortfalls, but we can do better. We

should ensure our water supply planning efforts are scientifically rigorous and economically feasible. We should prioritize projects so that we invest our limited resources in those that will yield the greatest impact. Finally, we must understand that it will take time to address these challenges, and we must adopt a long-term approach to do so. I look forward to working with the Florida Legislature this session to ensure we have a healthy and abundant supply of water for our future. Adam

U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory Open House 2015The public is invited to the USDA, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory annual open house on Wednesday, April 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 2001 South Rock Road, Ft. Pierce, FL.

Labs, farm, pilot plant and greenhouses will showcase research on a broad range of science topics including citrus variety genetics, disease and insect pest biology and management, water quality and post-production quality and value-added studies on fresh and processed fruits and vegetables.

For more information, please call (772) 462-5800.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Conservation Innovation Grants AvailableAgriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that applications are being accepted for up to $20 million in grants to facilitate the creation of new, innovative markets for carbon credits, providing additional revenue sources for producers to use to address natural resource conservation challenges. These grants are part of the Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG) program, authorized through the 2014 Farm Bill.

“USDA has been a leader in supporting market-based solutions to improve water quality and reduce carbon pollution,” Secretary Vilsack said. “With this opportunity, we are supporting the next generation of projects that will help mature these markets and bring them to scale to benefit both producers and the environment.”

For 2015, approximately half of the $20 million is available for environmental markets and conservation finance projects that engage agricultural producers. In past years, CIG has helped fund the development of the basic infrastructure of these markets. This year, USDA, through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking applications for projects that will build on these efforts by maturing and scaling markets and accelerating efforts to leverage private capital and investment in private lands conservation. Improved quantification tools, multi-resource crediting, and projects that substantively engage corporate or financial partners are the types of activities NRCS is pursuing.

USDA is also soliciting proposals for projects to stimulate natural resource improvements, including, but not limited to, improvements in water quantity, soil health, and wildlife habitat. Applications from this funding pool may also emphasize expected benefits to historically underserved producers, veterans, and organic producers. Applications in the fields of economics and sociology as they relate to natural resources are also being welcomed.

Under CIG, Environmental Quality Incentives Program funds are used to award competitive grants to non-Federal governmental or nongovernmental organizations, Tribes, or individuals. The 2014 Farm Bill also included language that has led to some changes in this year’s CIG funding announcement. One change eliminates the requirement that half the applicant’s match be in cash. Another expands eligibility for the 10 percent set-aside provision for historically underserved producers.

As in prior years, NRCS will accept pre-proposals for initial review before inviting entities to submit full proposals. Pre-proposals are due Tuesday, February 24, 2015. The full announcement of program funding is available at http://go.usa.gov/4Kvx. To apply electronically, visit http://www.grants.gov or contact a local NRCS office.

SUSTA Plans August Mission to Netherlands

SUSTA, the Southern United States Trade Association, is planning a horticulture outbound trade mission to the Netherlands for August 24 - 27.

Holland is the main hub in the global trade of cut flowers and ornamental plants. This trip is an opportunity to visit production plants in the Netherlands, the Phytosanitary Inspection Service, and the Aalsmeer Flower Auction. The mission also includes match making sessions and a visit to the ornamental trade show Plantarium. Plantarium sees 300 participants and over 17,000 trade visitors from Northwestern Europe.

The fee to participate is $400 before April 30 and $550 thereafter. The deadline to register is June 5. Sign-up on the events page at www.susta.org or contact Marisol Alvares at [email protected].

SUSTA will provide local business-related transportation, pre-arranged meeting services, and reimbursement of hotel costs for one participant under per-diem rates.

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CERTIFICATIONS

Bilingual judges make the FCLT-Installation exam in Davie success for both English and Spanish.

Special Landscape Certification Exams OfferedTwo unique landscape certification exams will take place this spring, offering the best opportunity to earn your FNGLA Certification. Regardless of your business mix or expertise, FNGLA has a certification program for you.

SeaWorld Horticulture in Orlando will host the first-ever combination exam where you can choose to take either FNGLA’s Certified Landscape Technician (FCLT-Installation) or Landscape Maintenance Technician (FCLMT) exam. It takes place Saturday, February 21, 2015 and space is still available. A special exam walk-through is hosted the afternoon prior to the exam at the test site.

FNGLA’s Broward Chapter and the UF Ft. Lauderdale Research Center in Davie will host another bilingual FCLT-Installation exam Friday, April 24, 2015. Training will take place Friday, April 3. The training program is offered in English only.

These hands-on landscape exams focus either on landscape installation or landscape maintenance and are perfect for the technician in the field. FCLT-Installation is also a pre-requisite for FNGLA’s Certified Landscape Contractor (FCLC) exams.

Plan to earn an FNGLA certification to increase your knowledge and professionalism – and that of your staff. For more information, contact Merry Mott at FNGLA at [email protected].

SeaWorld Horticulture will host both landscape technician exams on the same day

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MEMBER NEWS

ECGC Announces ‘Award of Distinction’ RecipientECGC Distributors, Ltd. recently announced Farm Life Tropical Foliage of Homestead, Florida is the recipient of its 2014 Award of Distinction. The award recognizes the premiere interior plant grower for the most distinctive product and distinctive service.

“We believe in partnerships with our vendors and, in this spirit, we perform evaluations and recognize those who rise to the top. This process helps build strong long-term relationships with our vendors,” said Charles Kemberling, ECGC Foliage Chair and Homestead Gardens Buyer.

Farm Life Tropical Foliage was founded in 1985 on five acres to specialize in supplying interior palms and trees. Uniquely positioned in supplying large interior foliage plants, the nursery grew to 18.5 acres of shade houses, 10 acres of marl field and 3 acres of large trees and palms. Farm Life Tropical Foliage is known for its quality product and great service to their customers.

“Being a supplier partner with the elite ECGC Group is a privilege, but to be recognized with the Award of Distinction is truly an honor. The entire Farm Life team would like to thank all the members of ECGC for this award and pledges to always provide our best products and service to your members,” said Bill Lyden, President of Farm Life Tropical Foliage.

The Awards ceremony was held at the TPIE trade show at the Greater Ft. Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center.

“We are delighted ECGC has chosen TPIE as the venue to present its award. I know many foliage companies strive to provide excellent customer service. It’s a credit to ECGC that they award their vendors for outstanding service,” said Linda Adams, TPIE Show Manager. This Award of Distinction is the only national award recognizing the interior foliage industry.

ECGC Distributors, Ltd is a LLC of the thirteen of the largest independent garden specialty centers in the United States. Participants include: Al’s Garden Center, OR; Armstrong Garden Centers, CA; Calloway’s Nurseries, TX; English Gardens, MI; Green Acres Nursery & Supply, CA; Homestead Gardens, MD; Mahoney Garden Centers, MA; Martin Viette Nurseries, NY; Molbak’s, WA; McDonald Garden Centers, VA; Petitti’s Garden Centers, OH; Pike Nurseries, GA; and Southern Homes & Gardens, AL.

Gatorade Turns 50!Developed at the University of Florida fifty years ago, Gatorade is acknowledged as the largest, most successful noncarbonated beverage brand in the United States, dominating its market and growing even as other carbonated drinks decline among health-conscious consumers.

Dr. Robert Cade, the lead inventor of Gatorade and a professor at UF, died in 2007 but not before seeing his team’s invention become a huge success. In fact, Gatorade’s financial contributions to the University of Florida are in excess of $200 million.

Gatorade sold 632 million cases in 2013, almost double from 339 million in 2001. This underscores its growth and value to the University as a valued income stream. Its identifiable plastic bottles with the bright orange cap are everywhere.

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NEW MEMBERS

Welcome New MembersThe following are new FNGLA members: from December 22, 2014 - January 21, 2015

ACTIONFrank Polly Sod, Inc.Mark Kirkland14300 Eastside StGroveland, FL 34736 352-429-9162Rec’d by: Bill Klinger,Brantley Nurseries

BROWARDCity of Pompano BeachRobert Kussner (Supportive)100 W Atlantic BlvdPompano Beach, FL 33060-6099 954-786-4926

Town of Pembroke ParkTom Wilde (Supportive)3150 SW 52 AvePembroke Park, FL 33023 954-450-1606

COASTAL SPRINGSHernando County Florida-Friendly LandscapingLillian Browning (Supportive)21030 Cortez BlvdBrooksville, FL 34601 352-540-6230

FRONTRUNNERSBlossman GasPeter Dawson526 NW 21 StOcala, FL 34475 352-445-2950

King Insurance Agency of Gainesville, Inc.Chad King2321 NW 41st StGainesville, FL 32606 352-377-0420Nancy McDonald, NGM Productions, Inc.

HIGHLANDS HEARTLANDAgri Masters Citrus NurseryJoe Kurimai77 Henry DrVenus, FL 33960 321-377-5062

MIAMI-DADEFarmFreak.comRobert Suh16343 SW 256th StHomestead, FL 33031 305-916-0800Rec’d by: David Hanck, Hanck Groves & Nursery

Florida Dept. of TransportationDavid J Calhoun (Supportive)1773 NE 205 StMiami, FL 33179 305-640-7156Rec’d by: Mary Oglesby,Oglesby Plants International

TreeWorld WholesaleGuillermo Valenzuela24605 SW 192 AveHomestead, FL 33031 305-245-6886

VertibloomMoshe Miller3921 Alton Rd Ste 166Miami Beach, FL 33140 917-676-2003

PALM BEACHSuellen Granberry-Hager (Student)6444 Amberwoods DrBoca Raton, FL 33433 561-414-6555

PANHANDLEChavers Construction Inc.Ryan Chavers211 W Detroit BlvdPensacola, FL 32534 850-474-1966Rec’d by: Tim Dickens, Coastal Machinery

The Jay Odom Group, LLCJay Odom4652 Gulfstarr DrDestin, FL 32541 850-654-4120Rec’d by: Keith Sylvest, Coastal Machinery

HHH Construction of NWF, Inc.Ricky Herdon8190 Belle Pines LnPensacola, FL 32526 850-982-1719Rec’d by: Tim Dickens,Coastal Machinery Co

ROYAL PALMDonna Pynn (Student)10527 Azzurra DrFt. Myers, FL 33913 239-362-3352

TREASURE COASTCW Willis & Company Inc.-Landscape Products Div.Melissa WillisPO Box 643809Vero Beach, FL 32964 772-770-5970

Recent Industry Deaths: DeLeon and CharltonFNGLA sadly reports Nathan (Nat) DeLeon, 78, passed away January 28. Nat was born in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania in 1927. He attended the University of Miami after serving in the United States Navy during World War II. Though Nat loved all plants, he especially loved bromeliads and began hybridizing them in 1957. He holds 5 bromeliad patents with 3 more patents pendings. Nat spent years collecting and hybridizing bromeliads, and made thousands of hybrids for bromeliad enthusiasts around the globe for their enjoyment. Nat could be seen making his hybrids daily at DeLeon’s Bromeliads. Nat also developed most of the early commercial Aglaonemas and set a standard for the future Aglaonema market. Nat will always be remembered for his kind heart, sharing with friends and family, his contributions to the foliage industry, and his pride in making the Parrot Jungle memorable. Nat is survived by his three sons, Robert, Richard and Donald and four grandchildren. Nat will be missed.

Jim Charlton passed away Friday, February 6 after a significant battle with cancer. A long-time leader and landscape property manager with Disney Horticulture, Jim served FNGLA in a variety of capacities, most significantly as a Landscape Show committee member and show chairman. Jim was a kind and gracious soul with an infectious smile. He and his wife, Linda, have been very active members of the Open Door Baptist Church in Clermont. Jim will be missed.

Page 16: FNGLA's February 2015 Greenline

Calendar of EventsFNGLAPhone: 407.295.7994Toll-free: 800.375.3642Fax: 407.295.1619E-mail: [email protected]: www.fngla.org

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERBen Bolusky

GREENLINE EDITORJennifer [email protected]

PresidentSandy SteinThe Jungle Nursery29100 SW 162 AveHomestead, FL 33030(305) 246-5324

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

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

Secretary/Treasurer Robert ShoelsonGetting Green Plant Services & Betrock Information SystemsPO Box 840107Pembroke Pines, FL 33084(954) 680-1819

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

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2014-2015 STATE OFFICERS

1533 Park Center Dr iveOr lando, FL 32835-5705

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

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

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

February12: Landscape U: Palm Pests, UF/IFAS Orange County Extension, Orlando

20: 2015 Tree and Landscape Short Course, Hillsborough Community College, Plant City

21: FNGLA Certified Landscape Technician Exam, SeaWorkd Horticulture Building, Orlando

23: Certified Arborist Preparation Class begins, Oakland Park

26: GI-BMP Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Best Management Practices, UF/IFAS Osceola County Extension Service, Kissimmee

27: Certified ISA Arborist Training, Cantonment

March10 & 11: FNGLA/LMN Build A Better Landscape Business, RingPower CAT, St. Augustine

12: Pests of Annual and Perennial Flowers, UF/IFAS Orange County Extension, Orlando

12 & 13: FNGLA/LMN Build A Better Landscape Business, Kelly Tractor, West Palm Beach