Boxwood Blight

Boxwoods have been thought of as a virtually indestructible plant. We know about leaf minors, root rots, and nematodes and have found ways to deal with those pests. Now a new boxwood disease has arrived in NC; box blight. For more information and the link to the printable document on this disease go to Box Blight

We'll be keeping you posted on this disease as we know more about it!


For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

The State of Horticulture Programs

The State of Horticulture Programs

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

New Red Buds from NCSU

Visit Nursery Management's video on new Red Buds being grown by Hines Nursery. Most of these came from our own NCSU Red Bud breeding program led by Dr. Dennis Werner.


Nursery Management- Redbuds

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

New Organic Based Animal Repellents-

Check out this video on new NC produced, bio-friendly, repellents:



Caveat- We do not endorse this product nor can we vouch for its efficacy, but since it is the brain child of a former Master Gardener we wanted to share the video for your own interest and testing.

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Vermicompost and Disease Suppression

Watch this video to understand more about the possibilities of using vermicompost for disease suppression:



There's more to making sure that your soil is alive than you might have thought.

or more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Soil Testing Time!

It is the time of year to consider taking a soil test. The following video gives you some simple guidelines or you can share this with your clients.



I think the guy in this video may be a poor relative of mine. Seems that I have seen him somewhere a time or two.

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Pest News Update July 8, 2011

ORNAMENTALS AND TURF

From: Steve Frank, Extension Entomologist

Dogwood Twig Borer Oviposition

The last couple of weeks I have noticed flagging branch tips on the red twig dogwoods (Cornus sericea 'Baileyi') in front of my house. The damage was characterized by a cleanly girdled branch with a 1 cm oviposition scar just below. Gradually the tip goes from yellow to brown then falls off. Investigation and help from our excellent diagnostician revealed a large egg within each scar containing a round-headed borer larva. This was the dogwood twig borer. Adults have been active lately laying eggs in twigs. The larvae will overwinter within twigs then continue boring down the twig pith in spring killing the affected branch. This is not likely to be a big nursery pest but should be on the radar. It is much better to identify the flagging branches now and prune out the eggs than wait until spring when a whole branch or small tree will be affected.

If you follow me on Twitter, you know this already! Follow @OrnaPests on Twitter for timely updates on ornamental pest activity.


Western Flower Thrips in Greenhouses

Thrips are a constant problem for growers, not just a problem this week. Western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis, is the most important and damaging thrips of greenhouses and has been called the most damaging greenhouse pest in the world. This is true of greenhouse-grown food and ornamental crops. Nearly all floriculture crops are susceptible to thrips damage.

Western flower thrips reproduce rapidly and are difficult to manage because they live in the cracks and crevices of flower heads and foliage. Thus, they are difficult to contact with insecticides. Western flower thrips also develop insecticide resistance rapidly so it is important to emphasize chemical rotation and to have a resistance management plan.

Sanitation is also very important in managing thrips. Because thrips can feed and reproduce on hundreds of plant species weeds in and around a greenhouse, they have a constant supply even if the crop is sprayed. Western flower thrips pupate in soil, so cleaning up spilled potting soil and other debris can deny them a vital part of their lifecycle.

More information and chemical recommendations can be found in Ornamentals and Turf Insect Information Note at Note 72.


For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Pest News Update July 1 2011

ORNAMENTALS AND TURF

From: Steve Frank, Extension Entomologist

Fall Webworms Hatching

I found small nests of very young fall webworms, Hyphantria cunea, when I was hiking last weekend. Fall webworms feed on over 600 species of trees and shrubs. In North Carolina they are most often found on sourwood, persimmon and pecan. Fall webworms primarily cause cosmetic damage to shade trees because of the unsightly webs they form around the foliage on which they feed. Young caterpillars eat leaf surfaces so that only the tiny veins remain. This residue turns brown and collects in the web. Older caterpillars devour the entire leaf. Because they are most abundant in mid-late summer after the tree has had some time to store food, the weather is hot and rainfall less, a tree's life is rarely in danger. Fall webworms can be easily destroyed or disrupted by pulling down the webs and destroying he caterpillars if the webs are within reach of a stick or pole. This also exposes caterpillars to bird and wasp predation. Insecticides applications will not penetrate the tent so caterpillars can only be exposed by feeding on treated leaves near the nest. For additional information, see Ornamentals and Turf Insect Information at Note #46

Follow @OrnaPests on twitter for timely updates on ornamental pest activity.


Twospotted Spider Mites Abound!

The twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, thrives in hot, dry weather like we have had lately. I have found many spider mites in the landscape . . . even on my poor Solomon’s Seal! It is important to scout for twospotted spider mites now because they reproduce most rapidly in hot dry weather. Under these conditions they can mature from egg to reproducing adult in 5 days! Nursery crops are especially susceptible because they may be exposed to more sun than landscape plants and receive more pesticides. Twospotted spider mites feed on over 100 plant species, sucking the fluid out of leaf cells. This ‘stippling’ damage can rapidly cause entire plants to take on a bronzed appearance. Look on the underside of leaves on susceptible hosts or beat foliage on a white piece of paper to scout for spider mites. If you notice mites or their damage, a range of control options are available, the best of which are several new miticides that provide long residuals and efficacy against all mite life stages. Broad spectrum insecticides will make mite populations worse by killing natural enemies. For more information and product suggestions visit the newly revised Ornamental and Turf Insect Information at: Note # 25l.


From: Emily Meineke and Steve Frank, Department of Entomology

Scale Picnic Beetles, Cybocephalus nipponicus (Endrody-Younga)

Scale picnic beetle adults are active now in North Carolina! The scale picnic beetle provides prolonged control of armored scale, such as Euonymous and San Jose scale.

C. nipponicus is native to China and Korea and was introduced into the U.S. in the 1990s to control euonymous scale. The New Jersey Department of Agriculture started a rearing program in the mid-1990s, and since its release, C. nipponicus programs have expanded. Researchers are currently using populations to control elongate hemlock scale, a serious secondary pest of hemlock stands stressed by the hemlock wooly adelgid.

C. nipponicus eat scale as larvae and as adults. Adults live for months and can reproduce several times. Staggered generations provide year-round control, and, unlike other similar beetles, C. nipponicus can survive when prey populations are low. Larvae develop and feed under waxy covers that protect them from direct exposure to pesticides. These tiny beetles are comparatively expensive to purchase, and populations establish over multiple years. However, natural C. nipponicus populations are present throughout North Carolina and provide background control of many landscape scale species.


Assassin Bugs (Family: Reduviidae)

Assassin bugs are members of the diverse, predatory family Reduviidae. They use their long stylet to pierce and liquefy caterpillars, aphids, and other pests. Several of these beneficial species live in North Carolina, including but not limited to the lurid assassin bug (Zelus luridus), the colorful assassin (Rhiginia cruciata), the masked hunter (Reduvius personatus), and the wheelbug (Arilus cristatus). Some species of assassin bug nymphs look similar to herbivorous true bugs, such as the leaf-footed bugs, that use their stylets to suck plant juices. There is a rudimentary way to tell the difference between these groups as immature insects. Pestiferous bugs that eat plants tend to congregate, while assassin bugs hunt alone.

Assassin bugs like varied plant structure to hunt within, and also high humidity. To encourage their populations on the lawn or beside the garden, you can plant tall native grasses and flowers.


For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

WCHA Irrigation and Pesticide Credit Program

Consider registering for this program: Irrigation and Pesticide Credit Program This will be an opportunity to get 2 hours of credit in Irrigation and 2 hours of credits for Pesticide Applicators.

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Pest News for June 27th

ORNAMENTALS AND TURF

From: Christine Nalepa and Whitney Swink, Research Specialists, North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services

Hemlock Borers Collected by the Native Wasp Cerceris fumipennis in the North Carolina Mountains

The Beneficial Insects Laboratory of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services has been using the solitary wasp Cerceris fumipennis as a biosurveillance tool to monitor for the Emerald Ash Borer and other pest Buprestidae throughout the state Solitary Wasp. The wasps nest on the hard-packed sandy soil typical of baseball and softball diamonds. They forage for buprestid beetles in the canopy, bringing them back to the nest to feed their offspring. The pest survey consists of intercepting Cerceris females at the nest when they return from foraging trips, and collecting and identifying the beetles they carry.

In recent weeks Cerceris surveys in the mountains of the state indicate that the wasps are bringing in large numbers of hemlock borers (Melanophila fulvoguttata), a pest of eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), throughout its natural range. Hemlock borers are secondary pests that can reach significant levels in hosts weakened by hemlock woolly adelgids and other pests (see the June 11, 2010 issue of the North Carolina Pest News at Hemlock Borer).

The Cerceris surveys suggest that hemlock borers may be at or near outbreak levels in some locations of the North Carolina mountains. Melanophila fulvoguttata to date has been collected in seven sites, in the cities of Andrews, Asheville, Franklin, Murphy, and Bryson City. In the latter, 97% (57 of 59) of the beetles collected from the wasps were hemlock borers. Specimens have been deposited in the North Carolina State University Insect Museum.


From: Steve Bambara, Extension Entomologist

Where are the Green June Beetles?

We know that Mary had a little lamb, a little pork, a little jam. And she probably also had green June beetles. Expect to see them soon. They rarely do harm to landscape plants and do not harm people. They can be handled without fear. There are possible control measures available for larvae in turf and pasture (later in the season). I have rarely ever seen this justified in residential turf (unless your backyard used to be a pasture). Grubs are sometimes a problem in pastures and heavy manure-applied fields because they like the decaying organic matter. Adults are sometimes a problem in fruit trees and grapes. Adult populations should start to decline after two weeks and they should be gone after three to four weeks. Patience 25W* (a.i. time) is the best recommendation and can be applied without environmental concern. No, that's not a new pesticide, it's called waiting. For more information on green June beetles, see the following insect notes available on the web:

Green June Beetles
Green June Beetle Note

* Wait 25 days


Yellowjackets Building

Yellowjacket nests start from scratch each spring, as they do not reuse old nests. I've seen more yellowjackets out foraging recently. I've had one contact who reported disturbing a nest and being stung twice. If this episode had been a few weeks from now, I'm sure the number of stings would have been much greater. The nests are probably at their largest around the end of July. Wasps and yellow jackets are great predators of other flying insects and caterpillars.

Be aware of the potential for yellowjacket nests around shrubs and when mowing the lawn. Undisturbed "natural" areas in the landscape are good spots for them. They generally nest in the ground in loose-rooted areas at the base of shrubs and trees or below-ground rotted wood. Once-containerized plants that are now in the landscape often have voids where the media has degraded away. If the nest poses a stinging threat to humans or pets, control may be appropriate. Spray an aerosol hornet and wasp insecticide directly into the entrance hole at night. Don't use gasoline for a bunch of reasons! (Besides, it is too expensive.) Yellowjacket traps that are sold in stores (or homemade) have not been shown to be effective in North Carolina, though they make great conversation pieces in the yard.


Return of Oak Blotch Leafminers?

This week we received a report of an infestation of oak blotch leafminers in a Wake County neighborhood. The last outbreak I recall was about five years ago. Caterpillars of a small moth in the genus Cameraria mine in the leaves primarily of white oak (oak leaves with rounded lobes) leaving brown blotches. These blotches start small and may increase to the size of a dime or larger. There can be many blotches per leaf. There are several species of these moths that may attack oak leaves. Some of the caterpillars are gregarious and there may be several caterpillars in each blotch mine.

Now that the caterpillars are a bit larger, the mines are quite noticeable and the silvery blotches will begin to turn brown. A severe infestation can cause most of the leaf area to turn brown by mid-summer. Leaves may drop prematurely. Two or three generations could be possible per season.

Control by insecticides is not effective and not practical. Trees are not likely to be killed. These caterpillars are present every year, but it may be worse this year in some places. This insect overwinters as a larva in the leaf. Collecting and destroying fallen leaves may be a good idea this year. Oak trees often shed their leaves over a long period of time and may not drop them all until spring. If you are in an area surrounded by woods or neighbors with oak trees, there may be a plentiful supply of new caterpillars next year. Hopefully, the normally plentiful supply of parasitoid wasps will keep numbers lower.


Cicada Killer Wasps

The cicada killer wasps are beginning to emerge. Adult cicadas are caught and stung by this wasp, then dragged back to the nest. The most noticeable feature is often the large amount of soil excavated and mounded outside the burrow. Once in the nest, the female wasp lays her eggs on the cicada. Soon the egg hatches and the larva feeds on the cicada. When mature, the wasp larva pupates and another generation of wasps emerges to carry on the life cycle. This is one of our most "showy" wasps and the sight and sound of these coming and going is impressive. These wasps can be regarded as beneficial or neutral. They are also downright interesting. Ornamentals and Turf Insect Information Note No. 63 (see Cicada Killer Wasp) has additional information on the biology and control of cicada killer wasps, but I prefer the entertainment aspect of them.


For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Pest News Update

Invasive Pest Found on North Carolina Soybeans Spreading Rapidly

Kudzu bug (aka bean plataspid, Megacopta cribraria Fabricus) has recently been confirmed on kudzu from several North Carolina counties where it was not previously found. In addition, it has been reported on a legume from the North Carolina Arboretum, although this has not been confirmed. Soybean is the main agronomic host for this insect, but it will feed on many other legumes.

This insect was found on flowering volunteer soybean plants on 10 June in Union county by a Wingate University researcher, Erika Scocco, collecting kudzu bug for a molecular study. This is the first confirmed sighting of this insect on soybean in our state. In North Carolina, the pattern of spread is mirroring that of South Carolina in 2010. This insect feeds on the stems and leaves, and may come into our soybean fields earlier, rather than later, during the season.

So far, kudzu bug has been relatively easy to kill with insecticides (except with neonicotinoids), but will often reinvade. A preliminary economic threshold, based on Georgia data, is one bug per sweep with large nymphs present, or three bugs per plant with large nymphs present.

We are tracking this pest and would appreciate you contacting Dominic Reisig (electronic mail at dominic_reisig@ncsu.edu; telephone at 252-793-4428 x133) if you find this pest in a non-confirmed county. If you could also provide GPS coordinates, as well as the plant on which it was found, it would enhance our ability to respond to this new threat. Please use caution not to spread this pest from field to field if you find it.

Although this insect sounds like a possible beneficial pest- eating Kudzu; it has been found on other legumes including desirable ornamental plants. So keep your eyes open!


ORNAMENTALS AND TURF

From: Steve Bambara, Extension Entomologist

Lightning Bugs Are Looking Good

For the first time in several years, most of North Carolina has had a reasonable amount of rainfall in the spring. This year the lampyrids (lightning bugs) seem to be off to a good start. Lightning bugs are beetles. Fireflies are, coincidentally, also beetles! Lightning bug adults produce a heat-free source of light through a biochemical reaction. The light flashes are used to attract mates. Different species have different flash patterns and are active at different times during the evening. What does this have to do with pest management? One of the many great aspects of lightning bugs is that the larvae of some species are predatory on snails and slugs!


Citrus Whiteflies on Gardenia

The citrus whitefly is a tiny, frosty white insect about 2 mm in length. It is not a true fly. Females insert their eggs into the lower surface of the leaves of gardenia and Swedish ivy. Soon the immature stages hatch into scale-like insects that suck sap from the lower leaf surface. They are often mistakenly reported as a scale. Look for ant activity, honeydew, or sooty mold on these plants. There is additional information in Publication AG-136, Insect and Related Pests of Flowers and Foliage Plants available on the web at Whitefly.

Citrus whiteflies suck sap from the plant and excrete honeydew, a sweet, sticky substance. Sooty molds go hand-in-hand with infestations of citrus whitefly. Sooty molds grow in the honeydew and cause infested bushes to become dull and dark. Horticultural oils should give some control of the citrus whitefly. Orthene is also effective. Imidacloprid would also be an effective systemic as a root drench.


Cicadas, Act II

Periodical cicadas were a big hit this spring across most of North Carolina. It is now time for the annual cicada to make its appearance. Already spotted, are the larger green annual cicadas that appear every year in low numbers. By now, most of you are familiar with cicadas. Every summer the chunky brown nymphs crawl from under the ground and perform a transformation as dramatic as the change of a chrysalis to a butterfly. Though the individual life cycle may last several years for the annuals, the entire population does not emerge in synchrony as do their famous earlier periodical cousins. You should now be able to enjoy their daytime buzzing and still hear yourself think.


For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Heat Illness

The heat of summer has arrived early this year. A lot of concern is out there to prevent farmworkers and green industry personnel from becoming overwhelmed by the heat at becoming ill.
Remember a sick employee is not productive and could cost you thousands of dollars should they die or become disabled because of spending too much time working in the sun. Wendy Laing one of our Extension Specialist in Industrial Extension has this to share:

The heat and humidity of North Carolina summer is here. Three ingredients water, rest and shade - can be the best prevention steps to avoid a heat related illness. OSHA reports that each year thousands of workers suffer from heat related illnesses, including fatalities, that can be prevented.

Take the time now to educate your workforce about the hazards of working outdoors in hot weather and the simple tips to avoid heat related illnesses, including the simple steps below:

Drink Water Often

Rest in the Shade

Report Heat Symptoms Early

Know What To Do In Emergency

The following OSHA resource page provides numerous educational resources that you can download for your workforce. Thanks and have a safe summer!


Heat Illness





For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Pest News Update- May 16,2011

ORNAMENTALS AND TURF

From: Steve Bambara, Extension Entomologist

White Marked Tussock Moths

Last week we had a report of a minor outbreak of white marked tussock moths. This moth is widely distributed throughout eastern North America and rarely causes a major problem. The larvae feed on foliage of a wide variety of trees, both conifers and hardwoods.
This insect overwinters in the egg stage. Eggs hatch in the spring, usually late April to May. Young larvae skeletonize leaves and older larvae consume entire leaves. Pupation is 5 to 6 weeks later and moths emerge about two weeks following.

Larvae are hairy with red head and shield. The two long black pencils of hairs on the first thorax segment project forward. A single black hair pencil arises from the eighth abdominal segment. The back is mostly yellow, cream, or grayish in color. There are four distinct tufts of white hairs on the first four abdominal segments, and a conspicuous red dot on segments six and seven. Fully grown larvae construct loose tan-gray cocoons on the underside of branches or in bark crevices and pupate.

The male moth is gray with wavy lines across the front wings, about 25 to 30 mm. Antennae are conspicuously feathery. The female moth is wingless, grayish-white to light brown. Females lay eggs in clumps covered with scales and cocoon material. There are probably two generations and a possible third generation per year.

This caterpillar does not "sting", but the hairs can be irritating to skin or the throat of some animal that takes it for a meal.


Keys to Successful Fire Ant Baiting

* Buy fresh bait and only what you will use up within a short time.
* Do not store bait near other pesticides, fuels or products from which it will absorb odors.
* Do not apply it to wet grass or when rain is expected within 24 hours.
* Do not apply directly on top of a mound. Ants do not forage there.
* Do not disturb the mound. Ants that are rebuilding or defending a nest are not busy foraging.
* Do not apply bait when the temperatures are too hot or too cold. Perform the "potato chip test" before baiting. That is, in mid-morning before baiting, drop one or two potato chips near a mound. If ants are consuming the potato chips within 20 minutes, it is a good time to apply bait.


Magicicada Pictures

Reports of periodical cicada are still coming in. It is nice to see how widespread they are (that is, from the viewpoint of an entomologist). J. Reed of Cary, North Carolina wrote us and supplied images of cicadas located around her home. I love her description of the insects and hope she doesn't mind us sharing it.

"They are everywhere; they drop on me from the doors as I leave the house and they especially love the tires on my car. My yard is a landscape of holes. The noise is like listening to heavy traffic from the porch of SpongeBob’s pineapple house (underwater). They are starting to creep me out."



For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Job Openings

Givens Estate has announce 3 new job openings. If you know of someone looking for work please share the attached information with them.

To view the Job Vacancy Announcement go to: Job Announcement

Buncombe County Friends of Agriculture Breakfast

Are you a part of the agriculture community or a supporter of this great asset? If so consider joining other farmers at the second Friends of Agriculture Breakfast
Contact the Buncombe County Center to register.



For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Landscape Industry Certification Exam

There will be a Landscape Industry Certification Exam (previously referred to as CLT ) held in Graham NC on June 8th and 9th. If you have been previously certified and did not get a request to judge you might want to give Kakki Collins at NCNLA a call. The link above will get you to the registration form.
This is a great way to recognize the professional expertise you have in the landscape industry.

We hope to hold pre-testing classes next year but due to time constraints this year are going to forgo this.

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Pest News Update- May 2,2011

ORNAMENTALS AND TURF

From: Steve Bambara, Extension Entomologist

Oak Apple Galls Appealing

Oak-apple gall wasps form large spherical galls on the leaves or leaf petioles of various red, black and scarlet oaks. These galls are up to two inches in diameter, green tinged with red when fresh, and gradually turn brown.

Another common golf ball-sized gall on oak is the wool sower gall. Distinct and unusual fuzzy plant growth is induced by the secretions of the grubs of a tiny gall wasp, Callirhytis seminator. If a fresh wool sower gall is held in a plastic bag out of the sun (so it will not get too hot), within one to three weeks the tiny, harmless gall wasps will emerge. The wool sower gall is specific to white oak and only occurs in the spring. Pulling the gall apart exposes small seed-like structures. The gall wasp grubs develop inside these structures. (This gall is also called the oak seed gall.) Wool sower galls are not abundant and don't cause harm to white oaks. For more information on these galls, see Ornamentals and Turf Insect Note No. 5 at Oak-apple gall.


Predatory Stink Bug Euthyrhychus floridanus

Euthyrhynchus floridanus is not a pest stink bug, but one that feeds on other insects. It is very colorful, yet different in both adult and nymphal stages.

Normally we don't see this until later in the season, but we have had a report already this spring. This is one of the more attractive stink bug adults with three orange spots on a dark, metallic blue-black background. These insects overwinter as adults probably in some dry, sheltered location. Eggs are laid the following spring. The eggs hatch 19 to 33 days later. Nymphs of Euthyrhynchus floridanus take a long time to develop through five stages (40 to 67 days). New adult females wait 5 or 6 days before mating and the eggs are laid 23 to 67 days later. Total developmental time for this species is much longer than for plant-feeding stink bugs.

Nymphs are metallic blue-green with red and are highly aggregated. They even attack larger prey in concert. Apparently, aggregation behavior allows them to successfully attack prey too large to be subdued by a single nymph. Sometimes the adults aggregate with nymphs, although when times get hard these bugs sometimes feed on smaller individuals. When the bugs jab their prey with their proboscis, they inject a toxin that slowly immobilizes the prey. Euthyrhynchus floridanus bugs have an unusual wagging behavior in which the bug rocks its body from side to side while it grips the substrate firmly with its feet. This is thought to be a defensive behavior. Some other predaceous stink bugs feed on plant tissue when insect prey is not available. Plant feeding is not reported for Euthyrhynchus floridanus.


Predatory Ground Beetle Calosoma

Beetles in the genus Calosoma are called caterpillar hunters. They are among the largest in the Carabidae ground beetle family. Adults and larvae are active predators. Calosoma sycophanta is a large, metallic green beetle that was imported from Europe to New England for the biological control of the gypsy moth in 1905. The larva feeds day and night, consuming 50 caterpillars during its two-week developmental period. The adult will eat several hundred caterpillars during a life span of two to four years. There are also several native species of Calosoma. (from the Midwest Biocontrol News). We have had several reports of these insects already this spring.


Crane Flies

Periodically, the public will inquire about "those large mosquitoes." They are usually referring to crane flies. Crane fly larvae live in wet areas and can grow to be quite large. They are rarely a pest to anything. The adults are very fragile creatures and may be seen resting on the sides of a house or under an overhang. Occasionally, they make it into a house. They cannot bite and will usually die with 24 hours once inside. They can be gently relocated outdoors or ignored and swept up later. They are frequently missing appendages. For additional information, see the following web site:

Crane Fly



Eastern Juniper Bark Beetles

A sample of eastern red cedar (Juniperus) containing bark beetles was recently sent from Dare County. The eastern juniper bark beetle, Phloeosinus dentatus, usually attacks eastern red cedar, but it also infests arborvitae and even infests Leyland cypress. These small, blackish-colored beetles bore into the tree and then bore upward with the grain. Eggs are laid in short galleries that extend upward from the entrance hole. Infestations are usually found in cut, broken or fire damaged trees. The eastern juniper bark beetle also attacks red cedars infested with Heterobasion annosum fungus. Together, infested trees of all sizes succumb. The beetle/disease correlation is not clearly defined. Keeping trees in a healthy, unstressed condition should help. Protective bark sprays are less than highly effective against the beetles. For more information, see the following web sites:

Juniper Bark Beetle
Eastern Red Cedar


Springtime Fall Cankerworms in Cabarrus County

I'm a little late with this notice, but thought I'd still mention it. Fall cankerworms are small "inchworms" that hatch in the spring and are fond of young oak and maple foliage. Fall cankerworms have three prologs while spring cankerworms have only two at the end of the abdomen. Caterpillars emerge and consume foliage at some time in March and feed through April. The city of Charlotte has been the major center of this population since 1987, for unknown reasons. Cabarrus County also reported a small outbreak again this year. Durham County had a suspected report, too. Natural controls, which regulate outbreaks in uninhabited forests, have not been effective in reducing fall cankerworm populations in this urban environment. Charlotte has a large number of mature willow oaks that provide an almost unbroken canopy over much of the city.

Control strategies for fall cankerworms involve mostly trunk banding for flightless female moth trapping in November through December as flightless female moths crawl up the tree. Pesticide sprays in the spring with B.t. or other foliage protectors can be used, but are expensive on large trees. See Cankerworms on the web for additional information.


Azalea Bark Scales

An infestation of azalea bark scales was recently reported from Wilson County. Heavily infested plants may appear chlorotic and unthrifty. The bushes are often covered with sooty mold, a black fungus that grows in the honeydew excreted by the azalea bark scales as they feed. Eventually twigs may die back. Adult females and eggs are protected inside the egg sac from most pesticides. The key to control is treatment in late spring and late fall when the nymphs are present. Horticultural oil sprays should work while crawlers are present, which is about now. Retreatment may be necessary. Orthene is another choice. Imidacloprid as a soil drench at the base of the plant should be effective. This may also occur on rhododendron. For more information, see the following web sites:

Note 134
Azalea Bark Scale

Seedcorn Maggot Flies – Dead, But Still Alive

This week we have received several reports about dead flies on branches. It is an unusual sight and may cause undue concern to gardeners. These flies are adults of seedcorn maggot (Delia platura), which is sometimes a pest of agriculture. Seedcorn maggot flies are grayish-brown in color and about one-fifth of an inch in length. The legs are black and there are bristles scattered on the body. Some seedcorn maggot flies become infected with a live fungus of the genus Entomophthora. Infected flies are swollen and have pinkish bands on the abdomen. Sometimes, gray Entomophthora spores are visible on the fly and on the substrate nearby. This fungus apparently causes the flies to land on protruding objects such as any twigs, clotheslines, and fence posts. The flies cling there and usually die in the afternoon as their abdomens swell with fungal strands inside.

Early the next morning, the fungal spores are released into the air while the humidity is high. The spores infest other seedcorn maggots. Although the fungus-infected flies appear to be damaging the plant, these adult flies are harmless. The seedcorn maggot is found throughout North Carolina. Seedcorn maggots feed primarily on decaying organic matter, but sometimes infest the seeds and seedlings of berries or vegetables. The dead, fungus-infected flies are sometime abundant on the dead twigs of dogwood and crape myrtle in the spring. For more information, see Ornamentals and Turf Insect Note No. 20 on the Internet at Seedcorn Maggots.


From: Steven Frank, Extension Entomologist

Lecanium Scales on Oaks

Oak lecanium scale is one of the largest soft scales in our area. Scales are brown and rounded reaching 6 mm in diameter. As soft scales, lecanium scales produce honeydew that can cause sooty mold on oaks or plants below. It primarily infests oaks trees. Large populations can reduce growth and vitality especially in newly planted trees.

Eggs are present now under adult scale covers indicating crawlers will emerge in the next week or so or may be emerging now in your area. The crawler stage should be targeted for best efficacy. On trees small enough to treat the foliage, horticultural oil can be used. On larger trees, a systemic insecticide such as dinotefuran can be applied as a drench or trunk spray. This scale is not easily eradicated and optimal control measures are still unclear. It is attacked by many parasitoids and predators that can reduce scale abundance if protected from insecticides. For more information, see the following web site: Lecanium Scale


Juniper Scale Crawlers are Active

The juniper scale, Carulaspis juniper, attacks some of the most commonly used plants in ornamental landscapes, including all juniper species but also cypress species and false cypress. There is one generation per year in which females fill up their armored cover with eggs in spring from which crawlers hatch and look for new feeding sites. Infestations can lead to foliage that becomes yellow or brown and generally less lustrous than normal. Large infestations can cause the tips of branches to die and the plant to become sparsely foliated. Isolated infestations can be pruned off of plants. Natural enemies will often keep scale below damaging thresholds. However, in environments where natural enemies are not abundant control may be necessary. Horticultural oil will smother crawlers. Other chemicals such as dinotefuran (Safari), acetamiprid (TriStar), pyroproxifen (Distance) and others can be used to manage infestations. More information on armored scale management can be found at: Armored Scale


For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Boring Times are Upon Us

ORNAMENTALS AND TURF

From: Steven Frank, Extension Entomologist

Boring Times are Upon Us

A number of clearwing borers are active that can damage ornamental trees and shrubs. This week we captured over a hundred lesser peach tree borers in a single trap. The lesser peachtree borer, Synanthedon pictipes LPTB, is primarily a pest of peach and cherry trees including ornamental cherry. We also caught a lot of dogwood borers, Synanthedon scitula. Dogwood borers have a wide host range that includes dogwood (Cornus florida), but also cherry and apple. In both species adults emerge from tree trunks in spring (now!) and lay eggs on the bark of host trees. Larvae hatch and bore through bark and into trees. Existing bark damage is a preferred oviposition site. The primary means of prevention for susceptible trees is maintaining healthy trees and protecting trees from mechanical damage to bark. In addition, a contact insecticide such as permethrin can be sprayed on tree bark to deter oviposition and successful entry by larvae.

Traps in WNC are also being monitored- an update will be available soon.


For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Growin' in the Mountains

Growing in the Mountains is going on today and tomorrow as are several other plant sales events. Just came back from the show with several new plants for my own garden. Got to visit with several of my small growers and meet a few old friends that I had not seen in some time. The mood was very upbeat, sales brisk, and vendors very happy. If you are in the Asheville area today and tomorrow you should drop by the Farmer's Market and make some plant purchases. It will get you into the gardening mood- in spite of the rain.

Would like to take the opportunity to thank nurseryman and sustainability guru, Chuck Marsh from Useful Plants Nursery, in Black Mt for his comments about calling elected official to encourage them to keep funding Cooperative Extension. His calls were fruitful and the office of Mr. Tom Apodoca went the extra mile to let him know that his vote would be in support of NC Cooperative Extension and our efforts to provide the information needed by our growers to stay in business during these lean times. Thanks to both Chuck Marsh and to Senator Apodoca.
In case you are not familiar with Useful Plants Nursery, they are located off Highway 9 near Black Mountain. They are probably the only nursery in this area that focuses almost exclusively on fruiting plants.


For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Ornamental Pest News for April 15th

The pests mentioned in this blog may be a little later here in Western NC but be on the lookout!
Read carefully.

ORNAMENTALS AND TURF

From: Steve Bambara, Extension Entomologist

Early Spring Insects

Just to catch you up over the past few weeks, you've probably already noticed the ground nesting bees. Some of the early species are andrenids, but other species will be popping up through the spring. These can upset home owners, but they are not a sting threat. For more information, see Ornamentals and Turf Insect Note No. 100 at http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/notes/O&T/lawn/note100/note100.html.

Carpenter bees are very active. Males are marking off territory and looking for females. These bees are good pollinators. They can be very distracting if boring into your porch or deck. It’s time to practice your tennis serve. For more information, see Residential, Structural and Community Pests Insect Note No. 4 at http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/notes/Urban/carpenterbees.htm.

Tent caterpillars seem late, but the temperatures have been up and down. These hairy caterpillars web the crotches of cherry trees and crabapples, primarily. For more information, see Ornamentals and Turf Insect Note No. 62 at http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/notes/O&T/trees/note61/note61.html.


Minute Cypress Scales

The minute cypress scale may be tiny in size, but it can be a headache if you're trying to grow Leyland Cypress. It may also infest other hosts such as arborvitae, juniper and similar evergreens. The minute cypress scale, Carulaspis minima, is a small armored scale with a circular to oval cover (Fig. 13). It has a brown papery appearance with a yellow center. The scales can be found on needles and bark, where they cause yellowing and dieback. This scale overwinters on the needles, and the crawlers hatch in late spring. A recently received specimen at the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic at North Carolina State University (http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/plantpath/extension/clinic/) showed eggs still not hatched, so there is a little time in most regions before the crawler stage. For additional information on insect pests of the Leyland Cypress, see Ornamentals and Turf Insect Note No. 133 on the web at
http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/notes/O&T/specificplants/note133/note133.html.


From: Steven Frank, Extension Entomologist

Boxwood Leafminers are Active!

The boxwood leafminer is the most commonly reported pest of boxwoods in North Carolina. Accidentally introduced from Europe, this small fly seems to prefer American boxwood, although English and Japanese boxwoods are also susceptible. Boxwoods infested with this leafminer develop blisters on the lower leaf surface. Infested leaves are usually smaller, off-color and drop sooner than healthy leaves. Heavily infested boxwoods usually have sparse foliage and poor color.

Adult leafminers are active right now. The flies can be found hovering around boxwoods looking for places to lay eggs. A number of insecticides can be used to prevent the flies from landing and laying eggs or to kill the maggots that mine the leaves and cause damage. More information can be found at http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/notes/O&T/shrubs/ort016e/ort016e.htm.
Ornamental Pest Alerts on Twitter

I am offering a new pest alert system this year via Twitter. Twitter is a social networking service that allows short messages to be sent to anyone who signs up to receive them. The advantage of Twitter over electronic mail for this purpose is that Tweets arrive on grower smart phones or cell phones while they are in the field working rather than on their office desk in the evening.

I am monitoring landscape and nursery pest activity by degree day calculations and scouting, then “tweet” when I find that pests are active or will soon be active. My Twitter name is @OrnaPests. Sign up for Twitter (super easy) then choose to follow @OrnaPests to receive these valuable alerts.



For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

North Carolina Agriculture Needs Your Help

North Carolina Agriculture Needs Your Help!

N.C. Cooperative Extension Service (NCCES), N.C. Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service (NCDA & CS) budgets maybe cut drastically, this week! The State Budget, including the Higher Education Budget will be considered early next week. The Higher Education Budget is where the College’s Agricultural Programs, which include NCCES and ARS budgets reside. Potential state cuts may result in a 25-30% budget reduction to these programs. For NCCES these reductions would result in the loss of over $13 million and 300-400 positions. Similar cuts face research.

Agriculture is the #1 industry in N.C., providing $74.3 billion and 688,000 jobs to our state. The NCCES, NCDA&CS and the ARS programs support agriculture in N.C. everyday through current research and cutting-edge technology, services that maximize on-farm efficiency and education. On average, it costs N.C. consumers only 2 cents per day to conduct these programs that contribute to the success of not only local farmers, but local communities. Needless to say, a 25-30% budget reduction would be devastate the ability of these programs to meet the current and future needs of the citizens of N.C.

The NCCES partners with communities to deliver research-based education and technology that enrich the lives, land and economy of North Carolinians. NCCES delivers programming in 4-H Youth Development, Family and Consumer Sciences, Natural Resources and Agriculture. The accomplishments and impacts of NCCES include:
Assisting in the creation of the school lunch program in rural communities and library system (Family and Consumer Sciences)
In 2011, the construction of the WNC Regional Livestock Center was completed. In its first sale over 1,200 head of livestock were sold accounting of $1 million, all staying in the local economy. (Agriculture).

The following are “talking points” you can use to discuss with your N.C. Representative and Senator.

1. N.C. ranks 3rd nationally in agriculture representing 8 major commodities.

2. N.C. has one of the best extension service and research programs in the country. A recent study showed that the productivity of N.C. agriculture has gained more that 2% per year since 1960. This increase is directly related to the state’s investment in research and extension.

3. In 2010 NCCES reported over 5.8 million contacts.

4. The primary research, extension, marketing and development organizations supporting agriculture are not only effective, but frugal. NCCES and the Research budget account for only 0.23% and 0.30% of the General Fund, respectively. Combining this with the NCDA & CS (0.31%) and NCA&T SU budgets, the total budget for these programs this equals to only 1% of the General Fund!

5. Agricultural research helps families save money. Agricultural productivity is largely responsible for the fact that the percentage of U.S. household income spent on food has decreased 22.3 to 9.5% at the same time that total food consumption increased.

6. For every $1 invested in public agricultural research $32 is returned back to society!

7. 4-H is one of the Nation’s premier youth development programs. Compared to their peers, youth engaged in 4-H stay in school longer, have higher graduation rates and college attendance and graduation, smoke less, have significantly lower rates of criminal conduct and arrests, and are more involved in their communities..

Everyone has your own personal story about how these programs have impacted your life. NOW is the time to share your story with your N.C. Representative and N.C. Senator. Handwritten notes and phone calls are the most effective means of reaching these individuals.

If you have written you elected officials or plan to do so please let us know so we can keep a record of our supporters. Thank you letters directed to agents and carbon copied to our administrators and elected officials go a long way in keeping up the morale of all of our staff during times of uncertainty like we are currently facing.

We realize that all of you are also facing economic hardships and having the pain of laying off good employees. Hopefully, by keeping relevant programs we can help each other through this crisis.

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Talk with an Expert Series- Business Planning

Most Green Industry Businesses are experiencing stagnant sales and business growth. As part of the Transylvania Business Resource Partners we are cosponsoring "Talk with an Expert Series" to help grow your business in 2011, at no charge to your business due to sponsor support.

Talk with an Expert Series

Branding
Topic: Reach more new customers with less marketing dollars.
Day: Thursday April 7th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Branding

Topic: Increase sales with right marketing strategy and materials with less marketing dollars.
Day: Thursday April 14th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Marketing

Web Marketing
Topic: Improve your website to reach more new customers and increase company sales
Day: Thursday April 28th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Web Marketing

Social Media
Topic: Connect with more new customers and existing customer to increase sales
Day: Thursday May 5th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link:Social Media

Bookkeeping
Topic: Bookkeeping that will help improve your business and cashflow
Day: Thursday May 12th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Bookkeeping

Capital
Topic: Finding money to open or expand your business in 2011
Day: Thursday May 19th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Finding Money

Accountant
Topic: Learn how to lower your 2011 taxes
Day: Thursday May 26th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link:Tax Accountant

Attorney
Topic: 2011 Business Legal Check-up
Day: Thursday June 2nd
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Legal Checkup

Sales and Customer Service
Topic: Learn how to increase new sales and repeat customer sales
Day: Thursday June 9th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Customer Service

Global Sales
Topic: Learn how increase sales and attract customers outside of Transylvania County
Day: Thursday June 16th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Global Sales

Human Resources
Topic: Learn how to attract, manage and retain good employees that increase company sales
Day: Thursday June 23rd
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Human Resources

Investments
Topic: Learn how to take use the tax laws to lower your taxes and save money for retirement
Day: Thursday June 30th
Time: 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Location: Blue Ridge Community College Transylvania County Campus in Brevard
Room: Applied Technology Building Room 206
Registration Link: Investments


Sponsors: Transylvania Business Resource Partners include: Blue Ridge Community College Small Business Center, Blue Ridge Innovation Network, Brevard College, Mountain Bizworks, NC Cooperative Extension Service, Senior Resource Network, Transylvania County Economic Development and United Way.



For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Granulate Ambrosia Beetle Alert

This is the first alert from the Granulate Ambrosia Beetle Monitoring and
Alert program.

Granulate ambrosia beetles were captured in Pitt Co. which is in the
eastern, warmer part of the state zone 8A or 7B. Growers in this area
should begin protecting susceptible trees with preventative applications
of a pyrethroid insecticide.

Growers in colder regions 7B, 6A, and 6B may have weeks before beetles
emerge and do not have to begin preventative applications at this time.
Other alerts will be sent when beetles emerge in these areas.

Recommendations: A landscape borer spray containing a pyrethroid such as
permethrin or bifenthrin can be used and may have to be reapplied every
three weeks while beetles are active.

Astro, Permethrin Pro (permethrins), and Onyx (bifenthrin) are registered
for use on tree trunks in the landscape.

For nursery sites Perm-Up (permethrin) is labeled for field grown nursery
stock. OnyxPro (bifenthrin) is labeled for application to tree trunks in
landscape and nursery sites.

Generic equivalents to the above products are also acceptable.

More details can be found at Granulate Ambrosia Beetle


If you have other questions DO NOT reply to this email. Contact me at
sdfrank@ncsu.edu

Steve



For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Rain Garden Certification Training

RG 201: Residential Rain Garden Certification for Professionals
Formally entitled “Rain Garden Certification Workshop” (1.5 day workshop)
Training Dates/Locations:
Asheville, NC - March 17-18, 2011
Chapel Hill, NC - March 24-25
Oak Ridge, NC - April 26-27, 2011
About the workshop: As homeowners and property managers become more aware of the issues of stormwater management many of them are choosing to manage the runoff from their homes and businesses with rain gardens. Rain gardens are shallow depression landscape features that can effectively collect and treat stormwater and reduce localized flooding. Rain gardens can be integrated into the existing landscape as a retrofit or be included in the initial landscaping plan. To effectively manage stormwater, rain gardens must be accurately sized and properly constructed. This workshop will present a simple method for sizing and designing rain gardens and detail proper construction techniques. Participants will design and install a rain garden as part of the training. As a result of this training participants will:
· Understand why stormwater needs to be managed,
· Understand the principles of rain garden location, design, construction and maintenance,
· Be able to select appropriate vegetation,
· Tour several local rain gardens, and
· Be eligible to take a test at the conclusion of the training to be certified in rain garden design and construction
These workshops are sponsored by NC State University Dept. of Biological & Agricultural Engineering and NC Cooperative Extension. The certification is awarded by NC State University Cooperative Extension. For RG 201 only, 8 C.E.U.s are approved by the NC Board of Landscape Architects.
For more information and to REGISTER ONLINE, please go to: Rain Garden Training
For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Sharing New Blog

If you scroll down the right hand side of this Blog, you'll see that we are constantly adding new blogs that we enjoy or feel would be of interest and value to you. The latest of these comes from our own NCSU Plant Disease and Insect Clinic. This new blog has been created and managed by a Graduate Student in the Plant Pathology Program and offers some insight to both commercial folk and home gardeners. I think you will enjoy it and possibly subscribe to it directly.
Here's the link: NCSUPDIC Blog

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Does Your Forest Talk Money

Do you have forestland that may be suitable for some kind of alternative crop? If so then this workshop might have some interest to you. Visit the link below and click on "more information" to get a copy of the registration materials and agenda.

Woodland Products Workshop

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Employees Wanted

Looking for employment or know someone that is? Snow Creek Landscaping is a proactive local landscaping firm with a mission for sustainability. They are looking for some good people to join their staff. If one of these jobs is something that fits your qualifications then visit their website Snow Creek Employment for an on-line application.

Gardeners
Snow Creek Landscaping seeks experienced gardeners who enjoy being creative and helping nature through their knowledge of gardening techniques, IPM principles, plant identification, and will welcome physical outdoor work.

Reactive Crew Leaders
Snow Creek is seeking an individual to coordinate small projects that would include rock work, plant installation, pruning and irrigation. Ability to organize and multi-task. Clean driving record required.

Landscape Crew Leaders
Snow Creek is seeking experienced Crew Leaders. Knowledge of rock work, plant installation, irrigation, and equipment experience needed. Bi-lingual a plus. Clean driving record required.

Mow Crew Leaders
Snow Creek is seeking an experienced individual to run a Mow Crew. Ability to multi-task, attention to detail and a leader. Ability to run various mowers and small equipment. Bi-lingual a plus. Clean driving record required.


For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Job Opening

This is the first time in several months that I have had a request to post a job opening. However,
Kelly Laughter, Fletcher Grading Contractors has indicated that they have an opening for a andscape Maintenance Foreman with a firm knowledge of plant material and turf. This company has s
few private developments and need someone to supervise the crews on shrub/tree and turf maintenance. Both experience and professionalism is required. If you are looking for a job or have a former employee that you feel has the qualifications and can recommend them, please let Kelly know at: 654-7777 x-111 office, 273-7744 cell- or by e-mail: kelly@fletchergrading.com

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

New Green Industry Video Posted

Check out the new video posted on the NC Green Industry Council website:
NC Green Industry Council
The video features a lot of what is going on across NC in our industry and features several of the green industry businesses that we all recognized. Many from right here in Western NC. I hope you will share it with your customers to increase their awareness of what our industry is doing.
The video also mentions several of the certifications, licenses, or registrations that many of you have already acquired. We are continuing to offer classes to prepare any of you that wish to obtain any of these certifications as well as CEUs for those needing them. So keep in tuned.

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Business Side of Agritourism

Looking for a different way to make your farm or nursery make money? Consider attending this class:
Business Side of Agritourism

It could be that Agritourism is the market niche you should consider.

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Nursery Management Workshop

Happy New Year!
For those of you waiting to see what the new year would bring. Here's the first of many programs being offered for the green industry in Western NC. Nursery Management Workshop This class will start your year off with 3 hours of pesticide credits and loads of information about scouting principles.

For more information contact your local Cooperative Extension Center and ask for the Commercial Horticulture Agent.