Price $2.00 Because land doesn’t come with a manual. . . ISSN 1554-656X

The Newsletter of the Ecological Landscaping Association Vol. 14, No. 2 Summer 2007 Don’t Bug Me! If all mankind were to disappear, the world would regenerate back to the rich state of equilibrium that existed ten thousand years ago. If were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos. – E. O. Wilson

Th e In v a s i o n o f t h e Ho m e Sn a t c h e r s • Bruce Wenning

any kinds of pests find their ate in raising their young, finding damaged. When Carpenter ants way into your home. Some you food and defending the colony. They invade a home or other wooden Mcan tolerate, others you can’t. Carpen- exhibit a caste system comprised of a structure and establish a colony ter ants and carpenter bees are insects queen, males and workers. The division with a queen, it is usually bad news. that want to move in with you. When of labor in the colony is an integral Carpenter ants can be found they invade your space, the damage condition of group living. Queens fly around the periphery of your home can be extensive and costly. to mate with males, and once mated, in moist foundation mulches, piles Ants are the most recognized in- a queen will remove her wings and of damp leaves and branches and sects on earth, with many subfamilies, remain dedicated to egg laying for the woodpiles. The best approach to genera and species worldwide. They are colony. Males have wings and die soon the carpenter ant problem is pre- in the Order Hymenoptera (bees, ants, after mating with the queen. Workers, ventive: eliminate damp habitats wasps, sawflies and parasitic wasps). as their name implies, do most of the around the exterior of your home They have three distinct body regions; colony’s work; they are sterile wingless (as well as inside). head, thorax, and abdomen, and their females. Large colonies can have over Carpenter ants are frequently antennae, which are usually elbowed 3,000 worker ants. confused with termites, which (bent), function as chemical receptors. There are many ant species found are also wood-destroying insects. Ants nest in colonies and cooper- throughout the United States. The Termites are soft-bodied and usu- contents most destructive Eastern species is ally white or cream colored; they Camponotus pennsylvanicus, the black are sometimes called, erroneously, 1 The Invasion of the Home Snatchers carpenter ant, which is common in “white ants” although they are 3 From the President New England. These ants are attracted more closely related to cockroaches 6 Better Grub and Control to damp wood caused by leaking roofs, than to ants. Carpenter ants, in 8 Book Review wood in contact with soil, leaking contrast, are hard-bodied and black 9 Insect Factoids, Gleanings plumbing fixtures, insulation, blocked or dark brown in color. Termites 10 Events, Announcements gutters, poorly ventilated attics and (which are in the small order 11 Unclassifieds crawl spaces, and other wooden struc- Isoptera, meaning equal wings) 12 Discover Eco Landscaping Bulk Order Form tures (supports, walls, pillars, siding, have fore and hind wings that are 13 Discover Eco Landscaping Sample pages joists, sills) that are rotted or water- nearly equal in size and which fold — 1— at rest close to the body. Carpenter ern species, Xylocopa virginica. They can The Ecological Landscaper is pub- ants, whose fore wings are larger than cause significant damage by boring into lished by the Ecological Landscaping Association (ELA). Subscriptions are their hind wings, usually extend or hold and excavating wood year after year. You a benefit of membership in ELA. For their wings above their body at rest. may see this species flying near window- information about ELA, contact: Termites do not have a “waist” (con- sills, eaves, wooden siding, fence posts, striction between the thorax and abdo- railings, and other very dry wooden men), whereas carpenter ants do have structures. An infestation is first detect- ELA this constriction. Termites have bead- ed by finding large amounts of sawdust 1257 Worcester Rd., #262 like antennae while carpenter ants have below half-inch diameter entrance holes Framingham, MA 01701 their antennae in segments resembling a in wood. Applying linseed oil to dry (617) 436-5838 short “arm” and “elbow.” Unlike termites, wood can reduce the attractiveness of www.ecolandscaping.org carpenter ants do not eat or digest wood, such wood to these bees. but instead excavate mostly moist and Carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and Write to us! We welcome comments, soft wood (and sometimes dry wood) termites utilize trees and other woody letters, articles, topic ideas, and opin- ions. Send to: and deposit the resulting “sawdust” plants and materials as part of their life ELA cycle. Each is important in its respective Newsletter Editor niche, but when they invade our domain 1257 Worcester Rd., #262 they become pests. Homeowners who Framingham, MA 01701 find it necessary to control or eradicate them should consult a certified pest Send all other ELA business, includ- control company and request that they ing address changes, to the Framing- ham address listed above. deal with the problem in the most envi- ronmentally benign way possible. The ELA board meets throughout the year in various locations in eastern A carpenter ant For more information see Arnold Massachusetts. All members are Photo by Clemson University USDA Mallis, Handbook of Pest Control; welcome. Contact us for specific dates Cooperative Extension Slide Series Hansen & Klotz, Carpenter Ants of the and locations. United States and Canada, and www. ceinfo.unh.edu. ELA Board of Directors outside their colony, while keeping their Bruce Wenning is a horticulturist galleries clean. Wood digesting termites, President: Dennis Collins working at Land Sakes in Newton and Vice President: Sandy Vorce on the other hand, line their galleries serves on the Board of Directors of the Treasurer: Sue Storer with moist soil. Carpenter ants are both Recording Secretary: Owen Wormser Ecological Landscaping Association. predators and scavengers, feeding on This article originally appeared in live and dead insects, plant sap of certain Members at Large The Newton TAB in 2006. plants, aphid and sap sucking insect Donald Bishop Bob Levite Joanna Campe Chris O’Brien honey dew, and various food scraps. Karen Dominguez- Cathy Rooney Another type of wood-destroying Brann Kathy Sargent- insect, sometimes mistaken for bumble Peter Hinrichs O’Neill bees, are carpenter bees, also in the order William Jewell Maureen Sundberg Andrea Knowles Bruce Wenning Hymenoptera (like carpenter ants). They EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY: differ from bumble bees in their body ELA has a new Executive Administrator: Penny Lewis markings. Carpenter bees have black ab- Each author appearing herein retains domens while bumble bees have yellow mailing address . . original copyright. Right to reproduce or abdominal markings. Carpenter bees tend disseminate all material herein is other- to fly and hover high up against buildings 1257 Worcester Rd, #262 wisely reserved by ELA. Please contact Framingham, MA 01701 the Editor for permission to reprint. and windowsills to excavate their galleries in dry wood. Females have a stinger but Mention of products is not intended to con- stitute endorsement. Opinions expressed in rarely sting. Males do not have a stinger Please be sure that all future this newsletter do not necessarily represent and are harmless to humans. correspondence is sent here. those of ELA’s directors, staff, or members. The US has seven species of carpen- Thanks. ter bees. The most destructive to homes ©Ecological Landscaping 2007 and other wooden structures is the East- — 2— professionals and the general public to the message than ever before. about the ecological and human health Obviously, the stakes are high. hazards of some conventional land- Development and population growth scaping practices. present some sobering statistics. The Only time will tell if I have what EPA suggests that 8 billion gallons is necessary for this job. Other than a per day (about a third of residential willingness to serve, my experience in water use) is used in residential lawn landscaping and horticulture (about 25 and garden irrigation, a figure that will years) and in another professional or- vary significantly in dry regions and ganization, the American Public Gar- during droughts. Worldwatch Insti- dens Association, make up my quali- tute, a Washington-based think tank, fications. My “real job” is with Mount estimated that our roughly 18,000 golf Auburn Cemetery, a botanical garden courses use another 4 billion gallons and cemetery founded 176 years ago of water per day for irrigation. Recent by the Massachusetts Horticultural surveys by the National Gardening Society, where we are trying to move Association and the Garden Writers towards an ecologically sustainable of America Association (2005-2007) Fr o m t h e Pr e s i d e n t : horticulture program. present an attention-grabbing picture As luck would have it, this seems for residential landscaping. First, there Checking the pulse of ELA like an interesting time for me to be are 82 million Americans who have • Dennis Collins serving in this role. This organization, at least a garden or a lawn. While and the American landscaping/garden- 78% of American homeowners claim t is an honor for me to address the ing public as well, seem to be in rather to do something in the way of work membership of ELA and readers of critical states of transition. ELA recog- in their yards, just over a third of all theI newsletter as the incoming presi- nizes that educating about the environ- households hire a professional con- dent of the ELA Board of Directors. mental costs of conventional landscap- tractor to do some sort of landscape/ I had earlier volunteered to write an ing practices, and offering alternatives lawn service. Thus, the majority of article for this issue about how mem- to it, will not have the desired impact residential landscaping (more than bers and colleagues, and the ecological until a critical mass of public awareness 54 million homes) is still being done landscaping industry in general, are is reached. Since most of our problems by nonprofessionals. We know that faring in various parts of the country. arise from the sheer number of people most Americans choose to have lawns, As it also seemed appropriate to intro- overtaxing water supplies and misusing though the number of lawns, and their duce myself and share a few thoughts pesticides and fertilizers, the solutions sizes, are declining. Figures for corpo- with you on how I see the organization lie in reaching the largest possible audi- rate landscapes are more elusive, yet at this point in time, this effort became ence with the message. Fortunately, our most of us are familiar with typical of- a hybrid. membership is growing and members fice park developments that rely heav- Although my family may have are coming from diverse geographic ily on large-scale turf. Finally, the US good reason to question my sanity areas. ELA is coming to terms with Fish and Wildlife Service announced a for voluntarily serving in this role, I how best to serve its members nation- few years ago that homeowners use 10 think most people who are aware of wide (and there is good news on that times more pesticides per acre on their the need to change the way a lot of us front). Also, due to a convergence of lawns than farmers use on their crops. approach landscaping/gardening, who factors including climate-change, a rise Personally, as a food consumer, I don’t see the stakes involved, want to help in petroleum prices and headline news know whether this should make me when and wherever they can. This is about soil and water contamination, the happy or not. just my chance to help in a small way. I American public seems more receptive say “small” because, unlike the national presidential candidates, I have no po- 2007 Membership Directory Supplement litical platform or agenda to pursue. ELA already has a mission and I see The printed supplement to the 2007 Membership Directory will be mailed my role as simply helping the orga- out shortly to ELA members. It will contain the contact information of members who joined after the Directory was produced in April 2007. nization achieve it. That mission, in a nutshell, is to educate both landscape — 3— common expres- ing community’s attention toward sion for describ- ecological practices, the widespread ing a “perfect” attitudes about residential lawns might lawn is to say eventually be changed as well. it’s like a golf Other types of large-scale land- course. Perhaps scape managers are also playing a the overzealous role in changing to non-conventional pursuit of perfect practices, especially botanic gardens lawns during the and college campuses. In southern past twenty years California, where everything revolves is related to the around water use, three notable ef- millions of people forts are underway to find suitable spending time on lawn substitutes. Leaning Pine Arbo- golf courses (that, retum, on the campus of California and of course, Polytechnic State Institute, is test- peer-pressure and ing a turf of Carex praegracilis (Dune multi-million Sedge) with promising results. At the dollar market- Charles Lummis Home and Garden, ing budgets). It’s an historic property owned by the possible that this city of Los Angeles, a lawn of Achil- relationship with lea millefolium (Yarrow) is now well golf might some- established. [See Alex Feleppa’s article day lead many in the previous issue of the Newsletter people towards for a similar testing in Oregon.] The more ecologi- Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, cally responsible in Claremont near the San Gabriel landscaping in Mountains, has installed a new lawn of Rather than be discouraged by all their homes. After being a favorite Koeleria macrantha ‘Barykoel’ (a culti- this, we could consider that there has target of environmentalists for many var of Prairie Junegrass). actually been improvement in recent years, golf courses are beginning to On the opposite coast, Brookside years. An organization called Beyond change. There are still very few strictly Gardens in Silver Spring, MD is in its Pesticides (formerly National Coali- organically managed courses today, 11th year of producing and using high tion Against the Misuse of Pesticides) but an impressive number of courses quality compost. This 50 acre garden notes that 5 million homes now use are exploring alternative management processes 300-400 cubic yards of raw only organic lawn treatments and an- practices that include integrated pest material annually, yielding about half other 35 million use a combination of management, reduced irrigation, bio- this volume of finished compost. This organic and conventional treatments. logical controls for disease and insect is then used for topdressing beds in They cited a Wall Street Journal article problems and more restrained use of the garden, amending soils in garden from 2006 as evidence that the issues chemical pesticides. More than 2,000 renovation projects, and makes up part have finally become mainstream in the courses are participating in the Audu- of the potting media in the garden’s public’s consciousness. bon Cooperative Sanctuary Program production greenhouse. Bert Zeitler, The golf industry, and its contri- where changing maintenance practices who oversees the composting opera- bution of $49 billion annually to the can lead to certification. Clearly, the tion, says that in addition to water US economy, is a force to be reck- industry is responding somewhat to conservation, the most noticeable ben- oned with. The sport saw a dramatic negative publicity when it launches efits are reduced amounts of fertilizer construction boom during the 1980s and promotes its green initiatives. The and fungicide in the greenhouse and and 90s and a corresponding number trend in this direction might continue nursery program. of avid golfers took up playing (now if the public supports those courses Residential landscaping is where estimated at 26 million). I think there that embrace environmental steward- ELA members tend to be found. Be- is an interesting dynamic at work ship, thereby creating more demand fore writing this, I conducted an in- between golf courses in general and for more of them. What is even more formal survey with 18 of our members Americans’ love affair with the lawn. A promising is that by shifting the golf- scattered around the country and with — 4— they got the plant selection wrong, but to be in the habit of expecting instant it was nice to see the concept used”. results in landscape renovation as well The obsession with lawns can still as in projects that happen inside their be found in most parts of the country. homes. From what the people I polled Celia Ryker, in Ortonville, MI, thinks indicated, most of them being ecologi- “...it will be a long time before we cal landscape professionals, teaching see fewer lawns, but my hope is that the client is a large part of the jobs we can make them less chemical they do. Most say it has always been dependent”. However, Michael Kusiak that way for them, and that they are reports that his clients in the Santa used to it by now. The early stages of compost production at Brookside Gardens in Maryland. Differ- Cruz, CA area are now more willing Somehow it seems about right that ent raw materials are mixed together and to reduce the size of their lawns, if not so many members of ELA, an orga- allowed to mature (with occasional turn- abandon them entirely. Yet a curious nization established for the purpose ing) for a little more than a year. contradiction can be found in the de- of educating, are finding themselves Photo: D. Collins bates about whether to have a lawn or teaching as much as they do. There is not have one. While Terry Childs in a symbiotic and radiating progression some people from outside the organi- Gananoque, Ontario says people really at ELA with members learning from zation. Their comments seem to sug- like their lawns because of their low programs, teaching programs, and also gest that public demand for ecological maintenance, Bill Jewell in Brattle- teaching the public through their cli- services, while still relatively small, is boro, VT says he has the most success ents (a sort of private tutoring?). Ul- nonetheless growing. As col- timately, the work of this organization leagues from various places is done by individual members who note similar challenges and contribute time and energy to it. If it report stories that seem famil- seems unbalanced that they should iar to all of us, we get a sense also have to spend so much time that while plant palettes and teaching on their own, then it’s my job climate may differ, the eco- to point out that as ELA succeeds in logical landscape movement its mission, their jobs will become eas- is truly a national effort that ier. That elusive “critical mass of public we’re engaged in. awareness” that we need will radically Water use is the biggest A new landscape in Santa Cruz, CA with no change the way ecological landscap- issue that we share in com- lawn area. Note the retaining wall built from ing is practiced in America, once it is mon. Whether from dire need recycled pavement fragments. reached. Meanwhile, the contribution in places where water is scarce, Photo: Michael Kusiak © 2007 of time and energy from all of ELA’s such as in the west and south- members is sorely needed. west, or from a sense of responsibility convincing people to forego lawns If you’ve offered to volunteer for in those places where more rain falls, with older folks who no longer want projects in the past, but have not been people are trying to build landscapes the trouble of maintaining them! How called on, then it’s my job to say we with lower water needs. Yet other as- can it be both ways? will try harder to match volunteer of- pects of rainfall are also prominent. I suspect the answer lies in public fers with tasks that are needed. I urge In the mountains of North Carolina, perceptions about what constitutes you to get involved in any way you landscaper Thomas Young reported “low maintenance”. They must vary as can. As the organization enters a new that a severe thunderstorm drew in- much as people’s expectations about growth phase, there will be no short- tense media coverage on flooding how long it should take for new land- age of those tasks. At the ELA board caused by improper sediment control scapes to look good following instal- meeting, held on July 25th, the process by developers. Sadly, public aware- lation, which was another common for forming ELA regional chapters ness often lags until a disaster calls response to my question on the biggest took a step forward. After receiving attention to a problem. Rain gardens challenges people faced. All Landscap- an informative analysis conducted by are starting to become more common. ers, no matter their methods, have to the law firm that was retained to help Ken Christensen, from Kent, Ohio, contend with that one, though some draft the chapter documents, the board was astonished to find one recently at a have the quick-fix bluegrass sod avail- re-affirmed its final vision for chapters Sheets Gas Station. He noted that “... able in their toolbags. The public seems which was the result of several years of — 5— planning. The lawyers will now finish drafting the chapter policy and legal The Ecological Landscaping papers. The board also agreed to pro- Association Wants You! ceed with plans to upgrade the website by providing expanded content and Once again, we want to let you know that we welcome motivated, interactivity. There will be more an- energetic individuals who support our mission and purpose to join us in nouncements as the site nears comple- developing and administering the programs and initiatives of our orga- tion this Fall. nization. Our past success and the ability to improve and expand ELA in My willingness to serve as presi- the future depend on the support and involvement of many people. Your dent is based on the hope that you interests, enthusiasm and talents may be just what are needed. Different will help me. I welcome and encour- opportunities for participation are available: age your comments and suggestions because I believe that if we know best Board of Directors – The board is a core group of volunteers who how to improve ELA specifically for do the month-to-month work to keep the organization healthy, growing you, we will know how to make it bet- and vital: policy setting, program development, strategic planning and ter for those members we anticipate financial management. We’re especially looking for people with some ex- joining in the future. perience in finance, grant writing and fundraising, computer technology, marketing, public relations and organizational development. The board generally meets once per month between September and March. Committees – The various committees play a vital role in car- rying out the work of the organization. Participation on standing com- mittees or helping with specific projects might be something you could e tt e r r u b a n d n s e c t B G I offer. Opportunities are available in conference planning, fundraising, Co n t r o l : publications, national governance, public relations, board recruitment, membership services, and on ad hoc committees. Creativity, enthusiasm, Combining pesticides and writing/communication skills, dedication, and of course, a little free time nematodes improves results are what we need. Do you have any to lend?

hat do you get when you mix Getting involved is as simple as calling us at (617) 436-5838, or dropping certain pesticides and insect us a line at [email protected]. Let us know how and when to reach parasiticW nematodes? The perfect killer. you and we will get in touch. According to Parwinder S. Grewal, an entomologist with the Ohio Agri- cultural Research and Development Center (OARDC), some insecticides tural pests. Several species have been Grewal discovered that he insecticide can increase the effectiveness of ento- successfully used for pest control in imidacloprid and the nematodes Het- mopathogenic nematodes, which are citrus, cranberries, mint, strawberries, erorhabditis bacteriophora and Stein- used to control pests such as white mushrooms, nurseries, greenhouses, ernema glaseri interact synergistically grubs and fungus gnats. and turfgrass in North America, Eu- against turfgrass’s biggest nemesis: “While some pesticides can be rope, Japan, and Australia. Grapes are white grubs. toxic for the nematodes, others en- expected to join the list next year. White grubs are the root-feeding hance their parasitic effect,” Grewal “We’ve been studying the com- larvae of scarab (such as explained. “The pesticide and the patibility of nematodes with other masked chafers, the Japanese , nematodes act in a synergistic way.” pest control sources over the last few and the oriental beetle), which cause Which means the pesticide does not years,” Grewal said. “This is a very nice significant damage to many agricul- turn nematodes into mutant killers, discovery because the lack of compat- tural and horticultural plants. but rather works as a loyal sidekick ibility information has been a major One of the most widely used while the nematodes combat harmful impediment to further expansion of agents to destroy white grubs is insects. the [nematodes’] use.” imidacloprid–an insecticide found in Found abundantly in the soil, Together with colleagues from products such as Admire, Condifor, nematodes are microscopic worms that Rutgers University, New Jersey, and Gaucho, Premier, Premise, Provado, kill many insect and mollusk agricul- the University of California at Davis, and Marathon. However, the efficacy — 6— of this insecticide declines as the white which fungicides were safe.” 50,000 acres each year to help control grub develops, so it has to be applied Grewal concluded that Nimbecid- the citrus root weevil. Unlike pesti- preventatively to large turf areas that ine, Cinnamate, and ZeroTol were tox- cides, nematodes continue working may or may not be infected. ic to nematodes. Meanwhile, Abound for quite some time after the first Entomopathogenic nematodes, on and neem (the active ingredient in application–a single host can produce the other hand, are effective against Nimbecidine, used in this case as pure 300,000 to 400,000 new nematodes, the later stages of the white grub. Af- oil without any additives) caused no which then seek additional victims. ter entering the body cavity of insects harmful effect on the nematodes. Grewal’s research on the compat- through a variety of openings, nema- “The more we learn about the ibility of nematodes with pesticides was todes release bacteria that multiply interaction of nematodes with agro- funded by an OARDC grant. OARDC and kill the host within three to four chemicals, the better we are equipped is the research arm of Ohio State Uni- days. The nematodes then feed on the to offer safer and more cost-effective versity’s College of Food, Agricultural, dead insect, reproduce, and migrate in insect management methods,” Gre- and Environmental Sciences. search of new hosts. wal remarked. “With this knowledge, Nonetheless, white grubs have nematodes are more likely to be ac- - from News and Media Relations, developed a series of behavioral, mor- cepted by growers as an effective way College of Food, Agricultural, and En- phological, and physiological barriers to fight pests.” vironmental Sciences, The Ohio State to infection during their co-evolution Entomopathogenic nematodes University; Columbus: (614) 292- with nematodes, which makes it hard- have been mass-produced since the 2011; Wooster: (330) 263-3775. er for the worms to penetrate their mid ‘80s, and their use is becoming hosts. That’s where imidacloprid comes more popular. Florida orange grow- into play. ers, for instance, apply nematodes to “Imidacloprid disrupts white grubs’ normal nerve function, breaking down the defenses that they display in re- sponse to nematode attack,” Grewal ELA’s 2007 Annual Meeting Recap explained. “This helps the nematodes The recent ELA summer Annual Meeting provided an get inside the grubs and start the para- opportunity to celebrate another successful year as a leader in sitic cycle.” environmental education and stewardship. In addition to the Since the later white grub stages annual business meeting and report on the annual ballot results, an are easier to detect, Grewal suggests appreciation potluck dinner was held to thank the many volunteers applying an imidacloprid-nematode that have contributed to the ELA efforts throughout the year. mix to infected turf. This combination reduces costs and provides a safer and Thanks to Andrea Knowles and Kathy Sargent-O’Neill for more environmentally friendly alterna- helping to organize this year’s Annual Meeting at the Wolbach tive to more hazardous agro-chemicals Farm in Sudbury, Massachusetts, the permanent home of the Sud- used for turfgrass pest control. bury Valley Trustees, www.sudburyvalleytrustees.org. Grewal has also studied the resis- tance of the nematode Steinernema 2007 Ballot Results feltiae to fungicides such as Nimbeci- dine, cynnamaldehyde (Cinnamate), The slate of ELA officers for the upcoming year is: Dennis ZeroTol, and azoxystrobin (Abound). Collins, President; Sandy Vorce, Vice–President; Sue Storer, Steinernma feltiae is used for the con- Treasurer; Owen Wormser, Secretary. Incumbent Board members trol of fungus gnats. elected to serve additional terms are: Dennis Collins, William “It is usually more economical Jewell, Chris O’Brien, Kathy Sargent-O’Neill, and Robert Levite. to tank-mix nematodes with one or Newly elected to the Board are: Maureen Sundberg and Peter more inputs for application,” Grewal Hinrichs. Board members serving existing terms are: Sue Storer, said. “Nematodes are tolerant to short Cathy Rooney, Bruce Wenning, Donald Bishop, Owen Wormser, exposures of most fungicides, but in Andrea Knowles, Karen Dominguez-Brann, Sandy Vorce, and some cases these chemicals can re- Joanna Campe. duce nematode viability and virulence. That’s why we needed to know for sure — 7— BOOK REVIEW Welcome to New Th e En c y c l o p e d i a o f Gr a s s e s f o r Li v a b l e La n d s c a p e s ELA Board Members

Text and photography by Rick Darke We are delighted to have two outstanding additions to the ELA Published by Timber Press Board: Maureen Sundberg and Peter Hinrichs. ick Darke has created a very informative, photographic tour of the world of grasses. This book is a comprehensive As ELA continues to expand its Rresource for anyone, from landscape designer to home gardener, outreach to the homeowner com- who is interested in using grasses in ecological landscaping. The munity, it is with great enthusi- asm that we welcome Maureen photos, ideas, and references, presented are quite varied from re- Sundberg as our first homeowner gional to world landscapes, rural to cityscapes, diverse habitats to representative to the ELA Board. seasonal displays, and small backyards to sprawling open spaces. Maureen is a passionate gar- dener, environmental advocate, The book is hefty at almost 500 pages and at first glance, with and active community volunteer. over 1000 pictures would appear to be solely a rich photo refer- As a Girl Scout leader for more ence. Delving into the book reveals a more intricate relationship than 10 years, Maureen has between the author and his subject. Darke’s depth of experience been instrumental in introducing and expert knowledge of grasses unfold with both sensitivity and environmental awareness and detail. He allows for the reader to enter a worthy conversation ecological gardening practices to countless young girls. Recently, and gain perspective from looking at grasses and landscapes from Maureen helped girls organize many different angles. and run a Green Power Day for Andover/North Andover children The first several chapters draw you into a display of aesthetic and construct Barred Owl houses and design possibilities, while exploring the relationship between to be installed at local conserva- grasses, native habitats, and human culture. Chapter five provides tion properties. Maureen lives practical information on cultivation, growth and maintenance, and gardens with her family in and Chapter 7, still replete with photos, delivers a comprehen- Andover, MA. sive, alphabetical, encyclopedia of the plants themselves. One can Peter Hinrichs comes to ELA with an extensive background choose to bask in the images taking in the beauty of grasses or in gardening and a degree in flip directly to an entry for a particular plant to learn its habitat, landscape architecture. With behavior and hardiness. The grasses presented include True grasses many years work experience in (), sedges (Cyperaceae), rushes ( Juncaceae), restios (Res- horticulture and landscaping in tionaceae), and cattails (Typhanceae). both the private and nonprofit worlds, Peter’s background and This work includes a dialog around the concept of Livable interests are quite diverse. Peter is Landscapes. “Livable landscapes are gardens that are personal, currently the Gardens Curator at intimate spaces that simultaneously celebrate community and the Massachusetts Horticultural Soci- joy of the connected landscape. They include local approaches that ety where he is involved in many aspects of garden education for are cognizant of global realities and trends.” Darke uses grasses as both adults and children. Earlier a lens to explore issues of sustainability and ethical approaches to in Peter’s career, he worked for landscaping. More about the book, its author and concepts can be Treefrog Landscapes, Inc. on eco- found at http://www.livable-landscapes.com/ . Contact the pub- logical designs and educational lisher at www.timberpress.com for availability of this book. Tim- programs. ber Press is a Portland, Oregon, publisher of books about garden- Please join us in welcoming ing, horticulture, and botany. Maureen and Peter!

– Review by Sandy Vorce — 8— INSECT FACTOIDS ð CT DEP Advises Anglers and Boaters to Take Precautions to Prevent Spread of The Ecological Landscaping “Didymo” Into Connecticut Waters • Insects can be distinguished from Association would like to thank other small by their six legs, three body parts (head, thorax and the following for their generous Highly invasive alga found in Vermont in abdomen), antennae, compound eye, help in sustaining our mission the Connecticut and White Rivers and wings (usually, but not always). through the Annual Appeal: The Connecticut Department of Envi- ronmental Protection today is advising • 95% of all the species on the anglers and boaters to be on the lookout earth are insects. Nancy Askin for the highly invasive freshwater alga Didymosphenia geminata, known as • Over one million species have been Seymour Askin Jr. discovered by scientists. “Didymo” and to take precautions to pre- Bernadette Bailey vent its spread into Connecticut waters. • Insects eat more plants than all the The call was prompted when the Vermont other creatures on earth. Jonathan Bransfield Agency of Natural Resources recently confirmed that the alga has been found in Insects are incredibly adaptable • Jake Clapp the northern reaches of the Connecticut creatures and have evolved to live River near Bloomfield, VT, and at several successfully in most environments Elkhorn Native Plant Nursery sites along the White River, a tributary of on earth, including deserts and even Cliff Fountaine the Connecticut River in central Vermont. the Antarctic. The only place where This is the first official report of Didymo insects are not commonly found is in Cathy Miner Hartenstein the oceans. in the northeastern United States. Dave MacDonald During blooms, didymo can form • Grasshoppers can jump 40 times the thick mats of cottony material (typically length of their body Elizabeth Newell gray, white and/or brown, but never Sue Storer green in color) on the bottoms of rivers • Ants can carry objects that weight and streams that can potentially smother 100 times the weight of their own Roger Sturgis aquatic plants, aquatic insects and mol- body. lusks, destroy fish habitat, and negatively Katherine Udall affect existing food webs. Didymo is • There are more than 300,000 species most frequently found in relatively shal- of beetles, making them the largest Bruce Wenning low streams and rivers having a rocky order of insects in the world. Camilla Worden substrate. Didymo is not expected to be • A species of Australian dragon fly has problem in the lower Connecticut River been clocked at 36 MPH. Thank you as well to our many or in lakes; however, it could have a large impact on fish and other aquatic organ- valued ELA supporters who isms if introduced to the state’s smaller gleanings wish to remain anonymous. rivers. Humans are the primary vector re- sponsible for the recent spread of didymo. ð Landscaping at the Water’s Edge: An Anglers, kayakers and canoeists, boaters Ecological Approach, a new book from Climate Change on March 21, 2007. and jet skiers can all unknowingly spread UNH Cooperative Extension, explains To learn more about the New England didymo. This microscopic alga can cling how landscaping choices affect ground Wild Flower Society and to read the to fishing gear, waders (felt soles can be water and demonstrates how, with simple policy in its entirety visit their web site at especially problematic), boots and boats, observations, ecologically-based design, www.newenglandwild.org and click on and remain viable for several weeks and low-impact maintenance practices, the word “Conservation” or call 508-877- under even slightly moist conditions. It you can protect–even improve–the quality 7630 or visit New England Wild Flower is recommended that water recreational- of our water resources. Call 862-1564 or Society at Garden in the Woods, 180 ists practice order online at: Hemenway Rd., Framingham, MA 01701. CHECK, CLEAN, DRY http://extension.unh.edu/Pubs/Pubs.htm. procedures: Applicable to all of New England. ð Green Tips are now available on the website of the Union of Concerned Sci- • CHECK : Before leaving a river or ð Policy on Climate Change entists [email protected]. A large stream, remove all obvious clumps of The New England Wild Flower Society’s range of topics are covered from global algae and look for hidden clumps. Leave Board of Trustees adopted a Policy on warming to bottled water. them at the affected site. If you find any — 9— gleanings con’t. ð 2007-2008 ELA Roundtables Sept. 16 – Annual Fall Plant Sale The first of three roundtables has been Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain, MA later, do not wash them down drains; scheduled for December 1, 2007. 617-524-1718 dispose all material in the trash. Please check the ELA website www.arboretum.harvard.edu www.ecolandscaping.org and the Fall • CLEAN : Soak and scrub all items newsletter for information about the Janu- Sept. 21-23 – Common Ground Country for at least one minute in either hot (140 ary and February 2008 roundtables. Fair degrees F) water, a two percent solution Main Organic Farmers and Gardeners’ of household bleach or a five percent Saturday Dec. 1, 2007 Association, Unity, ME solution of salt, antiseptic hand cleaner or 9:00am-12:00pm – Bio-control in the 207-568-4141 dishwashing detergent. Garden: New Research and Techniques www.mofga.org for Invasives • DRY : If cleaning is not practical, after Co-sponsors: Arnold Arboretum and the October 28-31, 2007 – Ecological the item is completely dry to touch, wait Ecological Landscape Association Landscaping Conference: From scientific an additional 48 hours before contact or Fee: $35 member, $40 nonmember principles to public policies and prac- use in any other waterway. Co-presenters: Lisa Tewksbury, Manager, tices, Cleveland, Ohio. The Ohio State Biological Control Laboratories, University University Urban Landscape Ecology Thought to be native to far northern re- of Rhode Island; Bruce Wenning, Land Program announces an interdisciplinary gions of Europe, Asia and probably North Stewardship Manager for Land’s Sake, Inc. conference and is soliciting abstracts for America, the geographical and ecologi- Invasive species are here to stay and contributed oral and poster sessions. cal range of this freshwater alga has been their numbers will only rise with increas- More information visit the official expanding in recent years. Didymo has ing globalization. But this doesn’t mean conference website: been spreading to diverse areas including defeat for landscapers and gardeners. www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/ulep/Conference.htm. British Columbia in Canada, the western What it does require is considering the US (especially Montana, South Dakota, dynamics of ecosystems and develop- November 3, 2007 – Connecting Chil- Idaho and Colorado), New Zealand, and ing methods for keeping aliens in check. dren and Nature: Exploring New Avenues then into the southeast US (Arkansas, In this program on problem insects and for Environmental Education Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia and weeds of New England, Lisa Tewksbury, Wheelock College, Boston, MA West Virginia). Didymo, a microscopic an entomologist and manager of the Uni- Conference sponsored by Mass Audubon alga, has also begun developing massive versity of Rhode Island’s Biological Control and Wheelock College. Keynote Speaker: blooms that can sometimes extend for Laboratories, will present a variety of Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the several kilometers of river. bio-control techniques, including her lab’s Woods. For information visit , current work with lily leaf beetle, birch http://www.massaudubon.org. The above procedures will also be leaf miner, Cyprus spurge, purple looses- effective against other unwanted trife, common reed, swallow-wort, as well November 7-9, 2007 – U.S. Green Build- organisms. as hemlock woolly adelgid. She’ll update ing Council Conference us on success stories and challenges and Chicago, Illinois at the new McCormick For more information on Didymo, visit when we can expect to see the results of Place West Building (2301 S. Lake Shore the US EPA Region 8 website: some of the newly introduced “fighters”. Drive, Chicago, IL 60616). For informa- http://www.epa.gov/region8/water/didymosphenia/ Bruce Wenning will present various meth- tion visit U.S. Green Building Council , or the Biosecurity New Zealand website: ods used and the successes and failures http://www.greenbuildexpo.org http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/didymo he experienced in removing invasive plants at an urban wildlife sanctuary.

(Although the preceding press release is events from the CT Department of Environmen- tal Protection and Vermont Agency of Sept. 2 – Champion Tree & Garden Tour announcements Natural Resources, this algae has been Bartlett Arboretum, Stamford, CT found in British Columbia in Canada, 203-322-6971 ELA-CALIFORNIA the western US (especially Montana, www.bartlettarboretum.org South Dakota, Idaho and Colorado), the September 11, 2007; 6-8pm. Monterey southeast US (Arkansas, Tennessee, North Sept. 7-9 – Nasami Farm (NEWFS) Fall Sale Bay Working Group Regular Meeting. Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia) Whately, MA Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th Ave., Santa and New Zealand, so we all need to be 413-397-9922 Cruz, CA 95062. This meeting repeats ev- aware: anglers, boaters, hikers.) www.newfs.org ery other month on the second Tuesday.

— 10— SAVE THESE DATES! March 6-8, 2008 Ecological Landscaping Association’s 2008 Winter Conference & Eco-Market- place. Great speakers, cutting-edge topics and a chance to network with like-mind- ed individuals! • MassMutual Center, Springfield, Massachusetts – a spacious, easy to reach, state-of-the art facility. • Thursday, March 6: Pre-Conference Keynote with John Todd GEI’s Blower Service • Friday & Saturday, March 7-8: Three Educational Tracks, demonstration workshops, live exhibit displays, and Erosion Control • Ecological Work the 5th Annual Eco-Marketplace Topdress • Seeding • Mulching

Visit www.ecolandscaping.org for up- GEI’s Compost Blends dated vendor and attendee information starting October 2007 and look for more EarthBoost™ FilterMitt Mix™ information in the Fall and Winter Issues PowerBoost Mulch™ of ELA’s member quarterly newsletter the GEI’s Compost Tea Blends “Ecological Landscaper”. See you there! Organic Maintenance Programs http://www.groundscapesexpress.com unclassifieds P.O. Box 737, Wrentham, MA 02093 WELL WATER CONNECTION, INC. Office (508) 384-7140 Fax (508) 384-0571 Well Water Connection, Inc. provides practical, cost-effective, and environmen- tally conscious solutions to water-related problems experienced by green industry professionals and their clients. Our unique approach combines professional project management with water, well, pump, Newsletter Editor Position Available filtration, and stain removal services. For immediate service or more information, ELA is looking for an Editor for the contact John Larsen at (978) 640-6900 or Ecological Landscaper, our quarterly publication [email protected]. • Duties: Sourcing and procuring articles, excerpts, and other content that may be of interest to our newsletter readers. Securing appro- priate permission to reprint articles when necessary. Develop and procure other content including events listings and resources.

• Work with Newsletter liaison to ensure all material is suitable for printing in the areas of grammar, coherence, style consistency, and content.

• Salaried position. Position available immediately.

Send resume or contact ELA, 1257 Worcester Road, #262, Framingham, MA 01701 or call the ELA Message Center at 617-436-5838 or email us at [email protected].

— 11— \ \ LANDSCAPERS EDUCATORS LANDOWNERS

Order Discover Ecological Landscaping As part of ELA’s outreach efforts, we are offering an opportunity to purchase the Discover Ecological Landscaping booklet in bulk. ELA members and professional colleagues have expressed interest in purchasing the booklet for distribution to their clients, workers, and attendees at their talks. We have heard your requests, and now the Discover Ecological Landscaping booklet is available to you!

Discover Ecological Landscaping is a 12-page booklet that will help you and your clients discover how easy and fun it is to landscape with ecology in mind – you may learn that you are doing some of these things already!

Bulk orders are sold in bundles of 100 booklets at a cost of $110 (includes sales tax, shipping, and handling). To order, please mail the completed form, with your check, payable to Ecological Land- scaping Association, to: ELA Attn: Discover Program 1257 Worcester Rd., #262 Framingham, MA 01701

X $110.00 = $ (enclosed) # of Bundles

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m PLEASE DO NOT SHARE MY CONTACT INFORMATION.

Thank you for your continued interest and support of ELA’s mission to educate, collaborate, and network. (revised 8/07)

— 12— SAMPLE

ecological landscaping

ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPING IS A METHOD of designing, building, and maintaining landscapes that considers the ecology of a site and creates gardens that enhance the surrounding environment for the benefit of humans and all other life in the ecosystem. When the earth is disturbed during the construction of buildings, homes, driveways, and roadways, the land is forever altered.Although the natural landscape can never be restored completely, with thoughtful attention to the site, ecological landscapers can create outdoor spaces that are practical, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing. Ecological landscaping strives to balance the building site with the natural environment. It draws upon the wisdom of natural systems. By studying the inter-relationships between living things, non-living things, and the environment, ecological landscapers can create a landscaped community that will conserve natural resources, preserve biodiversity, and protect the environment.With proper design and implementation, a healthy pattern begins to form with each component in the landscape; people, animals, plants, water, soil, insects, and wildlife, all interacting in a sustainable way. Conservation is an important part of ecological landscaping.The objectives of an ecological landscaper are to reduce water consumption, preserve water quality, prevent soil erosion, protect biodiversity, diminish the use of toxic pesticides, and minimize the use of non-renewable resources. By striving toward these goals, the ecological landscaper can create gardens that are both environmentally responsible and enjoyable to experience.

“We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us.When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect.” — ALDO LEOPOLD

— 13— SAMPLE how to choose an ecological landscaper

ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPERS ARE PROFESSIONALS who have an understanding of natural systems — geology, climate, soils, plants, and ecology. They incorporate this knowledge with landscape design, construction, and maintenance to make ecologically-sound decisions for your property.An ecological landscaper differs from a conventional landscaper through the approach, techniques, and products used while managing the soil, plant life, and landscape.They strive to create gardens in an environmentally responsible way with a goal to improve and enhance the site conditions for both humans and wildlife alike. An ecological landscaper begins with a study of the entire site… PLANT INVENTORY — Cataloging the plants that exist on the site SITE LOCATION — Hardiness zone, topography, microclimate, exposure to wind and sun, and availability of water SOIL SAMPLES — pH test, soil composition, texture, moisture retention, and fertility SITE HISTORY — Recurring problems in the landscape, wet areas, stressed plants, erosion Ecological landscapers use data from their site analysis to provide a design that is appropriate for the site.They will build healthy soil and choose plants that will grow and thrive, selecting for disease resistance, drought or wet tolerance, and non-invasiveness. To minimize the use of toxic chemicals, an ecological landscaper will proactively monitor plant material and soils for key pests and diseases that arise in stressed situations. Problems are addressed on a case-by-case basis using the solution with the least environmental impact.

Listen for these terms when Products used by an interviewing a landscaper… ecological landscape Soil tests professional… Site analysis Insecticidal soap Integrated pest management Horticultural oil Compost as soil amendment NEEM Endophytically enhanced grass seed Bt Mulches of leaf mold or compost Compost tea Low impact solutions Beneficial nematodes Least toxic pesticides Low nitrogen fertilizer

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