(Pictured L-R: 2026 PLNA judges Pat Joyce, Katie Dubow, and Larry Shehan)

Congratulations to the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) for a successful, awe-inspiring 2026 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show! PLNA was thrilled for another opportunity to judge the show exhibits and award PLNA trophies for best use of plants and best design in the Landscape and Educational display categories.

Before the 2026 show opened to the public, PLNA board members Katie Dubow of Garden Media Group, Pat Joyce of Longwood Gardens, and Larry Shehan of Michell’s had a sneak peak of the displays and awarded Irwin Landscaping, Inc. with the PLNA landscape display trophy and Temple University Department of Landscape and Horticulture with the PLNA education display trophy. 

Thank you to the PLNA judges, and congratulations to Irwin Landscaping and the Temple students, and all Flower Show staff, volunteers, and designers. Learn more about the 2026 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show and all award recipients.

HARRISBURG, PA - The Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association proudly announces the release of the newly updated Pennsylvania Certified Horticulturist (PCH) Manual, a modern training resource designed to strengthen the state’s green workforce and support the professionals who grow, care for, and steward Pennsylvania’s landscapes. This marks the first comprehensive update in more than a decade, reflecting the industry’s rapid evolution—from new technologies and emerging plant health challenges to shifting workforce needs and rising expectations from employers and customers.

The revised manual features clearer organization, refreshed content, expanded visuals, and updated best practices across core horticultural disciplines. Designed as a turnkey training and onboarding tool for garden centers, landscape firms, and growers, it helps standardize foundational knowledge, build stronger teams, and elevate the professionalism that customers expect from Pennsylvania’s green industry. Students and professionals will find the manual more intuitive and practical, with improved explanations, real-world examples, and enhanced study tools that support both immediate job readiness and long-term career growth.

PLNA encourages industry partners to integrate the new manual into staff training, promote PCH certification within their organizations, and consider participating in PLNA committees to help shape future enhancements.

Learn more about the PCH program and certification pathways.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Katharine “Kay” (Mackenzie) Wells, by his sisters Barbara Sykas (Wells) and Priscilla VanDerlyn Wells Ridout Lane Petty and his cherished grandchildren, Evan William Hawes and Rory Mackenzie Wholey Wells.

A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served during the Korean War, Bill used the G.I. Bill to pursue his passion for horticulture. He graduated from the State University of New York at Farmingdale with a degree in Ornamental Horticulture and Landscape Design, earning Dean’s List honors and serving as Student Body President — all while working and raising a young family.

Bill's professional career was defined by entrepreneurship and expertise. He honed his skills at Styer's Nursery in Concordville, PA, rising to Vice President/Manager before founding his own highly successful business, W. D. Wells & Associates, Inc., in 1974. The landscape design/build firm and its companion, Water Crest Farms Nursery, became a family enterprise in West Grove, PA. In 1991 Bill joined Carlton Plants of McMinville, OR as a regional sales representative serving the Mid-Atlantic for many years.

His influence extended far beyond his own company. Bill was a towering figure in the horticultural world, serving as National President of the American Conifer Society (1987-88) and holding numerous leadership roles with the Pennsylvania Landscape and Nursery Association (PLNA), including Chairman and a place in their Hall of Fame (2006). Bill served for many years as a board member, including being president, of the Horticultural Research Institute, which is affiliated with the American Nursery & Landscape Association (ANLA). He was a trusted advisor, serving on the horticultural advisory boards for Longwood Gardens, Penn College, and Williamson Trade School. For many years, he shared his knowledge as the host of the “Better Gardening” radio program and as a teacher at several institutions.

Bill’s commitment to service was equally profound. He was a dedicated Rotarian for over 50 years, serving as President of both the Kennett Square and West Grove clubs and being named a Paul Harris Fellow. His civic contributions were extensive, including roles as a Pocopson Township Supervisor, Chairman of the West Chester Regional Planning Commission, and Chairman of the Penn Township Planning Commission. A lifelong member of the Boy Scouts of America, he was one of 17 scouts nationwide to report to President Harry S. Truman in 1951 and later served as a Scout Master.

Bill was a family man as much as a nursery man. He loved spending time sailing, traveling, and collecting treasures along his travels. When at home, he most enjoyed mowing the nursery (and getting stuck in tree holes a few too many times chasing that last spot of grass), spending time with his grandchildren, and playing a hand of gin rummy with Kay.
He is survived by his children: Katharine E. Hawes (Todd), William H. Wells (Rosalie), Thomas M. Wells (Jean), and David V. Wells (Heather Wholey); his beloved grandchildren: Katharine Hart (Hawes); Alejandro Wells, Nicole Wells, and Julia Ryan (Wells); Carolyn Wells and Alison Hartt (Wells); and Cassidy Wells; and his great-grandchildren: Kaden (son of Evan) and Kitt (daughter of Katharine); Jack and Tilly (children of Alex); Lili (daughter of Nicole); Hazel and Phoebe (daughters of Julia); and Joseph and Samuel (sons of Alison).He also leaves behind countless friends, colleagues, and mentees whose lives he touched.

A celebration of Bill's life TBA. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to ASPCA or Canine Partners for Life.

Born on April 11, 1934, in York, Glenn was a dedicated husband, father, and a pillar of the local landscaping community.

For 42 years, Glenn owned and operated Hively Landscapes, formerly Hively Farm & Nursery, leaving a living legacy throughout York County and its surroundings. He took great pride in beautifying the area, famously noting the many trees he and his trusted workers planted. Known for his hardworking spirit, Glenn never shied away from a challenge – no job was too big or over the top. In his early years, he also farmed cattle and pigs, further demonstrating his commitment to hard work.

Learn More

Tom was a graduate of Fox Chapel Area High School and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He was founding brother of Eichenlaub Landscape Contractors, where he worked for over 50 years. There he helped to grow the company from a simple mowing operation into a business that performed complicated construction projects, many of which required his talented expertise. However, his impact on the community was most felt through his volunteerism. 

Tom will be missed by all those whose lives he touched.

Learn More

About “Lab to Landscape” by University of Delaware

Lab to Landscape tells the untold story of plant development, taking visitors on a journey from the sterile precision of a lab to the thriving beauty of a finished landscape. The design seamlessly transitions through each stage—starting with genetic selection in the lab, moving to propagation in the greenhouse, and then to the trial gardens, where plants are tested under real conditions. This progression highlights the meticulous process behind cultivating new and improved plant varieties that shape the future of horticulture.

The final landscape portion is a stunning culmination of this journey, impeccably designed and densely planted to showcase the potential of these innovations. Its beauty and composition are so well executed that it could stand alongside the main exhibits. Lab to Landscape not only educates but also inspires, demonstrating how science and nature work hand in hand to bring new plant life to our world.

About “Tomorrow’s Eden” by Ishihara Kazuyuki x Treeline Designz

A landscape where nature reclaims its place, Tomorrow’s Eden reflects resilience, renewal, and balance. Winding paths lead through towering pines, exposed roots, and lush mosses, blending dense growth with open, reflective spaces. A mist-shrouded water feature adds an ethereal touch, inviting contemplation.

This immersive garden highlights nature’s strength amid climate challenges, urging us to preserve its delicate balance. A testament to endurance and transformation, Tomorrow’s Eden reminds us that even in adversity, life finds a way to flourish.

About the Flower Show

The PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is the nation’s largest and longest-running horticultural event and fundraiser featuring stunning displays by the world’s premier floral, garden, and landscape designers. The 2025 show runs March 1-9.

Special thanks to PLNA’s 2025 judges, pictured L-R, Tim Kilgore (McHutchison); Katie Dubow (Garden Media Group); and Maddie Maynor (BioWorks, Inc.).

PLNA members, guests, students, and professionals gathered on February 5 and 6 in bucolic Lancaster, Pennsylvania for the 2025 PLNA Annual Conference. Despite winter weather, the conference offered an invigorating opportunity to learn, connect, and prepare for Spring. The event marked PLNA’s second annual conference following the organization’s 120th-anniversary celebration, and it proved to be another resounding success. Attendees connected with friends and colleagues, engaged with exhibitors in the bustling expo hall, and expanded their expertise through educational sessions.

The conference opened with compelling keynote presentations, including Ed Hansen of EXT.tech, who shared strategies for fostering positivity in the workplace, and David McKinney from the Iowa Arboretum, who emphasized the significance of naturalistic landscapes. The following sessions continued with a range of topics, from the use of native plants and emerging industry trends to strategies for protecting landscapes against invasive species.

Additionally, the 2025 conference introduced an exciting new element—an expanded expo hall featuring industry leaders. Companies from across the region showcased cutting-edge products and services, providing attendees with valuable resources to enhance their work, and of course—plants!

We were pleased to honor the following individuals during the Awards Luncheon:

• The 2025 Green Achiever Award was given to Arden Pontasch
• The 2025 Exceptional Leadership Award was given to Paul Kimicata
• The 2025 PLNA Hall of Fame Award was given to Andy Ernst
• The 2025 Fredrick J. Mummert Distinguished Service Award was given to William D. Wells, Sr.

Congratulations to all our recipients! Thank you for being pillars of our community.

As the conference adjourned, it was evident that the event proved to be more than just an annual gathering—it is a cornerstone of the horticulture community, fostering connections, promoting excellence, and strengthening the industry. With its perfect balance of education, networking, and hands-on experiences, the 2025 PLNA Annual Conference set the stage for a bright future for PLNA and its members.

Thank you, again, to all of the speakers, sponsors, award recipients, and attendees who helped make the conference a success. PLNA is strong and successful because of all of you.

The tradition continues! Mark your calendars now and plan to attend the 2026 PLNA Annual Conference February 4-5, 2026 in Gettysburg, PA! Watch e-News, the website, and PLNA’s social media for updates.

The proclamation text reads: 

"It is my pleasure to join Secretary Redding and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture in celebrating the Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association's 120th anniversary.

Pennsylvanians benefit daily from the work of landscapers and the availability of quality horticultural products throughout the variety of garden centers, greenhouses, and wholesale nurseries within our state. This organization has led our Commonwealth through a significant portion of our history in creating healthy, equitable, safe, and resilient outdoor living environments while improving our health, economies, and interpersonal connections. Gatherings such as these remind us that the protection and enjoyment of our rich environments is a multigenerational priority, and I wish to extend my gratitude to the Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association for ensuring the advancement of this work.
Through its advocacy, education, and provision of programs and services, I am confident that this organization will continue to foster the economic, social, and natural environments throughout our state with great distinction for many years to come.

On behalf of all Pennsylvanians, I am honored to recognize your dedication to our Commonwealth. Please accept my best wishes for a memorable anniversary and continued success. GIVEN under my hand and the Seal of the Governor, at the City of Harrisburg, this
twenty-first day of February two thousand twenty-four, the year of the Commonwealth
the two hundred forty-eighth."

Fostering the trailblazers of the green industry means we provide opportunities to constantly adapt and learn. Our days commenced with industry titans, Jeffrey Scott from Jeffrey Scott consulting, and Donald Pell of Donald Pell Gardens, presenting their keynote sessions. From there, attendees planned their day around sessions that deepen their understanding of horticulture. Experts shared insights on topics ranging from landscape design and plant propagation to sustainable gardening practices and pest management. It was a dynamic exchange of ideas and innovation, highlighting the professional development PLNA is known for.

During lunch, we highlighted the achievements within our community. PLNA presented awards honoring individuals that have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and stewardship in the industry. From visionary landscape designers to dedicated advocacy professionals, the awardees embodied the spirit of excellence that defines PLNA's mission.

We were honored to welcome the Secretary of Agriculture, Russell Redding, to our prestigious event. Redding stated, “The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is grateful for the partnership we share with PLNA as they help us realize a green Pennsylvania…Congratulations on 120 years of keeping our Commonwealth green and healthy, and for supporting agriculture.”

After speaking at our awards luncheon, he produced a proclamation from Governor Josh Shapiro, who also weighed in on his appreciation for PLNA’s impact. “This organization has led our Commonwealth through a significant portion of our history in creating our healthy, equitable, safe, and resilient outdoor living environments while improving our health, economies, and interpersonal connections…I wish to extend my gratitude to the Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association for ensuring the advancement of this work.”

The 120th anniversary celebration of the Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association at Longwood Gardens was not just a commemoration of the past but a celebration of the future. It was a testament to the passion, dedication, and vision of all those who have contributed to PLNA's legacy, and a reminder of the profound impact that horticulture currently has on our lives. The legacy of PLNA lives on through not only the members that have pathed the way, but those who they have passed the torch to. We are inspired by the individuals who participated and commemorated this occasion with us. Thank you to our members for your devotion to our industry. As we trek forward, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment.

Learn About Our 2024 PLNA Industry Professional Award Recipients.

On March 1, Preview Day at the 2024 PHS Flower Show, PLNA member judges Katie Dubow (middle), Larry Shehan (right), and Rob McHale (left) toured the exhibits and awarded the highly regarded PLNA trophy to Irwin Landscape and Prairie Wind of Hockessin, DE.

"From the sight lines to the dense natural plantings, we thought Irwin did the best job creating a stunning landscape while paying homage to the team," Dubow, Shehan, and McHale said.

The PLNA trophy is bestowed to PHS Flower Show exhibits showing the most effective use of plants and the best use of design in the Landscape and Education categories.

The 2024 PHS Flower Show, themed "United by Flowers," took place March 2-10, 2024 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in downtown Philadelphia.

Rich loved plants and creating beautiful outdoor spaces. He earned an A.A.S. in Horticulture-Landscape Design from SUNY-Farmingdale, a B.S.A in Horticulture from the University of Georgia, an M.S. in Ornamental Horticulture from the Pennsylvania State University, and an M.S. in Education from Wilkes University. These accreditations led Rich to a long and distinguished career in academia and in dedication to several professional associations. His 34 years of service to Penn College and its immediate predecessor, Williamsport Area Community College, are a testimony to his passion for education and the horticultural sciences, as well as his admiration and respect for his colleagues, whom he considered family. He was also the owner of Weilminster's Brookside Nursery for over 20 years.

During his professional career, Rich was honored with several awards and distinctions. Among them are Penn College's highest faculty honor, the Veronica M. Muzic Master Teacher Award (1996), and the American Nursery and Landscape Association's L.C. Chadwick Educators Award in recognition of his outstanding work with students. After his retirement in 2006, Rich was granted Faculty Emeritus status at the college. Also that year, he received the Frederick J. Mummert Distinguished Service Award from the Pennsylvania Landscape Nursery Association (PLNA). Rich was a member of the organization's board of directors for more than 20 years, as well as a PLNA life member and Hall of Fame honoree.

Read More

Hagan M. Hetz, age 50, passed away on August 4, 2023, surrounded by his family at his home in Fairview, PA. He was born in Erie, PA on August 31, 1972 to parents D. Garth and Peggy Hetz and was the youngest of their three children. Hagan was grateful to have experienced his childhood and youth in Fairview. The friends he met at St. Stephens pre-school as a four-year old became the cherished friends who shared their lives as the Algonquin Council ever since that beginning nearly 50 years ago. Hagan was a 1991 graduate of Fairview High School in the school system that prepared him and his friends for successful careers across the country.

After earning an MBA from Vanderbilt University in 2001 and working in the insurance industry for four years in Nashville, TN, Hagan returned to his hometown and the family business, Fairview Evergreen Nurseries, Inc., established in 1911 by his great grandfather, Frank C. Hetz. He was a fourth- generation nurseryman. At Fairview Evergreen, he found early success in his position as Vice President of Sales and Marketing, having trained for the dual roles under the guidance of his father. His rapport with nursery industry colleagues, wholesale customers, and clients throughout the eastern and midwestern United States and Canada was evident in the respect and friendships he garnered during his years in sales and marketing.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Hagan was elected President/CEO and Chairman of the Board of Fairview Evergreen Nurseries, Inc. He spent nearly ten years at the helm of the company. He proudly dedicated his working days to the family business and nursery industry, having served several years on the Pennsylvania Landscape and Nursery Association’s government relations committee and its local Western Regional chapter. He was a member of the Hamot Board of Corporators and a longtime supporter of the Horticulture Research Institute...

Read More

For the first time in history, female gardeners have outnumbered their male counterparts competing for medals at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show. An impressive 58% of designers participating in this year's event are women, placing men in the minority. 

This shift is also seen in the college-educated labor force – as women now comprise a majority. In the second quarter of 2022, the labor force participation rate for college-educated women was 69.6%.

These remarkable statistics set the stage for the 4th Annual Women in Horticulture Week, a momentous occasion that recognizes women's accomplishments in the green industry and fosters an environment of empowerment, support, and professional growth.

Scheduled to take place from May 28th to June 3rd, Women in Horticulture Week offers a diverse range of activities, events, and educational sessions designed to acknowledge the invaluable contributions made by women in horticulture. During this inspiring week-long celebration, professionals, industry leaders, and enthusiasts will engage in meaningful discussions, share knowledge, and build strong networks.

Katie Dubow, the president of Garden Media Group, a women-owned public relations firm in the green industry, exclaims, "Women have played a vital role in shaping and advancing the horticulture sector. Their passion, expertise, and commitment have transformed the industry, leading to innovation, sustainability, and increased opportunities for all." Women in Horticulture Week serves as a platform to honor these achievements and create a more inclusive and equitable landscape for women in horticulture.

Ways to Celebrate the Fourth Annual Women in Horticulture Week:

• Share exciting facts about women in business, including your own story, to inspire other women.
• Volunteer or become a mentor. If you're a successful female horticulture entrepreneur, consider volunteering with organizations supporting women or becoming a mentor. If you've never had a mentor, seek one out and learn from their experiences. Ask both peers within and outside the industry for suggestions.
• Renowned leaders and influencers will share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs during the Women in Horticulture series hosted by AmericanHort. The next event is scheduled for June 7th at 2 pm ET and will feature Kariné Stuimer, senior vice president at BrightView Landscape Services.
• Networking sessions will provide opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships that contribute to personal and professional growth. The Women in Hort group is hosting their next networking session on June 5th at the PHS Pop Up Garden at 5 pm ET. Join their group for future opportunities.
• Improve your skills. Whether it's reading a motivational book written by a female entrepreneur or using a new organizational app, continuous learning leads to personal growth.
• Show your support for Women in Horticulture by changing your profile picture.
• Share stories, photos, and inspiration from women in horticulture on your social media channels using the hashtag #womeninhort.

Join us in honoring and empowering women in horticulture during the Fourth Annual Women in Horticulture Week. For more information, including event schedules and registration details, please visit GardenMediaGroup.com or follow us on Instagram at @GardenMedia.

Garden Media ignites buzz for clients, offers innovative PR campaigns, and secures top media placements and partnerships. The boutique PR and marketing firm is known as the best in the home, garden, horticulture, outdoor living, and lawn and landscape industries. The annual Garden Trends Report is one of the most published garden studies in trade and consumer news. Visit www.gardenmediagroup.com for more information.

On March 3, Preview Day at the 2023 PHS Flower Show, PLNA member judges Katie Dubow, Larry Shehan, and Marissa Shander toured the exhibits and awarded the highly-regarded PLNA trophy to "A Modern Stroll" by Mark Cook Landscape & Contracting LLC of Doylestown, PA. 

"Accompanied by a persuading melody, eclectic combinations of horticulture and art allow you to drift as a breeze through this modern stroll. The found sound echoes among the birch and blooms for all travelers' delight." - Mark Cook Landscape & Contracting LLC

The PLNA trophy is bestowed to PHS Flower Show exhibits showing the most effective use of plants and the best use of design in the Landscape and Education categories.

The 2023 PHS Flower Show, themed "The Garden Electric," takes place March 4-12, 2023 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in downtown Philadelphia.

Photo credit: Katie Dubow and Larry Shehan. Top and center: A Modern Stroll at 2023 PHS Flower Show. Bottom: PLNA judges Marissa Shander, Katie Dubow, and Larry Shehan.

Happy 2023!

The new year is in full swing, and we just had a great breakfast membership Meet Up at MANTS in Baltimore. It was fantastic seeing our members in full force at the breakfast. Once significant note was the number of younger members in attendance. The MANTS show was incredible. The amount of people in attendance was surreal. Overall, there was a huge positive vibe at the show and we should expect another strong year for our industry.

This year marks the 30th year I have been in this wonderful industry. I will be serving PLNA and its members as the Board Chair for 2023. For some background, I am the National Sales Manager at Michell’s in King of Prussia, which is a wholesale distribution company that has supplied green industry products since 1890.

PLNA has a lot planned for the coming year! Here’s an idea of what you, as PLNA members, can expect:

• A seat at the table! PLNA is represented on the state Controlled Plant and Noxious Weed Committee, the PA Invasive Species Council, the state’s Pesticide Advisory Board, the PA Department of Environmental Protection Agriculture Advisory Board, the Penn State Ag Council, the Pennsylvania State Council of Farm Organizations, and the Ag Labor Coalition. Additionally, our Government Relations Consultant keeps PLNA apprised of and involved in key legislative and regulatory issues that affect the green industry and your business. 
  
  
• Regional Meet Ups! Watch e-News and social media for details about the next one near you and plan to join us! These Meet Ups are a great way to catch up with old and new friends and colleagues and get firsthand insight on initiatives and issues you need to know.
  
  
• PLNA’s webinar series! These webinars are educational opportunities for all PLNA members, and most are approved for PA Certified Horticulturist (PCH) and Sustainable Landscape Certification (SLC) credits. Recordings are available for PLNA members, and topic suggestions are always welcome. (Email PLNA@PLNA.com if you have a webinar idea).
  
  
• Committees! Did you know that PLNA has active Government Relations, Workforce Development, and PCH committees? Are you interested in getting involved? Let us know and we’ll loop you in to the next committee meeting.
  

Together with the board, I’d like to thank you for your continued membership and commitment to PLNA and the industry. You have helped make Pennsylvania a leader in horticulture. The PLNA board continues to strategize ways to grow the association and help you succeed. I would love to hear from you and can be reached at rmchale@michells.com or 610-487-5841.

Looking forward to meeting more members in 2023 and continuing to strengthen our association!

Rob McHale
2023 PLNA Board Chair

On Dec. 6, PLNA members and PLNA's government relations consultant participated in a PA Department of Agriculture press event at Star® Roses and Plants in Cochranville, PA. The event highlighted "concerted efforts to protect Pennsylvania's economy and environment from damage threats posed by invasive species".

"Thank you to PLNA and the industry for the partnership," said PA Agriculture Sec. Redding. "It is incredibly important to us".

Special thanks to everyone who represented PLNA!

Learn More and Watch Remarks

Photo credit: PA Department of Agriculture

 

"To recognize the people who help keep [Pennsylvania's] enormous economic engine running, City & State Pennsylvania presents its first agriculture-focused power list, highlighting the public officials, farmers, business executives, association heads, labor leaders, policymakers and others who shape the state’s agricultural landscape..."

Gregg Robertson, Government Relations Consultant, Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association
Commonwealth flora have an advocate in Gregg Robertson, the government relations consultant for the Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association. Robertson advocates in Harrisburg and beyond for the PLNA, a 118-year-old trade group whose members comprise Pennsylvania’s $6.8 billion green industry. Robertson, the PLNA’s former president, represents the legislative, regulatory and policy interests of diverse businesses, including landscape contractors, retail garden centers, wholesale nurseries and greenhouses.

Andy Ernst, Vice President, Ernst Conservation Seeds
Andy Ernst has heard that old saw about the apple not falling far from the tree more times than he can count – but in his case, it’s particularly apt. Ernst is vice president of Ernst Conservation Seeds, the Eastern U.S.’s largest native seed producer and supplier, founded by his father, Calvin, on 9,000 acres in northwestern Pennsylvania. In 2015, the Atlantic Seed Association named Andy Ernst Seedsman of the Year for his innovation and advocacy with the native seed industry.

“Congratulations to Gregg Robertson and Andy Ernst for their recognition on the Power 100 list,” says Katie Dubow, PLNA board chair. “Both individuals are trailblazers in Pennsylvania’s green industry. Gregg has long championed and monitored legislation that impacts PLNA members. Andy has demonstrated his commitment to PLNA and the green industry at large through his board and committee service and representation on Pennsylvania state-level committees and task forces. This is a well-deserved recognition for Gregg and Andy, and we are lucky to have them on our team”.

Read the Article

Congratulations, Gregg and Andy!

Businesses operating in the quarantine area must apply for a permit to operate within the quarantine area and follow rules governing the movement of their vehicles and products which could harbor SLF eggs, and hatched juvenile and adult insects. Businesses are responsible for educating their employees and taking mitigation measures necessary to prevent the spread of SLF to areas outside of the quarantine area.

To see a map of the entire quarantine area and get information on obtaining a permit, click here.

To help our industry guard against spreading SLF egg masses and other life stages of the insect, the Pennsylvania of Agriculture has developed in cooperation with PLNA a set of best management practices (BMPs) checklists for each segment of our industry: wholesale nurseries, retail garden centers and landscape contractors. Each set of BMPs is tailored specifically to that segment.

These BMPs are available for download from the PDA website at the links below:

Spotted Lanternfly Best Management Practices for Wholesale Nurseries

Spotted Lanternfly Best Management Practices for Retail Garden Centers

Spotted Lanternfly Best Management Practices for Landscape Contractors

Other resources for SLF management can be found at the PDA website and the Penn State Extension website.

Please download these BMPs and use them in your business this spring. Help stop the spread of the spotted lanternfly!

To help our industry guard against spreading SLF egg masses and other life stages of the insect, the Pennsylvania of Agriculture has developed in cooperation with PLNA a set of best management practices (BMPs) checklists for each segment of our industry: wholesale nurseries, retail garden centers and landscape contractors. Each set of BMPs is tailored specifically to that segment.

These BMPs are available for download from the PDA website at the links below:

Spotted Lanternfly Best Management Practices for Wholesale Nurseries

Spotted Lanternfly Best Management Practices for Retail Garden Centers

Spotted Lanternfly Best Management Practices for Landscape Contractors

Other resources for SLF management can be found at the PDA website and the Penn State Extension website.

Please download these BMPs and use them in your business this spring. Help stop the spread of the spotted lanternfly!

Washington

In January, NLAP and other H-2-B advocates made an aggressive push in the house to support H.R. 3897 and a returning worker exemption.  Nearly 50 cosponsors added their name to H.R. 3897 because of these efforts. 

Additionally, 35 Senators sent a letter to the Administration to promptly release nearly 45,000 supplemental visas for April 1st date of need. 

There is positive momentum behind these efforts and beginning February 16th and going through February 25th the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) is holding virtual legislative days with more than 100 meetings scheduled.  To assist these meetings, and keep the pressure on, NOW we need you to send a note to Congress urging H-2B cap relief. 

The message is simple and generic to support all possible pathways to success via an returning worker exemption and also a supplemental release of visas. 

Send a message to your Members of Congress today asking them to act immediately to address H-2B cap relief. 

Feel free to edit the pre-drafted note below and then press “Send” to deliver the message to your elected officials TODAY. 

Click here to send a letter!

• Glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus (Synonym: Rhamnus frangula)) was listed as a Class B noxious weed. PDA will accept applications from growers for exemption of sterile cultivars of the species. This becomes effective 60 days after publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
• Common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) (Class B). There was no enforcement phase-in and becomes effective 60 days after publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
• Ravenna grass (Tripidium ravennae) (Synonyms: Saccharum ravennae, Erianthus ravennae) was listed as a Class A noxious weed. Retail locations will be permitted to sell existing stocks until the end of September 2022 but are not permitted to restock or reorder during that period. This becomes effective 60 days after publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

For more information on PDA’s noxious weed program, click here.

Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia and Lancaster Counties had been included in the quarantine area.

The quarantine had also prohibited the shipment of black walnut into Pennsylvania from other states known to have infected black walnut trees, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Indiana, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia and Washington.

TCD is caused by the fungus Geosmithia morbida and spread by the walnut twig beetle, Pityophthorus juglandis. The quarantine order is being repealed due to recent studies which have shown the fungus and the beetle spreading it to be endemic to the eastern United States and that the mortality observed in affected black walnut trees may have been due to other factors such as drought.

For more information click here.

It is common practice for commercial enterprises to include clauses in their snow and ice removal contracts that make the contractor fully liable for any snow and Ice related accidents, even those that are not their fault. This bill would prohibit that practice.

The bill now moves to the Pennsylvania Senate for consideration and was referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Harrisburg – The Governor’s Invasive Species Council (PISC) has developed a list of twenty-five plant genera that it is recommending be banned from the nursery trade by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Controlled Plant and Noxious Weed Committee (CPNWC). This list was distilled down from a list of 150 that the PISC is considering.

The PISC has only advisory powers, but the CPNWC has the regulatory power to ban plants from the nursery trade. PLNA has representation on both the PISC and the CPNWC and had a voice in the creation of the list of twenty-five plant genera. While this list was sent to the CPNWC as a whole, each plant species will be considered and acted upon separately by the CPNWC.

Growers should consider this list when deciding which species they will invest in growing in the future. While not all are guaranteed to be banned by the CPNWC, there is the real possibility that they could be.

Stay tuned to PLNA e-News for more as this story develops.

The list can be reviewed below.