Spring Kickoff for Landscapers: Sustainable Landscapes Management

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Designing Pollinator Friendly Landscapes
Annie White, PhD. Lecturer, Plant and Soil Science Department, University of Vermont

Pollinator-friendly landscaping is a trend in the industry. Annie will discuss some of the top perennial picks for pollinators, creative and effective ways to use these plants in the landscape to help support a diversity of pollinators.

Including Native Shrubs in the Landscape
Jessica Lubell, PhD. Associate Professor, Horticulture
Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture University of Connecticut Extension

In this presentation, Jessica will discuss many native shrubs that are adaptable to tough conditions such as the readily available Rhus and Juniperus and lesser-known taxa like Aronia, Diervilla, Prunus, Myrica and Spirea. She will also discuss her wide-ranging research on this subject, including controlled studies on the adaptability of native shrubs, and improved methods of nursery propagation to increase the availability of native taxa.

Management of Common Diseases of Perennials in the Landscape
Angela Madeiras PhD., UMass Extension Plant Pathologist

Powdery mildew and fungal leaf spots are the most common diseases of perennials in the landscape.  Angie will address the biology of these diseases and discuss integrated pest management strategies for controlling them.

Managing Insect Pests of Trees and Shrubs Sustainably
Tawny Simisky, UMass Extension Entomologist

In this presentation, Tawny will discuss insect pests of woody ornamental plants of importance in Massachusetts and using integrated pest management concepts she will provide management suggestions for species including (but not limited) to winter moth, gypsy moth, emerald ash borer, and common piercing sucking insects.

Management of Invasive Plants in the Landscape
Randy Prostak, UMass Extension Weed Specialist

Invasive plants create unique challenges for weed management in the landscape. In this presentation, Randy will discuss how to identify invasive plants and provide tips and strategies including non-chemical methods and herbicide selection and timing.