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Written by Colorado State University
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Tuesday, October 08, 2024 12:00 AM |
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The Landscape Design and Contracting program at Colorado State University continues to grow and prepare students for roles across the Green Industry. Student experiences and industry partnerships have helped the program enrollment increase by more than 135 percent during the last two years. Industry partnerships have resulted in 8 named spaces that have not only recognized generous individuals and companies investing in the Landscape Design and Contracting program but have provided financial resources for students to experience academic opportunities never previously realized. One of the greatest initiatives has been to develop an outdoor learning lab for students and reinforce classroom and studio experiences. The outdoor learning center is a four-acre site located at ARDEC South, the old Hort Farm just north of Fort Collins. In this space, students have opportunities to operate equipment, build scaled-down projects, install irrigation systems, and practice project layouts. Important research in water conservation and native revegetation is also being completed on this site.
In addition to financial gifts, numerous manufacturers have provided equipment ranging from excavators, and skid steers, to a comprehensive fleet of battery-operated maintenance and construction tools. Students are learning firsthand about the true capabilities of battery-powered equipment and how they will play a significant role in the future of the profession.
Students continue to be recognized locally and nationally through scholarships to fund their education. This year nearly 20 percent of students received scholarships from numerous sources, including ALCC.
In March, students competed at the National Collegiate Landscape Competition at Brigham Young University. Students compete in events ranging from landscape design, estimating plant identification and hands-on events such as hardscape installation.
The Colorado State University team finished 3rd among more than 60 colleges and universities. Numerous students placed in the top 5 of their events, with some even winning their events. Colorado State University is excited to be the host University this spring for the 49th annual National Collegiate Landscape Competition. CSU expects more than 60 schools to compete and over 120 companies to participate in the career fair portion.
As the Landscape Design and Contracting program continually evaluates its curriculum, its required internships provide students with opportunities to explore career paths and companies. This year, over 25 students completed internships in more than 10 states and 2 countries. Students completed internships in design, construction, estimating and landscape management, as well as sustainable agriculture.
To ensure continual improvements, the program continues to be guided by an industry advisory committee. The advisory committee is comprised of roughly 15 industry professionals representing companies, including manufacturers and suppliers, of all sizes and disciplines from across the country. This committee meets each fall and spring, acting as the board of directors. This year's fall meeting is the most comprehensive, held over two days on our campus. The committee helps CSU ensure that classes, teaching content and student experiences are unparalleled.
As the Landscape Design and Contracting program continues to grow and meet the future leadership, CSU looks forward to continued partnerships within the industry to ensure that everyone gets both the guidance and resources required to deliver a world-class program.
Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:
Join us! Water Conservation Workshop
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Written by NALP
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Tuesday, October 08, 2024 12:00 AM |
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National Association of Landscape Professionals Announces 2024-2025 Board of Directors
The National Association of Landscape Professionals is proud to announce its newly appointed Board of Directors for the 2024-2025 term.
“We are thrilled that these talented individuals comprise our 2024-2025 Board of Directors,” said Britt Wood, CEO of NALP. “Their diverse experiences and deep understanding of the landscape industry will help us continue to advance our mission of promoting professionalism and protecting and growing the industry.”
New Board members include Jennifer Burnett from LandCare, Angela Hieronimus from Blades of Green, and Will Pereira (former ALCC Board President) from BrightView.
Officers:
- Chair: Pam Dooley, Plants Creative Landscapes, Decatur, Georgia
- Vice Chair: Roscoe Klausing, Klausing Group, Lexington, Kentucky
Directors-At-Large:
- Beth Berry, Advanced Turf Solutions, Fishers, Indiana
- Nick Brummel, Brummel Lawn & Landscape LLC, Blue Springs, Missouri
- Jennifer Burnett, LandCare, San Diego, California
- Dan Carrothers, FMC, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Ivan Giraldo, Clean Scapes LP, Austin, Texas
- Claire Goldman, R&R Landscaping, Waverly, Alabama
- Warren Gorowitz, Hunter Industries, San Marcos, California
- John Guth, Green Lawn Fertilizing/Green Pest Solutions, West Chester, Pennsylvania
- Angela Hieronimus, Blades of Green, Edgewater, Maryland
- Jennifer Jorge, King Green, Gainesville, Georgia
- Chris Lee, Earthworks Inc., Lillian, Texas
- Doug McDuff, Landscape America, Wrentham, Massachusetts
- Will Pereira, BrightView, Belgrade, Montana
- Tim Portland, Yellowstone Landscape, Charlotte, North Carolina
- J.T. Price, Landscape Workshop, Vestavia Hills, Alabama
- Teddy Russell, Russell Landscape Group, Sugar Hill, Georgia
- Brandon Sheppard, Weed Man, Winchester, Virginia
- Chris Senske, Senske Services, Kennewick, Washington
The new board officially took office on October 2, 2024.
About NALP
The National Association of Landscape Professionals is the national trade association and leading voice for the $150 billion landscape industry, which employs more than 1 million professionals. NALP helps shape policy and regulations and provides industry-leading education, training, and resources that help industry companies reach their highest potential. For more information, visit www.landscapeprofessionals.org
Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:
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Written by Colorado Springs Utilities
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Tuesday, October 08, 2024 12:00 AM |
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In partnership with ALCC, Colorado Springs Utilities is seeking landscape, irrigation, water conservation, and education experts to join in a one-day regional workshop to craft a future for landscape water conservation education.
With your help, we can identify key workforce skills and knowledge to help build the resilient landscapes of the future.
Please fill out your contact information below to stay up to date. More information will be sent out when the final date and location has been determined.
We look forward to working with you on this important project.
Sign up to learn more
Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:
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Written by Colorado Green Now
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Tuesday, October 01, 2024 12:00 AM |
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Gardeners love seeing their hard work pay off for years. They have discovered some incredible plants that can stand the test of time. These enduring beauties not only enhance your garden year after year but also reduce the amount of maintenance and replanting you need to do. Imagine having a garden that matures and flourishes over decades!
Peonies are an all-time favorite! These gorgeous blooms can live for over 50 years if they’re well cared for. Peonies are known for their lush, fragrant flowers that come in a variety of colors, from deep reds to soft pinks and whites. They typically bloom in late spring to early summer, providing a stunning display that can last for weeks.
One of the best things about peonies is their resilience. Once established, they require minimal maintenance and are quite hardy, able to withstand cold winters. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them an excellent choice for many garden settings. With peonies, you’re not just planting flowers; you’re creating a legacy of beauty that will be enjoyed for generations.
The elegance and grace that Japanese Maples bring to a garden is unbelievable. They are relatively slow growing, which means they won't outgrow their space quickly. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, making them versatile for different garden areas. Whether planted as a standalone feature or among other plants, Japanese Maples are sure to captivate and endure.
Hostas are renowned for their lush, green foliage and their ability to thrive in shady areas. These perennial plants can live for several decades, often lasting up to 50 years or more. Their broad, textured leaves come in a variety of shades, from deep blue green to bright chartreuse, adding depth and interest to your garden.
One of the things appreciated most about hostas is their low-maintenance nature. Once established, they are quite hardy and can withstand various soil conditions. They also produce lovely, fragrant flowers in the summer, adding even more appeal. Hostas are perfect for those tricky shady spots in your garden, bringing longevity and beauty where other plants might struggle.
Rhododendrons are another fantastic choice for a long-lived garden. These evergreen shrubs can live for 50 years or more, providing year-round interest with their glossy leaves and stunning springtime flowers. The blooms come in a range of colors, from bright pinks and purples to soft whites and yellows.
Rhododendrons has an ability to create a striking visual impact. They prefer acidic, well-drained soil and partial shade, making them ideal for woodland gardens or shaded borders. With their long lifespan and minimal maintenance needs, rhododendrons are a great investment for any garden enthusiast looking for enduring beauty.
Wisteria vines are known for their cascading clusters of fragrant flowers that can transform any garden into a fairy tale setting. These vines can live for over 50 years, often becoming more beautiful with age as they develop thick, twisted trunks and abundant blooms.
One of the joys of growing wisteria is watching it climb and cover trellises, arbors, or even the side of your house! They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring some annual pruning to keep them in check. The longevity and dramatic beauty of wisteria make it a cherished plant for creating a lasting impact in your garden.
Camellias are evergreen shrubs that can live for up to 100 years, offering year-round interest with their glossy leaves and stunning blooms. These flowers typically bloom in late winter to spring, providing a burst of color when many other plants are still dormant. The flowers come in various colors, including pink, red, and white.
Camellias are known for their resilience and beauty. They prefer partial shade and acidic, well-drained soil, making them ideal for woodland gardens or shaded borders. With their long lifespan and minimal care requirements, camellias are a perfect choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of elegance that will last for generations.
Lavender is not only beloved for its beautiful purple flowers and delightful fragrance but also for its impressive lifespan. Lavender plants can live for up to 20 years, making them a fantastic investment for any garden. Their aromatic flowers are perfect for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding both beauty and biodiversity to your garden.
What's great about lavender is its versatility and ease of care. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and once established, it's quite drought tolerant. Whether you're growing it in a garden bed or in containers, lavender will provide years of beauty and fragrance with minimal fuss.
Holly shrubs are renowned for their glossy, spiny leaves and bright red berries that add a festive touch to any garden. These hardy plants can live for up to 100 years, making them a long-lasting addition to your landscape. They provide year-round interest, with their vibrant berries attracting birds and other wildlife.
Hollies thrive in a variety of soil conditions and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. With their long lifespan and evergreen nature, hollies are perfect for creating a garden that looks great no matter the season.
Boxwood shrubs are a staple in formal gardens, known for their dense, evergreen foliage and their ability to be shaped into beautiful hedges and topiaries. These plants can live for up to 100 years, making them a timeless addition to any garden. Their small, glossy leaves create a refined look that's perfect for borders, pathways, and garden structures.
One of the things appreciated most about boxwoods is their versatility and ease of maintenance. They can thrive in both sun and shade and are quite tolerant of various soil conditions. With their longevity and classic beauty, boxwoods are an excellent choice for gardeners looking to create a polished and enduring landscape.
Daylilies are hardy perennials known for their bright, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom throughout the summer. These plants can live for decades, with some varieties thriving for up to 50 years! Daylilies come in a wide range of colors, adding a vibrant touch to any garden.
Daylilies are loved for their resilience and continuous blooms. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and once established, they require minimal care. Their long lifespan and stunning flowers make daylilies a wonderful addition to any garden, providing years of joy and color.
Hydrangeas are beloved for their large, showy flower clusters that come in a variety of colors, from blues and pinks to whites and purples. These shrubs can live for up to 50 years, offering a long-lasting display of beauty. Hydrangeas are particularly known for their ability to change color based on the soil's pH level, adding an extra layer of interest to your garden.
What's great about hydrangeas is their adaptability and ease of care. They thrive in both sun and shade, making them versatile for different garden areas. With their long lifespan and stunning blooms, hydrangeas are a perfect choice for gardeners looking to create a lasting impression.
Yucca plants are known for their striking, sword-like leaves and tall flower spikes that can reach up to 10 feet high. These hardy plants can live for several decades, often thriving for 20 years or more. Yuccas are drought-tolerant and can withstand a variety of soil conditions, making them ideal for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
Yuccas are fascinating for their architectural beauty and resilience. They thrive in full sun and require minimal care once established. With their long lifespan and unique appearance, yuccas are a great choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of the exotic to their landscape. Investing in long-lived plants not only enhances the beauty of your garden but also provides a sense of continuity and growth over the years. From the elegant peonies and resilient lavender to the striking wisteria and adaptable hydrangeas, these plants are sure to bring lasting joy and beauty to your outdoor space.
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Written by Colorado Green Now
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Saturday, September 21, 2024 12:00 AM |
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If you are in a leadership position you understand that your people need to know how they are doing. They need to know if they are meeting your expectations. They need to know if what they are doing is adding value to the organization. They need to know if they are making a difference.
Giving meaningful feedback is crucial for the personal and professional growth of the people you lead. Here are some steps that might help you give meaningful feedback.
BE SPECIFIC. Address particular actions, behaviors, or situations rather than generalizations.
BE TIMELY. Offer feedback as soon as possible after the event or behavior you're addressing. This ensures that the details are fresh in both your mind and the recipients, making the feedback more relevant and actionable.
BE BALANCED. Provide a mix of positive feedback and constructive criticism. Highlight what the person did well, and then suggest areas for improvement. This balance helps maintain motivation and morale while still encouraging growth.
FOCUS ON BEHAVIOR, NOT PERSONALITY. Feedback should address actions or behaviors, not the individual's personality or character. Express your observations and feelings.
OFFER CONSTRUCTIVE CRITCISM. When providing criticism, be constructive and offer suggestions for improvement. Avoid simply pointing out flaws without providing guidance on how to address them.
BE SINCERE AND GENUINE. Authenticity is key to meaningful feedback. Ensure that your feedback comes from a place of genuine concern and desire to help the person grow, rather than from a place of criticism or judgement.
ENCOURAGE DIALOGUE. Feedback should be a two-way conversation. Encourage the recipient to ask questions, seek clarification, or share their perspective. This fosters mutual understanding and allows for a more productive exchange of feedback.
SET CLEAR EXPECTATIONS. Clearly communicate your expectations moving forward, especially if the feedback is related to performance or behavior in a specific context. This helps the recipient understand what changes or improvements are needed.
FOLLOW UP. Check in periodically to see how the person is progressing based on the feedback you provided. Offer ongoing support and guidance as needed, and acknowledge improvements or efforts made.
Giving meaningful feedback is not just about pointing out what went wrong. A leader is concerned about helping individuals learn and grow to reach their full potential.
Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:
The power of compost
What effective winter preparation requires
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Written by Colorado Green Now
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Saturday, September 21, 2024 12:00 AM |
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Effective winter preparation requires practice and good communication
The name of the game in the snow and ice management industry is preparedness. With high performance comes great planning and preparation of your personnel, equipment, procedures, and training programs. To make sure you meet your client's expected level of service, you will need to take the time to prepare and communicate your processes and expectations with everyone involved in snow and ice operations. We're going to look at some industry best practices in preparing for any situation or service you may have to perform throughout the winter.
1. Scheduling of winter preparation activities
When creating the preparedness schedule, be cognizant of the responsibilities and seasonal work transitions for the rest of the organization.
As you plan meetings and trainings, as well as testing and site prep, work with the team so people can make the time to attend, while giving snow preparation their utmost attention. With the transitioning of activities, it can be difficult to get others in the mindset of snow when it's 80 degrees outside and they're trying to complete their summer/fall services.
Communicate the importance of preparing, while respecting others' daily responsibilities. With that said, start planning early! Don't wait until late fall to start this process...too much is happening to have it all come together quickly. One of the best key indicators of designating a planning start date is the size of your organization and whether you perform landscaping or construction services throughout the year.
Develop a winter prep strategy
Your winter prep strategy should include planning procedures, processes, and communication. The onset of your strategy development does not need to be a lengthy booklet or procedural guideline but rather a one-sheet plan of what you need to do and how you will achieve it.
The most integral starting point is to identify key internal stakeholders who will help build your preparation plan and carry out all objectives. Include department managers, supervisors, foremen, lead roles, and any other necessary personnel who have a level of decision-making, even if they aren't the highest decision-makers.
Next, create the list of required components within the plan by highlighting main categories such as:
- Schedule of preparation activities
- Personnel needs and training requirements
- Equipment needs
- Site planning and level of service requirements
- Event planning (categorization)
- Communication
This isn't an inclusive list; add or change anything that is unique to your organization.
2. Personnel needs and training requirements
Work with your team to identify the personnel needed for snow and ice operations, and what training is to be performed. Identify snow supervisors, account managers, drivers, equipment operators, and shovelers early so you can formulate a complete training schedule. Much of the training can be completed prior to the first snow event, but there may by situations where you need to perform live, hands-on snow and ice training. You may have to retain to adapt if equipment, processes, materials or new sites are added.
3. Equipment needs
We all know the importance of identifying equipment that is necessary to snow and ice operations. We're going to be a bit redundant, but plan and schedule early! Create inspection lists for vehicles and equipment, a schedule for all departments, and coordinate repairs before the first winter weather event.
Ensure inspections are completed early so you have time to order the necessary parts for repairs; have time to repair all vehicles and equipment; and perform final tests before putting them into action. This is another complicated process if much of your equipment is also being used during the summer and fall for other services.
4. Site planning and level of service requirements
While some sites may be comparable, many sites are unique and pose different risks and challenges for snow and ice operations. Don't take anything for granted; and don't assume you know everything about your personnel, site or clients in preparing for winter. Take your time to walk all properties with the client, and look for any potential risks, hazards, property changes, alterations or damage prior to performing any services.
One of the most impactful situations to all parties is when a property change has taken place since the last snow season, and nobody accounted for it going into the next season. This could be pavement changes, drainage alterations, property damage, missing or added signage, or anything that may change how winter service is performed.
Once you've completed your site walk with the client, created site maps, and identified the driver, operator or personnel responsible for the site, take the crews out and perform dry runs and walkthroughs to ensure everybody knows who will be there, what services will encompass and what risks to look out for.
5. Event planning (Categorization)
Planning for different types of events may be challenging especially since weather patterns, frequency and severity are ever changing. It is best to create a few scenarios of how response efforts may take place. I would recommend starting with five levels of event severity and planning that take into account factors such as:
- Snow accumulation
- Dramatic temperature fluctuations
- Wind chill factors
- Ice storm totals and buildup
- Geographical challenges and regional spread
- Equipment and personnel mobilization
In this case, a Level 1 event is less severe or a minimal type of event, working up to a more-severe Level 5. Some organizations use color-coding for easy reference since it provides visual communication triggers that wording may not. Red may be the most severe, whereas yellow can be less severe. The key items you will want to include for documentation and process includes:
- Response and service efforts
- Timeframe for response or deployment
- Follow-up or revisit plans
- Communication responsibilities between parties
- How to clear or remove snow and ice under prolonged or extended events
- What to do in case of natural disaster or state of emergency situations
While these plans may take time to develop at the executive and management level, they can be an extremely useful tool for everyone in the organization as they can refer to designated procedures at any time.
Another objective is to communicate early, frequently, and when necessary, and including all relevant information to streamline the process. Communication is vital in determining the schedule for personnel and equipment prep, site planning, carrying out meetings and training for your snow and ice operations.
On a final note, remember that people communicate differently, and you should identify the most effective channels. Whether it is in person, hands-on, visual, auditory, email, phone calls or text messages, keep track of the communication preferences of those you work with, and those you have contracted with to perform snow and ice services.
Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:
The power of compost
How to give meaningful feedback
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Written by Clinton T. Sander
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Wednesday, September 18, 2024 12:00 AM |
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Enhancing water retention in Colorado landscapes
For commercial landscape professionals in Colorado, where water conservation is paramount, understanding the water-retention abilities of compost as a soil amendment is crucial. With drought and water scarcity an omnipresent possibility, harnessing the power of organic matter in compost will lead to more sustainable and resilient landscapes.
Compost, often referred to as “black gold” in the gardening world, is a powerful tool for enhancing soil health and water retention. According to the EPA, compost-amended soil increases water-holding capacity, reducing the frequency and volume of irrigation needed. This is particularly significant in arid and semi-arid regions like Colorado, where every drop of water counts.
The U.S. Composting Council emphasizes that compost acts like a sponge in the soil, absorbing and holding moisture while allowing for adequate drainage. This characteristic is invaluable for drought-tolerant landscaping, where plants must thrive in limited water conditions or through restrictions on watering times.
EPA research indicates that compost- amended soil can hold up to 30 percent more water than non-amended soil. This means that for every inch of rain or irrigation, compost-enriched soil can retain a significantly higher amount of moisture, reducing runoff and irrigation times.
A U.S. Composting Council study found that landscapes with compost-amended soil showed a 50 percent reduction in water usage compared with landscapes with non-amended soil. These numbers underscore the practical benefits of integrating compost into landscape management strategies, especially in water-stressed environments.
The key to drought-tolerant landscaping
The Colorado landscape industry is no stranger to drought challenges. Drought- tolerant landscaping has become a necessity rather than a choice, and compost plays a pivotal role in achieving and maintaining it. Adding 1 percent of organic matter to the top 6 inches of soil can increase the soil’s water- retention capacity to 27,000 gallons of water per acre, according to USDA’s National Resource Conservation Service.
By improving soil structure and porosity, compost facilitates deeper root penetration and stronger plant establishment. This is crucial during dry spells, as plants with robust root systems can access moisture from lower soil layers, reducing their dependence on surface-level watering.
Moreover, compost supports development of a healthy soil microbiome, fostering symbiotic relationships between plants and beneficial microorganisms. This biological activity enhances nutrient uptake, stress tolerance and overall plant vitality, essential components of effective drought-management strategies.
Kyle Merritt, director of operations/superintendent at Eaton Country Club and president of Rocky Mountain Environmental Golf Institute, states, “For over 10 years, we have utilized A1 Organics Command Compost to accelerate growth and germination, facilitating swift restoration of divot holes in problematic areas within the fairway turf and areas with inadequate irrigation to improve the water retention.”
Compost is a cornerstone of water-wise landscaping in Colorado. Its proven water retention abilities, supported by data from reputable organizations like the EPA and the U.S. Composting Council, make it an indispensable ally in combating drought and promoting landscape sustainability. By harnessing the power of compost, commercial landscape professionals can generate or restore resilient, thriving environments while conserving precious water resources for future generations.
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Written by Northern Water
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Monday, September 09, 2024 12:00 AM |
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Save the Date: Celebrate Northern Water’s New Headquarters
A community celebration to mark the grand opening of Northern Water’s newly renovated Berthoud headquarters and Conservation Campus will be from 2-5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4.
Members of the public are welcome to tour the new Building A during the open house to learn about the organization, project information and program highlights from our Conservation Campus.
As a public agency that operates water supply and delivery projects and promotes conservation, Northern Water employs over 180 people between its Berthoud headquarters and West Slope facilities in Grand County. Our employees work to bring clean, supplemental water to municipalities, industries and farmers through the Colorado-Big Thompson and Windy Gap projects. However, these operations have grown more complex as we integrate contemporary water collection and delivery challenges into our daily operations. Additionally, our region is growing, and we are designing new projects to meet future demands.
When built in 2003, Northern Water’s Berthoud campus was sized to accommodate 15 years of growth. While the facilities are in excellent condition and have worked well for our needs, we have outgrown the space. A Master Plan identified various projects for expansion on our campus, as well as the need for the new Willow Creek Campus near Granby for West Slope staff, which opened in 2022.
Construction on the project throughout the past four years included renovation of the main headquarters building, the addition of an operations and maintenance building, a new training and storage building, and an outdoor education pavilion. Improvements were also made to the Conservation Campus, where demonstrations of efficient water use are on display throughout the grounds. At the center of the campus, the Conservation Gardens offer templates for water wise use, with plants chosen because of their beauty and suitability for the Front Range climate.
The recently completed campus development project will help Northern Water meet the challenges of providing service to a growing Front Range and ultimately operating two new water supply projects.
Click here for more information from Northern Water
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Written by Colorado Green Now
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Wednesday, August 21, 2024 12:00 AM |
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Though a Denver Post article suggested otherwise, the Colorado Legislature did not ban ornamental grasses during its last session. Legislators did pass a bill specifically targeting non-functional turf grass, artificial turf, and invasive species. This bill will be prohibiting their installation on most commercial, industrial, and state government properties, including medians, parking lots and roadways. Residential properties, except for those managed by homeowners’ associations, are generally exempt.
The bill does not address plants like ‘Karl Foerster’ feather reed grass, blue fescue grass, blue avena grass and maiden grass, known for their low water requirements and drought tolerance. It’s important to note that the bill never mentions the term “ornamental.” This misconception stemmed from the Denver Post article, causing confusion among landscapers and nurseries.
Colorado Nursery & Greenhouse Association alerted the Post to the miswording, and the newspaper pledged to clarify the story.
Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:
Celebrate Northern Water’s New Headquarters
Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15 - Oct. 15
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Written by Colorado Green Now
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Wednesday, August 21, 2024 12:00 AM |
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For more than 50 years Hispanic Heritage Month has been celebrated from September 15 to October 15. The month is a time to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Hispanic and Latinx people. It also recognizes the contributions of these groups to American society, art, culture, and the economy. The theme for Hispanic Heritage Month in 2024 is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together”. The theme is meant to capture the spirit of unity, resilience, and innovation.
To show your companies appreciation, consider organizing events or gestures highlighting their contributions—such as a special lunch, personalized thank-you notes, or sharing stories of their impact in company communications. These actions not only honor their hard work but also foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
Hispanic Heritage Month Facts
Each year, the United States observes National Hispanic Heritage Month. But how long has the U.S. been doing this? Was it always a month? Why does it begin in the middle of September?
1. National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15
2. National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America
3. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson
4. It was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period
5. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988
6. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua
7. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively
8. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30-day period
9. The Law Library of Congress has compiled guides to commemorative observations, including a comprehensive inventory of the Public Laws, Presidential Proclamations and congressional resolutions related to National Hispanic Heritage Month
10. Images, photos and teachers’ resources about National Hispanic Heritage Month are available at https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/
For a list of Hispanic Heritage Celebrations happening in Denver click here.
Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:
Celebrate Northern Water’s New Headquarters
Bill does not ban ornamental grasses
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Written by Colorado Green Now
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Wednesday, August 21, 2024 12:00 AM |
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On Saturday, July 27, Jim Borland, an industry icon, peacefully passed away. Jim was the head of propagation for many years at the Denver Botanic Gardens, among his many other career adventures including being co-host of a popular radio show called, The Garden Wise Guys. Jim was dedicated to advancing horticultural practices and educating anyone who would listen. Jim was a true inspiration to both the young and the old horticulturalists with his wisdom and enthusiasm. Jim had a wealth of knowledge of xeric and no-water gardening. He advocated for sustainable and innovative landscapes.
A Celebration of Life open house for Jim will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024, in Mitchell Hall at Denver Botanic Gardens from 4-7 PM. In honor of Jim, please wear clothing with Hawaiian patterns, plant themes, or colorful patterns.
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Written by Colorado Green Now
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Wednesday, August 21, 2024 12:00 AM |
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Relying on hostas and ferns in the shadier garden is still a successful approach to addressing color and texture in those low light conditions. While there are also a wide range of other herbaceous treasures for the shade, including sedges, hellebores, lungwort's and barrenworts, having additional large and bold plants in the design is warranted. Yellow wax bells have an increasing popularity and availability, they are indispensable for color and texture and are a favorite among gardeners. They are graceful additions to shadier gardens with their bold, maple-like foliage and yellow summer flowers.
Native to mountainous area, this member of the Hydrangeaceae family is a clump-forming plant, with large, palmate, deeply lobed and coarsely toothed leaves that really catch the eye. The exotic leaves have a nice gold fall color as well. This, bold, herbaceous plant will quickly grow to the shrub-like proportions of 4' tall and wide on average. The stems are solidly sturdy and have a purplish tint. Preferring part shard or shade, yellow wax bells does need moisture and will exhibit more flowering in brighter locations. This plant has no significant pest of disease issues and is deer resistant.
The dramatic backdrop first-rate foliage becomes the foil for pale, buttery yellow and pendulous blooms (1.5" long) held in clusters of 3-5 flowers. The flowers start as spherical buds on branched structures in mid-summer and the tubular flowers partially open to feature five petals with pointed tips turned outwards. It's interesting that visually, the flowers don't truly open all the way up. The flowers last for many weeks in the head of summer, blooming early with flowers held a bit more open and upright.
The long-lasting flowers of yellow wax bells are certainly noteworthy, but the foliage contributions of this perennial are significant from spring emergence until hard frost. The late season fruiting structures are a unique, horned fruit with three "horns" protruding from a swollen capsule. Having another textural marvel for the shade that will achieve shrub-size proportions should be on everyone's design radar.
Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:
Jim Borland 1946-2024
DEFOLIATING insects in CO- if left uncontrolled, will kill the trees
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Written by Colorado Green Now
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Wednesday, August 21, 2024 12:00 AM |
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Rare insects are now being spotted in Colorado
1. Mimosa Webworm - Mature caterpillars are up to 1 inch (25 mm) long, grayish to dark brown and have five white stripes running the length of the body. During summer, large loose tents produced by the fall webworm (Hyphantria cunea) are seen on the branches of cottonwoods, chokecherry, and many other plants. Occasionally early spring outbreaks of caterpillars of the tiger moth (Lophocampa species) attract attention. Four species of tent caterpillars occur in Colorado.
2. Douglas fir Tussock Moth - In Colorado, isolated outbreaks tend to be cyclic in nature and may occur in intervals of seven to 10 years across the state. Adult male moths are a non-descript, gray-brown moths with feathery antennae and a wingspread of 1-1 1/4 inches (25-32 mm). The female is flightless and notably different from the male in that it has rudimentary wings and a large abdomen, usually about 3/4 inch (19 mm) long. Young larvae possess fine hairs; older larvae have two tufts behind the head, one posterior tuft, and four dense tussocks located along the back. Larvae grow up to 1 1/4 inches (32 mm). Eggs are laid in a mass on top of the cocoon from which the female moth emerges.
Control of both insects is relatively easy. However, they produce hundreds of eggs and can spread quickly!
Homadaula anisocentra, also known as the mimosa webworm, is a species of moth in the family Galacticidae. It is considered a pest of ornamental plants. They attack the leaves of mimosa and honey locust. This species was introduced into the United States from China in the 1940s.
Mimosa webworms attack both mimosa and honey locust trees. Widespread use of thornless honey locusts as ornamentals has heightened interest in the control of this insect because all varieties of the tree are susceptible to attack.
Damage is done by webworm caterpillars, which web foliage together and skeletonize leaflets. The insect has two generations each year. However, injury is most noticeable by August when second-generation larvae are at the peak of activity. Continued feeding may cause infested trees to turn brown as if scorched by fire.
DESCRIPTION AND LIFE HISTORY
Adult mimosa webworms are small, silvery-gray moths which have wings stippled with black dots. Moths of the first generation appear in early June, while those of the second generation are seen in late July and early August. Adults lay eggs on foliage and in old webbing. Eggs are tiny, oval, and at first pearly-white, but turn pink as hatching time nears. Full-grown caterpillars are about 1 inch long and grayish brown in color with five lime green stripes running lengthwise down the body. They have a dark head, and the body is sometimes tinged with pink.
First-generation caterpillars spin their cocoons between the folded leaves that they have webbed together. Second-generation caterpillars leave the tree canopy to find a site where they can spend the winter in cocoons protected from cold temperatures. In urban areas, this is often on tree trunks near buildings and paved areas or on the buildings themselves. The white cocoons resemble puffed rice and are often found in groups.
SUSCEPTIBILITY OF HONEYLOCUST
Due to their inability to survive cold temperatures, mimosa webworm tends to be a problem in urban areas. Of all thornless honey locust clones, Sunburst seems to be the most susceptible to webworm attack. Other varieties including Shade master, Skyline, Moraine and Imperial are less susceptible but still subject to severe injury. Mass plantings of ANY of the thornless varieties should be avoided unless the trees can be sprayed.
CONTROL RECOMMENDATIONS
In the absence of pesticide use, mimosa webworm problems occur in sheltered urban areas or along roadsides. The many insects and birds that feed on the caterpillars are likely to prevent the injury from harming tree health. To prevent unsightly amounts of webbing, trees can be sprayed with insecticides that target young caterpillars in mid-late June and in late July to early August.
The Douglas-fir tussock moth is a common defoliator of Douglas-fir and true firs.
Hosts—In forested settings, the Douglas-fir tussock moth prefers Douglas fir. It is also occasionally found on true firs or spruce. Forest infestations can be intense, and other species of conifers surrounding Douglas-fir trees are often also defoliated. In urban settings, blue spruce is attacked. Urban infestations are often confined to individual trees, and the same trees may be attacked year after year, which can cause considerable damage or mortality.
Life Cycle—Douglas-fir tussock moth has a 1-year life cycle and overwinters as eggs. Egg hatch coincides with bud burst. Larvae pass through four to six molts. Pupation occurs anytime from late July to the end of August inside a thin cocoon of silken webbing mixed with larval hairs. Adults appear from late July into November, depending on the location. The female moth emits a sex pheromone that attracts males. Damage—The first sign of attack appears in late spring as young larvae feed on current year’s foliage, causing it to shrivel and turn reddish brown. As larvae mature, they feed on older needles. Defoliation occurs first at tops of trees and outer branches and then, as the season progresses, on lower crowns and inner branches of the host tree. During a severe defoliation event, trees will appear as skeletons once the damaged needles have fallen off, and cocoons and egg masses will be visible year-round in the lower tree canopy. Damage from severe defoliation can lead to tree death or predispose trees to subsequent bark beetle attacks. Douglas-fir tussock moth can be one of the most damaging of western defoliators.
Management—Natural controls, including predators, parasitoids, and a nuclear polyhedrosis virus (NPV), keep the tussock moth populations low most of the time. The natural controls, especially the NPV, also act to bring populations back under control during an outbreak. Douglas-fir tussock moth populations seem to follow a cyclical outbreak pattern, with outbreaks occurring every 8-12 years and lasting for 2-4 years. If applied control is desired, there are registered insecticides that might be used to reduce outbreak populations. The NPV has been made into a biocontrol (under the name TM-Biocontrol) and has been used in areas where rare Lepidoptera co-occurs with the tussock moth. The microbial pesticide Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (B.t.k.) is not hazardous to most beneficial insects, birds, small mammals, and aquatic systems. However, B.t.k. results against the tussock moth have not been consistent. Other contact chemical insecticides are also available for tussock moth management. Tussockosis—Hairs on the tussock moth larvae can cause an allergic reaction in humans. The most common reaction is skin irritation. Rashes, watery eyes, and sneezing are common symptoms. Avoid handling the larvae, and wash after exposure.
Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:
Jim Borland 1946-2024
Yellow Wax Bells - Bold Heft in the Shade
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