APLD APLD California Chapter California Chapter January ...Friday, January 23, 2009 East Bay...

APLD California Chapter Upcoming Events

For more information about each event, please click on the dates below:

Tuesday, January 6, 2009 Peninsula District Board Meeting Peninsula District Wednesday, January 7, 2009 5th Annual Green Industry Blood Drive Sacramento District Wednesday, January 7, 2009 Landscape Design Track Seminars; Sac Valley Ldscape & Nursery Expo Sacramento District Thursday, January 8, 2009 California Chapter Board Meeting California Chapter Tuesday, January 13, 2009 Favorite Plants and Plant Swap East Bay District Friday, January 23, 2009 East Bay District Board Meeting East Bay District Wednesday, January 28, 2009 Peninsula District Meeting Peninsula District Tuesday, February 10, 2009 Legal Parameters for Landscape Designers East Bay District Wednesday, February 25, 2009

APLD California Chapter January 2009 Newsletter

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE By Maureen Decombe "Where have I been? Who am I? Where am I going?" These are the questions we may ask ourselves as the rush of the holidays subsides and we turn our attention to plans for the New Year. As we prepare our 2009 educational programs, assemble our new board, and thank our 2008 board for their service, the APLD California Chapter is also looking at these questions.

I was recently asked by a chapter leader from another part of the country about the beginnings of our chapter. Telling the story I have heard from my predecessors, of early meetings held in members' living rooms I marvel that less than ten years later, one of those founding mothers now produces this newsletter, which is distributed not only to hundreds of members in California, but to hundreds more Green Industry colleagues throughout the state, further spreading the word about the important role of professional landscape designers. Having come so far, before we gear up for next year's journey, I want to thank those individuals who did so much to get us here. Colleen Hamilton, our outgoing President, is a model for enthusiastic, supportive, and generous leadership. She led us through some uncertain times and laid the groundwork to put us on solid footing for 2009 to be a transformative year for our Chapter. Janet Bell, our Past President, steps off the board for a well-deserved break, after serving as former editor of the newsletter, past President of the Peninsula District during a time of unprecedented growth, and as President of the California Chapter. Joni Wilson, a past President of the Sacramento District, Secretary for two years, now steps into the role of Vice President. As she prepares to lead the Chapter in 2010, Joni continues to be a model for successful integration of her career as an interior designer as well as a licensed contractor, who, like Janet, has been active in CLCA, an important green

APLDCA Newsletter - January 2009 of 10

Peninsula District Meeting Peninsula District Our online Events calendar contains APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (25th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members.

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

industry allies and friends. Departing the board after many years of service is Shelley Somersett, who not only was an East Bay District President and Chapter President, but returned this year as Membership Chair. Shelley's accomplishments lay the foundation for our new Membership Chair, Janet Enright, to hit the ground running in 2009, as we promote the benefits of membership to Landscape Designers throughout the state. Susan Morrison is trading in her Treasurer's Reports for a new challenge worthy of her talents as a writer and marketing maven. Our Chapter will soon launch several exciting new venues for APLDCA designers to write and get published, bringing greater public recognition of the level of professionalism and wisdom within the ranks of our members. In doing so, Susan is delving into and bringing to fruition one tangible and important aspect of the preliminary PR and Marketing Plan laid out for us earlier in the year by Marcia Bloom, Peninsula District Past President. This effort by two "first career" marketing experts is a perfect example of APLD members in California reaping the benefits of the wealth of talent and know-how possessed by generous volunteers. None of that work would be possible without the support of our Technology Chair, whose dedication and countless hours developing and updating our website are singularly responsible for differentiating our chapter internationally as a leading professional landscape design organization. When we meet other APLD Chapter leaders throughout the country, the website is invariably the subject they want to discuss. "Your website is so amazing and beautiful. How did you do it?" Two words: Sharon Gibson. John Inglett has been a great supporter of APLD as the long-time treasurer of the Sacramento District. He has also played a key role in making the Sacramento Valley Landscape Expo a "don't miss" event for Landscape Designers from as far away as the Peninsula, by developing a compelling series of "Designer Track" classes. (See below for more information on the inspiring lineup for the 2009 Expo, and get inspired for the coming year.) In his role as Legislative Liaison, John will continue to be on hand to support us in our efforts to clarify and preserve our right to practice in the State of California. The evolution of the newsletter continues under the leadership of our Communications Chair, Li Vellinga, one of those founding mothers I mentioned earlier. A supporter of APLD in countless roles, Li has also been key in enabling our five Districts to communicate directly with their members and keep everyone up to date on the latest educational programs and events. Those district programs are without a doubt the reason for our Chapter's growth and success. Every month there are at least five APLD events throughout the state, where members gather to hear the latest on an enormous range of relevant topics. This wealth of offerings is the result of incredibly creative and innovative work done by our District and Regional


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volunteers. A tip of the hat and huge bouquet of thanks to our outgoing District Presidents: Sharon Petersen, East Bay District; Gail Fanning, North Bay District, Laura Schaub, Peninsula District, Alma Hecht, San Francisco District, and Deb McGinty, Sacramento District. Ramie Allard and Stephanie Bartron are building a team of incredible volunteers who are delivering programs in Southern California, and as potential District leaders emerge, we hope to welcome at least one new Southern California District this year. None of these programs would be possible were it not for the dedicated team of volunteers led by Karen Hunt, our Sponsorship Chair. Because of her amazing work, and the generosity of our Sponsors, we are today well positioned to look around and ask the next important question--"Where are we going?" We've begun to explore these ideas, and the previous several years have been about building capacity to take on the next challenge. This is a conversation that we want to share with all of our members. What's next? We will soon seek your input and help to lay the groundwork for a new page in our Chapter's history. Would you like to see us offer a regional conference? Launch an improved members-only discussion forum? Sponsor a series of classes to empower members to become leaders in a sustainable landscaping response to the serious water and environmental challenges of our time? We want you at the table to carry us forward into this new day. I am so grateful to be able to stand on the shoulders to those who have come before us, excited at the opportunities before us, and optimistic about our future (not to say we don't have some challenges) --more on that next month! I invite you to join the team as we roll up our sleeves and get to work to make this a great year for APLD in California. Where are we going? I'm not sure yet, but I am honored to be going there with you. Maureen Decombe President APLD California Chapter

Members' Section

Design classes at the Sacramento Valley Landscape & Nursery Expo Wednesday, January 7, 2009 www.sacvalexpo.com By Lisa Scarr and Michelle Helzer The APLD Sacramento Chapter is sponsoring the Landscape Design Track with five amazing classes


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APLD

California Chapter 2008

Board of Directors President: Maureen Decombe Vice President: Joni Wilson, APLD Immediate Past President: Colleen Hamilton Treasurer: Secretary: Communications Chair: Li Vellinga Website Chair: Sharon Gibson Membership Chair: Janet Enright Sponsorship Chair: Karen Hunt Public Relations Chair: Susan Morrison Legislation Chair: John Inglett

2008 District Representatives

East Bay District: Susanne Frey North Bay District: Cynthia Sumner

to start the new business year off energized. We are so excited about the level of our speakers and relevance of the content that we wanted to invite all California APLD members to attend this event. Admission to the trade show is free. The full day of seminars is only $25. with pre-registration or $35. at the door. The day starts off with Anne Chilcott of GardenSoft, an APLD California Gold Sponsor, who will show us ways to energize your presentations. You can be more organized and set your business apart with quality software programs. Next, we have The Entrepreneurial Artist, Jenifer Novak, who will share her secrets to building a successful design and artistic based business. Learn how to express your creativity AND build your business! Howard Formby of Nancy Goslee Powers & Associates will inspire us to design in balance with nature and personal aesthetics. He will discuss the six steps necessary to accomplish these goals. Finally, we will end the day with two classes by former Sunset Publishing contributor, Rene Klein, who will help you find your market niche and create an identity for your business. He will also discuss ways to get your work published. In his second seminar, Rene will explain the right ways to communicate effectively to create successful client relationships and maintain a positive environment throughout the completion of your projects. The Expo is held at the Sacramento Community Convention Center in beautiful and historic downtown Sacramento at 14th and J Street. Amtrak has a station a few blocks from the convention center with connections in many bay area cities. Please stop by the APLD booth on the tradeshow floor. We hope to see you there! For Registration and additional information please visit the Sacramento Valley Landscape and Nursery Expo website. www.sacvalexpo.com Also, at the Expo, APLD Sacramento and the green industry are hosting the 5th Annual Green Industry Blood Drive. We are asking for your assistance in helping those in need of emergency blood supplies. You can schedule an appointment in advance or just show up the day of the event. We need 2 donors every 15 minutes from 8am until noon to reach our goal. starting at 8 am to 12 noon. It is easy to give and should take about 30 minutes on the table to give a pint of blood. Please call John Inglett @ (916) 223-8172 for an appointment or for more information.

******************** Editor's Note: The article below was published in the May 2008 issue of the APLDCA newsletter. However, many members still haven't had a chance to visit the site or don't know about the YahooGroup, so it was suggested we'd publish it again. Enjoy!


Peninsula District: Glenn Hansen Sacramento District: Cheryl Buckwalter San Francisco District: Robin Alyse Doyle Southern California Region: Ramie Allard For a listing of our District Boards of Directors, please visit our website. For a complete listing of the APLD National Board of Directors, please visit: http://apld.org/contact/

APLD California Chapter Member FAQs

Are you a new member with lots of questions about how the APLD California Chapter works? Did you just renew and have a question about how your dues are used? Interested in starting a new district in your area, like the North Bay members recently did? Check out our California Chapter Membership FAQs.

Do you have more questions that aren't yet answered? Send an email to [email protected] to get your questions answered and added to the FAQs.

APLD

California Chapter Membership

Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues support for all chapter and district programs in California.

DO YOU YAHOO? Getting the most from the APLD CA Yahoo Group By Laura Schaub, 2008 Peninsula District President When we first start to practice landscape design, we are nothing but questions...where, what, who, how, when, why, huh??? And one of the great things about this profession, and those who practice it in California, is the wonderful sense of camaraderie and willingness to share knowledge and resources. One of the resources I most value these days is the APLD Yahoo Group we set up four years ago. On any given day I learn something new from my colleagues, or have an opportunity to share my own experience with others...and unlike an over-the-fence conversation, all of this knowledge is captured, for us to revisit, research and refer to. It is a living archive and a great resource...thanks to all of you who have made it so. For those of you who are not members, or new members, or even experienced members, let me introduce myself as one of the moderators for the APLD CA Yahoo group. We have been discussing Yahoo Group issues and processes and have agreed that there are a few things that we would like to communicate to the group regarding proper usage of the site, etiquette etc. So, in no particular order: MEMBERS & SPONSORS ONLY PLEASE: Please don't invite non-APLD members to join this great group...it is one of the benefits of membership, and those requests will be respectfully denied. We are in the process of purging the yahoo list at this time to remove names of non-renewing members, and will be doing so this time each year as renewals are completed. BEFORE YOU BEGIN: Please take some time to familiarize yourself with the group. Check out the website, see what files and pictures are available, and peruse the archives. http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/APLDCalifornia/ Most importantly, please fill out your profile with your first and last name, and for location, put your APLD district. A user name of "fluffykitty" and an email "[email protected]" fails to identify you to the group! Consider a username and email that identifies either you or your business. And while on that topic...make sure the email address you use for your business identifies you properly in your client's inbox...a professional proposal that appears to be sent by your spouse loses a bit of its edge. BEFORE YOU START A NEW TOPIC: Please search the archive to see if it has already been discussed (because sometimes it has been, at great length!) Simply go to the message page and enter a keyword or two in the search box ("acer griseum" or "metal edging" or "wrought iron contractor" etc.)


The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California District programs and meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available) -Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected]. Join the dynamic and informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!

Thank you to our Silver Sponsors

Belgard Hardscapes Broadmoor Landscape Supply

BEFORE YOU REPLY TO AN EMAIL: Take a moment to review the responses that may have already come in. If you reply to the latest one you will be adding to the chain in sequence, and may avoid repeating what someone else has already said. BEFORE YOU THANK SOMEONE FOR THEIR ANSWER: Gratitude is great, but please consider switching to that person's email directly... rather than sending another email to the whole group. Or better yet, wait until you ask your next question, and say something like "thanks to everyone who answered my question about no-mow lawns...today's question is... BEFORE YOU CHANGE THE SUBJECT: If you reply to an existing post, but wish to change the topic, please take a moment to update the subject line to reflect the new topic. And speaking of subject lines...keep them short and specific "source for pennisetum spathiolatum in the bay area" tells much more than "grass question" and helps us keep our communications clear. BEFORE YOU EXPRESS AN OPINION: Please read the "terms of use statement" at the group home page... Although we are a members-only group, we are not private. Your words can be forwarded to anyone. Remember that this group is statewide and includes designers, contractors, allied members and sponsors. We want our group to represent the highest level of professional communications at all times. Thoughts? Suggestions? Tips? Tricks? We plan to send out a monthly communication to group members with these guidelines and anything new that comes up...so please feel free to contact me ([email protected]) with any thoughts you might have about the group and its management. At some point the Yahoo Group will be integrated with our website...but for now, please help us keep this a great resource for the benefit of all of us.

**************

A warm welcome to new APLD California Chapter member:

First Name Last Name City Joined APLDMbr_CategoryJeannie Fitch Orinda 12/03/2008 Associate


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Graniterock Design Center John Deere Landscapes Pacific Nurseries Paver Depot

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Awards & Recognition

Have you won an award or been published in a magazine? Do you know of someone who is worthy of notice? Please consider sharing your news with other members! Click here to read guidelines and obtain a template for submitting articles to the newsletter.


Please visit our online Events calendar for the most up-to-date information on all APLD events, as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members.

Date Tuesday, January 6, 2009, 2:00 - 5:00 PM Title Peninsula District Board Meeting Sponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Laxmi Natarajan, [email protected] Description Peninsula District Board meeting, by invitation only.Cost None.Location Peninsula Building Materials Date Wednesday, January 7, 2009, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PMTitle 5th Annual Green Industry Blood Drive Sponsored by Sacramento DistrictContact John Inglett, 916.223.8172

Description

We are asking for your assistance for a successful Blood Drive Campaign to help benefit children, cancer survivors, accident victims and more in our community. Please call today to schedule an appointment in advance or just show up to give on the day of the event. We are looking to have 2 donors every 15 minutes from 8am to noon. It's easy to give, and should only take about 30 minutes on the table to donate a pint of blood. Please contact John Inglett for an appointment or for more information. Thanks in advance!

Location Sacramento Community Convention Center inside of the Sacramento Valley Landscape and Nursery Expo.

Date Wednesday, January 7, 2009, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Title Landscape Design Track Seminars--Sac Valley Landscape & Nursery Expo

Sponsored by Sacramento DistrictContact John Inglett, (916) 223-8172Additional Info www.sacvalexpo.com

Jump start 2009 with all the tools to take your design business to the next level at the Sacramento Valley


Description

Landscape & Nursery Expo on January 7, 2009. This highly sucessful annual event draws a tremendous 'trade' crowd. Highlighting this event are the Informational Seminars, with tracks geared to Landscape Design, Arborists, Landscape Trade, Nursery Trade, and Eco-Landscape. The APLD Sacramento Chapter is sponsoring the Landscape Design Track with five amazing classes. We are so excited about the level of our speakers and relevance of the content that we wanted to personally invite all California APLD members to this event. We are starting the day with Anne Chilcott of GardenSoft who will show us how to energize our presentations. Next, we have The Entrepreneurial Artist, Jenifer Novak, who will share her secrets to building a successful design business. Howard Formby of Nancy Goslee Powers & Associates will inspire us to design in balance with nature and personal aesthetics. Finally, we will end the day with two classes by former Sunset Publications contributor, Rene Klein, who will motivate and teach us how to market and communicate effectively. Registration and additional information can be found at www.sacvalexpo.com. The Expo is held at the Sacramento Convention Center in beautiful and historic downtown Sacramento. Amtrak has a station a few blocks from the Convention Center with connections in many Bay Area cities. Please stop by the APLD booth on the tradeshow floor. We hope to see you there!

Cost $25.00 with registration by January 3. $35.00 at the door.

Location Sacramento Convention Center, 14th & J St., Sacramento, CA

Date Thursday, January 8, 2009Title California Chapter Board Meeting Sponsored by California ChapterContact Joni Wilson, Chapter Secretary, [email protected]

Description

Regularly-scheduled planning and coordination meeting of the APLD California Chapter Board of Directors. Chapter members and sponsors are welcome to attend these meetings, but due to limited space, arrangements must be made prior to the meeting by contacting the Chapter Secretary.

Cost None.

Location Location varies. Contact Chapter Secretary for further information.

Date Tuesday, January 13, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Favorite Plants and Plant Swap Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected]

We are planning a great meeting in January, including a plant exchange, and would like to encourage all members to participate. First, if you have too much of something in your garden, why not pot some up for the January meeting? Everyone who contributes a plant can plan on taking home a new one from someone else, and it should be great fun! In addition, we plan to have a session where we share


Description

information about our 5 favorite and 5 least-favorite plants. Mary Fisher, our 2008 Membership Chair, has been doing this for years with her design group and has found it extremely beneficial. Mary says, "This is a fantastic way to expand your plant palette! Learn from other experienced designers who have put plants to the test. My design group has been assembling lists like this for years, and every time we find them to be extremely helpful. And, as a maintenance gardener/designer, I'll take any opportunity to share my least favorites with other designers!" - Mary Fisher The Word document attached to this calendar entry (online) can be used as a template to list your favorites and not-so favorites. Since not everything that thrives in Berkeley will thrive in Danville and vice versa, please include the city or area(s) where you've had experience with each plant. In addition, please list WHY you like or dislike each plant. Photographs, if you have them, will be extremely helpful as well. You can imbed photos directly in the Word document or send them separately. To give you a flavor of what we're shooting for, Mary Fisher has kindly submitted her most recent list (also attached). If enough members participate in this initiative, we hope to eventually create a CD that could be used as a fund raiser for our District. So PLEASE send us your favorites just as soon as possible, so they can be assembled into a presentation for this upcoming meeting. Your contributions to this effort may be sent to Lorraine Edel at [email protected]. Don't miss this fun kick-off for 2009!!

Cost Members: $5.00. Visitors: $15.00. Students with id: $10.00. ($5.00 is for room rental).

Location Veterans Memorial Building, 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette.

Date Friday, January 23, 2009, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM Title East Bay District Board Meeting Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary, [email protected]

Description

Regularly-scheduled planning and coordination meeting of the APLDCA East Bay District Board of Directors. District members and sponsors are welcome to attend these meetings, but due to limited space, arrangements must be made prior to the meeting by contacting the District Secretary

Cost None.

Location Location varies. Contact District Secretary for further information.

Date Wednesday, January 28, 2009, 3:00 - 6:00 PM Title Peninsula District MeetingSponsored by Peninsula District Contact Laxmi Natarajan, [email protected]

Description

The Peninsula District typically meets the fourth Wednesday of each month, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. Location will vary. Details on each meeting will be posted to the online calendar as they become available.RSVP encouraged, but not required. Free for all APLD


Cost members, $10 for non-members and $5 for students with student IDs.

Location Varies. Date Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 4:00 - 6:00 PM Title Legal Parameters for Landscape Designers Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected] Info http://www.latc.ca.gov/

Description

Guest speaker Linda Gates of the Landscape Architects Technical Committee (LATC) will address various questions regarding landscape designers' right to practice and how we are affected by the Landscape Architects Practice Act of California. Members with specific topics or concerns that they would like addressed should email those questions to Sharon Gibson at [email protected]. All questions will be forwarded to Linda in advance of the meeting.



Date Wednesday, February 25, 2009, 3:00 - 6:00 PM Title Peninsula District MeetingSponsored by Peninsula District Contact Laxmi Natarajan, [email protected]

Description

The Peninsula District typically meets the fourth Wednesday of each month, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. Location will vary. Details on each meeting will be posted to the online calendar as they become available.

Cost RSVP encouraged, but not required. Free for all APLD members, $10 for non-members and $5 for students with student IDs.

Location Varies.

For information on membership: www.apldca.org/AboutAPLD.aspx For newsletter or calendar submissions: www.apldca.org/NewsResources.aspx

For other inquiries, see the contact information on our website: www.apldca.org/Contacts.aspx

P.O. Box 778, San Carlos, CA 94070.



For more information about each event, please click on the dates below:

Tuesday, February 10, 2009 Legal Parameters for Landscape Designers East Bay District Tuesday, February 17, 2009 Intro to Google's Free Design Software--SketchUp San Francisco District Wednesday, February 25, 2009 Speak Up, Break Out & Brainstorm Peninsula District Wednesday, February 25, 2009 The Art of the Garden Sacramento District Friday, March 6, 2009 East Bay District Board Mtg. East Bay District Tuesday, March 10, 2009 New Plant Introductions East Bay District Wednesday, March 25, 2009 Peninsula District Meetings Peninsula District Wednesday, March 25, 2009 APLD Designer Workshop: Best of Sacramento Sacramento District

Our online Events calendar contains APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (25th of each

APLD California Chapter February 2009 Newsletter

In Caterpillar, They Call It Diapause In another life, I was a bug counter for the USDA. I counted Gypsy Moths, from tiny first instar caterpillars still floating on their threads to adult female moths laying their eggs. The team I worked with then watched known egg masses to monitor the emergence of larvae in order to conduct various biological control experiments and population surveys. Sometimes, depending on the weather, the larvae didn't hatch out when expected.

Some were lost to parasites or predators, but the remaining eggs were healthy. They were just in a state of diapause, or dormancy, in response to a predictable cycle of unfavorable environmental conditions. This is a survival mechanism of many organisms throughout the plant and animal world. In our gardens we recognize this same type of dormancy. Deciduous trees and shrubs, their colorful leaves swirling through the October wind, signal their long winter sleep in a blaze of autumn glory. As a Maryland gardener, I used this annual dormant period to learn new things, travel, visit family, and plan for the coming year. Because it was predictable, I planned ahead financially, knowing that my income-generating activities would be limited to those short, bright, sunny days on which the pruning took place. When I moved to California and began my new career as a garden designer, the loss of this dormant period was one of the hardest things to adjust to. Hard-wired to enjoy the down time between December and February, I also missed watching the slow emergence of spring through the melting snow. Here we think of the rainy season as a slow period. I don't know about you, but in past years I have not had a moment to slow down, rain or shine. There was always something to do, a new client on the line, a garden being planted earlier than planned because the rains hadn't lingered, the phone ringing again on a Sunday... I know of no term for this "unplanned non-dormancy", except perhaps burnout time, but there is one for unplanned dormancy: Consequential Dormancy, a state of dormancy entered into after or during an

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

By Maureen Decombe

APLDCA Newsletter - February 2009 Page 1 of 11

month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members.

OUR GOLD SPONSORS



Petaluma, CA 94925 707-778-0136

unpredicted period of adversity. Some folks have long predicted we couldn't keep up the economic pace that led to the housing boom, the blossoming of our profession, and the constantly ringing phone. Few of us could have known how hard this downturn would hit our industry. If there were ever a case of consequential dormancy, this is it. But it's important to remember that this is temporary, it is cyclical, and it is a natural response to the unbridled growth we've experienced. How we handle this dormancy will determine whether we emerge fresh and healthy to begin again, or become casualties of the economy. One of the benefits of dormancy is that it gives organisms--and we are all organisms--a chance to take advantage of new opportunities at the beginning or end of a dormant cycle. People who make greater use of resources during key periods emerge from a dormant cycle healthier than before, better able to thrive as conditions improve. One of the most important resources available to us is the camaraderie of our APLD cohorts. In anticipation of the economic recovery, we can team up during this slow period to leverage existing resources in order to emerge stronger, to more efficiently and profitably address our clients' needs. We can look back on our previous work, interview past clients to ask what worked for them, and determine how to improve our service. So when the phone doesn't ring, visit each one of your installed gardens to assess your plant choices or email clients with suggestions for un-addressed maintenance needs. This will remind clients that you care, that you take your work seriously, that you are a professional. And hopefully, they will take note and tell their friends. If you're like me, and I hope in this regard you're not, you may have been avoiding some loose ends. The punch list that was never quite finished to your satisfaction, the garden with the Penstemons that needed replacing ... I'm making it a priority to complete such items to really get the job done, and done well. My other goal this year is to do something I've always wanted to do, but have never had the time: I'm going to get certified. It's difficult to turn down paying clients in order to take time to gather all the required materials and get them in to the APLD Certification Committee. This dormant period now offers me an opportunity to pursue a long term intention and to enjoy the satisfaction of revisiting some of my favorite gardens and clients. Who will take the Certification Challenge with me during this period of dormancy? I look forward to greeting all of you as you emerge from this quiet period with a renewed passion for gardens and design, and hearing how you made use of the resources available to you. Spring is coming, and summer is not far away.

Maureen Decombe President APLD California Chapter


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NEWS FROM THE BOARD & DISTRICTS

CHAPTER BOARD POSITION AVAILABLE By Janet Bell The Chapter Board had its first meeting this month, and all Board positions are now filled except for Treasurer. The Board has many goals for the coming year. By increasing our visibility as an organization - both to potential clients and to designers - we will all benefit. A great New Year's accomplishment is our new district in Southern California. Participating on the Board is a great way to contribute to your profession, your career and your personal growth. Please consider participating. The following is a description of the Treasurer position: Keeps detailed bookkeeping, financial and banking records, signs checks, works with the President and Vice President to create annual budget projections, and assesses funds needed. Deposits dues and other funds received from APLDTM and District Treasurers and disburses funds to Districts. Presents quarterly financial reports at Board meetings. Provides reports to APLDTM and Districts as required. All board members have the opportunity to be a part of the decisions of the Board and the direction APLD will take in our state. Call me if you have any general questions or questions about this position. Janet Bell, 650.369.3400, [email protected]

*****

LOS ANGELES is Feeling "District-y" Watch this space next month to learn more about the budding Los Angeles

District. Congratulations, LA, we thought you were looking a little district-y lately!

*****

SACRAMENTO DISTRICT By Colleen Hamilton, Patricia St John and Maureen Decombe

The APLD Sacramento District invested lots of hard work in


________________

SILVERADO www.silveradoonline.com ________________

APLD

California Chapter 2009 Board of

Directors President: Maureen Decombe Vice President: Joni Wilson, APLD Immediate Past President: Colleen Hamilton Treasurer: Open Position - Please contact: [email protected] Secretary: Tina Roushall Communications Chair: Li Vellinga Newsletter / Editor: Katey Mulligan Li Vellinga Calendar: Sharon Gibson Website / Technology: Sharon Gibson

the CLCA Northern California Expo held on January 7, 2009. The booth layout was very clever and our unique water feature was the show-stopper. A big thanks to everyone who helped make the Expo a successful day, especially Soleil Tranquilli for organizing the booth and Gary Kernick for his fountain design. Along with our outstanding APLD booth, the district presented a great track of design related classes that were motivating and educational. We left the event with more knowledge and a clearer focus. Classes included:

1. Anne Chilcott, Director of Operations for Garden Soft, emphasized the importance of building rapport with clients utilizing the Garden Soft programs of Garden Works and Plant Master. She presented tips on how to attach personal photos of gardens and plants to these programs to show clients.

2. Jennifer Novak with Novak Art Studio stressed in her class the importance of tapping into our creativity so it can be fully expressed in our gardens and businesses. She asked, "Are you coming from your heart, or coming from your head?...and if I am in my head, can I drop down and be in my heart, be present, be in the moment". When driving to a new site, to a new project, think, "What fun can we have here?

3. Howard Formby of Nancy Gosslee Power & Assoc. asked "How do we put back into the landscape what we've lost? How do we look at the future? What do we do to landscape for a living environment?" He showed us meadows and chicken coops that were popular in Southern California and shared his preference for Carex glauca over Carex pansa in meadows.

4. Rene Klein of RLC Marketing Communications presented the last two classes. He advised us to determine our identity and be consistent with the look. Ask yourself "How do you stand out? Do you have a new twist, a new approach?" Research new trends, explore current needs,

Picture of the Sacramento District Board. To see a picture of the APLD booth, click here.


Membership Chair: Janet Enright Sponsorship Chair: Karen Hunt Public Outreach Coordinator: Susan Morrison

2009 District and Regional Council:

East Bay District President: Susanne Frey North Bay District President: Cynthia Sumner Peninsula District President: Glenn Hansen Sacramento District President: Cheryl Buckwalter San Francisco District President: Robin Alyse Doyle Southern California Region: Ramie Allard For a listing of our District Boards of Directors, please visit our website. For a complete listing of the APLD National Board of Directors, please visit: http://apld.org/contact/



Do you have more questions that aren't yet answered? Send an email to

develop your niche and communicate it so people will think, "I know what will happen when I choose you." Both verbal and non-verbal communications are important and are absorbed through different processes: visual, auditory and kinesthetic. Get to know your audience, plan ahead and establish rapport.

The day at the expo also provided:

CEUs for attending certified designers Opportunities for members and non-members to connect Meeting with Exhibitors such as nurseries, lighting companies, stone-yards, equipment companies, irrigation companies and many other industry businesses Opportunities to learn about and meet with other educational groups

A chance to network with our 2008/09 APLD sponsors who also had booths at the expo:

Delta Bluegrass John Deere Landscapes Vectorworks Landmark by Nemetschek North America Pottery World Sierra View Nursery Unique Lighting Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting

The Sacramento District plans an even bigger presence for the 2010 CLCA Northern California Expo. What a wonderful way to build APLD and our design businesses! Words from our new Chapter President: "The inspiring talk on school gardens left me energized and excited about a pro bono project our company has taken on. There were top-notch vendors with some of the latest technology and plants, and the APLD Sacramento District did us all proud with an incredibly creative and welcoming display. Thank you to the organizers of the Expo for putting together such a terrific program!"

Sponsor's Corner

Many thanks to all our Sponsors for your support and generosity! As part of the sponsorship program,you are invited to write an article about your company. For more details, please contact us. GOLD SPONSOR:

Bamboo Pipeline is California's #1 Green Goods Supplier APLD Gold Sponsor Bamboo Pipeline was ranked 25th fastest growing Environmental Services ("Green") Company, as noted in September survey for Inc. 500--the 500 fastest growing privately-held US companies. Responsible for its 163.4% growth over 2 years is the unique


[email protected] to get your questions answered and added to the FAQs.

APLD


Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues support for all chapter and district programs in California. The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California District programs and meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available) -Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected].

method Bamboo Pipeline uses to sell and distribute horticultural products to contractors via Internet, fax and phone. Bamboo Pipeline streamlined its horticultural wholesale distribution system to deliver large amounts of high-quality plants and trees to contractors within days, if not hours, of order placements. Bamboo Pipeline President Matt Fay says the company also is the largest seller of plants in the U.S. using a web-based ordering system. According to Fry and Matt Cornell, who formed the company in 2000, Bamboo Pipeline stands apart from its competitors to deliver to landscape professionals the best available plants in the Western U.S. by combining new internet technologies with SAP enterprise software and outstanding customer service. Bamboo Pipeline's website allows contractors to research and select the market's highest quality plants and landscaping materials. The SAP-enabled system tracks more than 10,000 plants and trees daily; it provides buyers real-time data that can be sorted by cost, quality and past performance of vendors, resulting in the most complete resource for "green goods" in America. Contact: Mike Cornell, Bamboo Pipeline, 805-764-2600, [email protected]

***** GOLD SPONSOR: JOHNSON POOL AND SPA IS GOING GREEN: By Matt Perezchica - General Manager: click here for full text. If being GREEN in the pool and spa industry sounds strange, than call us crazy! We at Johnson Pool and Spa are doing our part to help the environment by applying GREEN philosophies to all aspects of our business. From recycling paper and plastics to plumbing pools that are hydraulically sound, we're making a difference for future generations. In the construction division, all our pools and spas are plumbed to peak efficiency by our in-house team. With proper pipe sizing we can minimize the horse power needed to move water through the filtration system, resulting in lower energy bills. Our service and repair department is equally committed to helping the environment. We recycle all cardboard, plastic buckets and metals, and install many of the same energy efficient equipment we use on our new pools. And our retail store offers many of the most energy efficient products on the market. One example is Caldera Spas which has re-engineered its spa lines to comply with the California Energy Commission's Title 20 rigorous standards. If we and other businesses make the effort to change behavior and sell environmentally safe products, together we can promote energy efficient and reduce waste. Visit us at www.johnsonpoolandspa.com; for more specific information about our upgrades, contact Matt Perezchica, 707-837-0866, [email protected].


Join the dynamic and informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!


Belgard Hardscapes Broadmoor Landscape Supply Calstone





*****

BRONZE SPONSOR: Shamrock Introduces...

The Perfect Lawn for Northern California Shamrock Materials is now the exclusive North Bay distributor for an exciting new environmentally sensitive alternative to the traditionally perfect lawn - ItalGreen All-Weather Turf. Shamrock is proud to present this novel product that will help to conserve water and other natural resources.

ItalGreen is the greenest and most technically advanced alternative to sod. Natural grass requires constant maintenance and is highly resource and chemical (fertilizer, pesticides, herbicides) intensive. Developed in Europe to meet the most stringent environmental standards and the rigorous performance requirements of professional soccer fields, ItalGreen resolves all of the negative, toxic aspects of conventional artificial turf, which often utilizes reclaimed rubber as an infill material. The ItalGreen system combines the softest, most natural and luxurious turf with a real green breakthrough - the proprietary ItalGreen Geo-Fill(r) organic infill material. Geo-Fill is odorless, non-abrasive, and remains much cooler in the sun than conventional infill materials. Proper installation is key to enjoying all the benefits of ItalGreen. To insure customer satisfaction, Shamrock offers a comprehensive training and certification program for installers. ItalGreen products are only available thru these Shamrock-Certified Installers. SHAMROCK MATERIALS INC. For More Information Contact: Carol Green 707 477-4336 [email protected]

Members' Section

GREEN THEMES - Groups that support Sustainable Businesses:

The San Francisco Chronicle on 4 January 2009 published an editorial that suggested ways we all could support a more durable local economy by promoting locally owned sustainable businesses. Following is a list of links to existing organizations; many other cities and communities also are


initiating similar campaigns so check yours!

sfloma.org: San Francisco Locally Owned Merchants Alliance advances a citywide "buy local" campaign.

Calhcn.org: California Healthy Communities Network (Napa) helps communities enact smart growth policies and prevent unwanted big-box development.

nciba.com: Northern California Independent Booksellers Association (San Francisco), a regional trade group, supports independent retail book selling.

livingeconomies.org: Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (San Francisco) promotes sustainable business practices and green building internationally.

ibuypetaluma.org: Petaluma Independent Business Alliance promotes the cultural and economic benefits of doing business locally.

hometownpeninsula.org: Hometown Peninsula Independent Business Alliance (Menlo Park) engages in education and advocacy to support independent businesses in San Mateo County.

sustainablenovato.org: Sustainable Novato encourages local business ownership among its broader sustainability goals.

shopoakland.com: Shop Oakland/Support Oakland Grown Businesses & Artists campaigns promote Oakland's entrepreneurs.

More to come: Berkeley and Richmond, among other cities, are developing buy-local campaigns.

Above provided by Jeff Milchen who co-founded the American Independent Business Alliance (amiba.net), a nonprofit organization helping more than 50 community organizations sustain locally owned business and vital local economies.

To read the complete article, click on:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/01/04/INA8150K55.DTL;

"The booth layout was very clever and our unique water feature was the show-stopper." To go back to read about the Sacremento Expo, click here.



MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Gardens by three long-time APLD California designers, Kelly Bowman Greenwood, Katey Mulligan and Patricia St. John, were featured in a new Sunset Books


publication released this month: Backyards: A Sunset Design Guide by Bridget Biscotti Bradley. Our designers were part of an eight-member panel of design and building professionals from across the U.S.A. whose gardens provided case studies for eco-friendly materials, water-wise plants, outdoor kitchens and much more. The book features design tips and advice for homeowners considering projects. Copies of the book can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/9m8klo or at

your local bookstore.



Date Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 4:00 - 6:00 PM Title Legal Parameters for Landscape Designers Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected] Info http://www.latc.ca.gov/

Description

Guest speaker Linda Gates of the Landscape Architects Technical Committee (LATC) will address various questions regarding California landscape designers' right to practice and how we are affected by the state's Landscape Architects Practice Act. Linda has been a licensed landscape architect since 1979 and has served on the LATC for many years. She will address many of the legal constraints within which we need to build our design practices, including the rationale for these parameters. Linda has requested that we submit questions in advance, so please email those topics or concerns you would like addressed to Katie Creighton at [email protected]. Katie will compile your questions and forward them to Linda. Please submit your items no later than February 2, 2009. This event will undoubtedly be highly informative, so mark your calendars now.


Location Veterans Memorial Building, 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette. Date Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM Title Intro to Google's Free Design Software - SketchUpSponsored by San Francisco DistrictContact Cynde AvéLallemant, [email protected]

APLD SF's Robin Doyle and Cynde AvéLallemant will discuss


Description

how landscape designers can use SketchUp to quickly visualize their design concepts spatially -- as part of the studio design process and/or for client presentations. We'll bring in our laptops, project images onto a big screen, walk you through some software basics, and show samples of our own 3D work.

Cost Location County Fair Building, Golden Gate Park, 9th Ave. & Lincoln

Way, San Francisco Date Wednesday, February 25, 2009, 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Title Speak Up, Break Out & Brainstorm Sponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain, [email protected]

Description

This is an interactive meeting where members will participate and interact in small groups to discuss and exchange ideas on how to develop and build "Successful Partnerships" in the landscape industry.

Cost Members - Free, Non-Members $10.00. Location GraniteRock, 1505 South De Anza Boulevard, Cupertino, CA

95014, Tel: 408.996.4500. Date Wednesday, February 25, 2009, 5:30 - 8:30 Title The Art of the GardenSponsored by Sacramento District

Contact Gary Kernick, (916) 488-3374. Advanced payment due by Mon. Feb. 23rd to Sac APLD 3755 Esperanza Sacramento, CA 95864

Description

Please join us for an exploration of the Art of The Garden. The Blue Line Gallery provides us with a stylish setting for an evening of mingling with fellow designers and landscape professionals while exploring the magical effect color creates in the garden. Local Artist and Art Professor, Kathy Noonan will guide us through the subtleties of color combinations and how color affects the mood of the garden. Kathy's artworks featuring shadows and contrasts will also be explored. Learn visual tricks of manipulating the garden space & experience through color. 5:30PM--Gallery reception with artful appetizers & wine tasting. 6:30PM-7:30PM--Color theory seminar with Kathy Noonan.

Cost

APLD/Blue Line members: $20 in advance, $30 at the event. Non-members: $30 in advance, $40 at the event. RSVP and advance payment due by Monday, February 23rd. Mail payments to SacAPLD, 3755 Esperanza Dr., Sacramento, CA 95864

Location Blue Line Gallery, 405 Vernon Street, Suite 100, Roseville, CA 95678

Date Friday, March 6, 2009, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM Title East Bay District Board MeetingSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary, [email protected]

Description

Regularly-scheduled planning and coordination meeting of the APLDCA East Bay District Board of Directors. District members and sponsors are welcome to attend these meetings, but due to limited space, arrangements must be made prior to the meeting by contacting the District Secretary.

Cost None.



Date Tuesday, March 10, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title New Plant IntroductionsSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected]

Description

Just in time for Spring! This meeting will feature a New Plant Introductions talk by a representative of Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery, an APLD California Chapter Bronze Sponsor. Please watch this space for further details.

Cost $5.00. Visitors: $15.00. Students with id: $10.00. ($5.00 is for room rental).

Location Veterans Memorial Building, 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette. Date Wednesday, March 25, 2009, 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM Title Peninsula District MeetingsSponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Laxmi Natarajan, [email protected]

Description

The Peninsula District typically meets the fourth Wednesday of each month, from 3:30 to 6:00 PM. Location will vary. Please check individual entries in this calendar for specific information on each meeting.


Location Varies. Date Wednesday, March 25, 2009, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Title The APLD Designer Workshop: Best of SacramentoSponsored by Sacramento District

Contact Contact Gary Kernick for more info. RSVP by Monday, March 23rd. (916) 488-3374 or RSVP to [email protected]

Description

Best of Sacramento APLD! Bring your hot tips to share with fellow designers... Where is your favorite place to get inspired? Best website? Coolest gardening tool? Hottest new plant? UC DAVIS ALL STARS - The Arboretum presents the Top 100 Plants for the Central Valley and where to buy them. BOOK SWAP - Bring those cool garden books that you no longer use and swap for something new! DESSERT PARTY -Bring your best sweet treat to share. (Doesn't have to be homemade). Junette and Kathy will compete in the Best Carrot Cake Contest. RSVP by Monday, March 23 to [email protected].

Cost $5 for APLD Members and $15 for non-members. Location Sierra 2, located in Curtis Park near 24th & Broadway with

easy freeway access and ample free parking






Friday, March 6, 2009 East Bay District Board Mtg. East Bay District Tuesday, March 10, 2009 Working with Stone East Bay District Tuesday, March 17, 2009 Marketing & Communications Los Angeles District Tuesday, March 17, 2009 Savvy New Business & Marketing Strategies San Francisco District March 18, 2009 Peninsula District Mtg at the SFFGS Peninsula District March 2009 (tbd) North Bay District Trip to the SFFGS North Bay District Wednesday, March 25, 2009 APLD Designer Workshop: Best of Sacramento Sacramento District Saturday, April 4, 2009 Theodore Payne Native Plant Garden Tour Southern California Region Tuesday, April 8, 2009 Making It in a Recession North Bay District Tuesday, April 14, 2009 Guidelines for Sustainable Design

APLD California Chapter March 2009 Newsletter

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE By Maureen Decombe

Chugging Along in Chicago Flying back from the second annual APLD Chapter Symposium in Chicago last week provided a rare opportunity for me to sit quietly for a few hours, watch the sky as we left the snow behind and follow the sunset through the western skies. My thoughts centered mainly

on the benefit of APLD again making the investment to gather together the 17 chapter leaders to share ideas and information on a personal level. The goal is to broaden our understanding of the organizational structure; review changes underway at the APLD International level; improve benefits and communications; and convey some of the challenges of delivering top-notch programs and services to members within the limitations of our funding and volunteer "staff." As we work in tandem to achieve the same goals, opportunities abound for our California Chapter to strengthen ties and communication with the larger organization. Many also long for change that lags behind our desires and enthusiasm. This brought to mind a comment from Marcia Bloom, a past president of the Peninsula District, who formulated a great analogy for how the local and international levels of our organization appear to function and respond to feedback and conditions. Marcia referred to the districts as sleek sailboats, ready to change direction with the wind and address obstacles and opportunities with a small, well-oiled, efficient crew. Everyone can see what everyone else is doing, and the responsiveness of the boat depends directly on the agility and performance of the crew. She characterized our international organization as a much larger ship that takes longer to change direction, as it follows an itinerary that has ramifications for a growing membership. Less able to navigate as nimbly as local districts, the ship

APLDCA Newsletter - March 2009 Page 1 of 13

East Bay District Saturday, April 18, 2009 Sonoma Road Trip Sacramento District Tuesday, April 21, 2009 Plant Extravaganza San Francisco District Wednesday, April 22, 2009 Designer/Contractor Forum Peninsula District Tuesday, April 28, 2009 Native Plants for Clay San Francisco District Please scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of these events. And be sure to visit our online Events calendar for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (25th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members.

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

needs a wider arc to pursue a new goal. At the symposium, it became clear that the chapters are tugboats that support and steer the larger ship into the harbor. We're reliable, perhaps a bit stubby. One tug cannot do it alone, but when joined by others, we serve an important role: shaping and refining the goals of the international organization; channeling member feedback to the decision-makers and staff; and keeping a watch on the waters surrounding us. We're also at the ready to assist a sailboat that may have lost its wind. In hearing feedback, requests and suggestions of other chapter leaders throughout the country, I got a strong sense that the California Chapter is joined by many other muscular tugboats, all chugging along toward the common goal of instilling a renewed direction, purpose and passion for APLD. As a result of our work on APLD International committees, matters from the practical and administrative to the big picture direction are being addressed. On the practical side, we gained assurances of:

a vastly improved on-line member renewal process to include immediate, secure, credit card processing; an organization-wide commitment to sustainability; expanded lines of communication that were once unavailable to us.

The organization as a whole has responded with vigor and enthusiasm to the possibilities of traveling together, as we maneuver through unpredictable waters. We marvel at the achievements of our nimble districts, and celebrate the formation of the new Los Angeles District. We hope to officially welcome LA with a feature in next month's issue. Many exciting developments are in the works, at every level of the organization. I encourage each of you to invite new members to join our skilled crew to steer our ship to shore. This year, we celebrate APLD's 20th Anniversary with a fantastic lineup of speakers and gardens in Portland and a magical tour of Italy. We lucky few in California continue to benefit from engaging and informative monthly presentations. One of the most inspiring messages I heard from our new APLD International President, Judy Nauseef, was a deep commitment to service, and I look forward to sharing more with you about the shape this will take. Judy will visit us to help judge the APLD award at the San Francisco Flower and Garden Show this month; she is joined on the board by our own Patricia St. John as President-Elect, and Debby Ruskin as Treasurer. Colleen Hamilton, our APLDCA Immediate Past President, was enthusiastically appointed to the new APLD International Board position of Sponsorship Chair. With these three California champions at the Captain's Table, we not only have a wonderful year ahead, we also will set the course for a great third decade of APLD membership.




Petaluma, CA 94925 707-778-0136

New Earth Nursery

Chugging along 'til next month... Maureen Decombe President, APLD California Chapter

News From The Board and Districts

PENINSULA DISTRICT: Please join us Saturday 2 May - We Need You Real Bad! CLCA-SFBA Chapter Charity Project James Walker, Landsculpt Gardens Now more than any time in recent memory, it is important for all Americans to come together to generously give to those less fortunate. With open hearts let us share what we can and simultaneously, lift our own spirits. As current economic times continue to reduce almost everyone's cash reserves, we in the Bay Area green industry can offer our time, our experience, our resources and our skills to strengthen and support our community. Contributing our skills freely often is more gratifying than having to charge for them! Last year, my first Chapter Project experience, was liberating and fun, working alongside CLCA professionals for Achievekids Palo Alto. Continuing the tradition of the CLCA-SFBA Chapter Project gives each of us the opportunity to transform a piece of neglected earth into a beautiful, inviting sanctuary for deserving children. We invite all our APLD colleagues to SAVE THE DAY - and join your local CLCA members to Build a Garden in a Day. This year's project, on SATURDAY 2 MAY, will be even more rewarding, as public resources shrink. Mark your calendar for Saturday 2 May - and watch this space for details.

***** PENINSULA DISTRICT: CLCA GARDEN TOUR The CLCA-San Francisco Bay Area Chapter seeks a volunteer to coordinate its annual garden tour scheduled for May 16 (this date may be flexible). The daylong event showcases award-winning gardens, many designed by APLD members, and commercial properties designed and/or maintained by CLCA members. Early morning coffee + muffins at the meeting point (bus pick-up) will get you started, with a break later for lunch. This is a great opportunity for APLD to support our CLCA


______________

________________

SILVERADO www.silveradoonline.com ________________

_______________

colleagues, several of whom install our designs and are APLD members as well. Please consider this opportunity - perhaps share the responsibilities with a friend/designer - while exploring some dazzling gardens. For more information, contact: Charlene Ott, (650)948-7858. Rick Camin, [email protected] or Janet Bell, (650)924-0302, [email protected]

***** APLD INTERNATIONAL: Position Open at APLD International Interested in broadening your communications skills? Consider joining the APLD National Committee. After many years as Chair of Communications, Daniel Lowry has resigned. Daniel was responsible for editing and helping to revamp The Designer.

Please give this position your serious consideration and send your submission to Martin at [email protected].

Sponsor's Corner

LANDSCAPING WITH NATIVE SOD Throughout California there is a growing movement to restore areas to the grasses that are known to be "native" to our state. The limited amount of seed in natural settings spurred interest in the development of California native grasses as a seed production crop. Recognizing the growing concern over the invasion of

non-native grasses and weeds into areas that are seeded with California native grasses, Delta Bluegrass Company has stepped forward to be one of the first to develop Native Grasses in sod form. Now entering our third planting, Delta Bluegrass has expanded acreage and conducted studies on drought tolerance, grow out (non-maintained) versus mowed (maintained) data and overall establishment/growth habit of the plants (dormancy). The species used in the mixes stays green year


________________

APLD California Chapter

2009 Board of Directors

President:

Maureen Decombe

Vice President: Joni Wilson, APLD

Immediate Past

President: Colleen Hamilton

Treasurer:

Open Position - Please contact: [email protected]

Secretary:

Tina Roushall

Communications Chair: Li Vellinga

Newsletter / Editor:

Katey Mulligan Li Vellinga

Calendar:

Sharon Gibson

Website / Technology: Sharon Gibson

Membership Chair:

Janet Enright

Sponsorship Chair: Karen Hunt

Public Outreach

Coordinator: Susan Morrison


round if irrigated; however, they require up to 50% less water than traditional grasses. In non-irrigated applications, some of these blends will establish during the cool wet season, "go dormant" in the summer and "green up" in the fall, to become beautiful seasonal meadows and golden summer fields. Visit our website www.deltabluegrass.com for product options, images and further information. Call (800) 637-TURF or your sales representative with questions about these new products.

Members' Section

SAN FRANCISCO FLOWER AND GARDEN SHOW BLOOMS FOR LAST TIME March 18 - 22 at San Mateo Event Center With its dramatic display gardens and extensive seminar programs, the San Francisco Flower and Garden Show has inspired millions of people and families to embrace gardening, and it has provided a showcase for many eminent as well as fledgling designers. Unless the show's producer, Salmon Bay Events, finds the right buyer, the 2009 event will be the last. Stargazing under the Western Sky, the APLD 2003 display garden, helped put our organization on the map, winning multiple awards and building membership statewide. Many individual members have since won numerous awards and acclaim: of 27 display gardens at the 2006 show, nine were designed by APLD members. As a vehicle for designers to hone their skills and reputation, this unrivaled venue will be sorely missed. This year's theme is "Sustainable Spaces, Beautiful Places," with 26 display gardens offering inspiration and innovation. Sustainability also will be the focus of many of the 120 free seminars presented by speakers from around the world. For details and tickets visit the show's website at http://www.gardenshow.com/sf/index/index.cfm Katey Mulligan, APLD

LIQUIDAMBAR Garden Design

WATER CONSERVATION SHOWCASE As California potentially faces its driest year in 150 years, with no significant rains in the long range-forecast, APLD continues to endorse


East Bay District President:

Susanne Frey

North Bay District President: Cynthia Sumner

Peninsula District President:

Glenn Hansen

Sacramento District President:

Cheryl Buckwalter

San Francisco District President:

Robin Alyse Doyle

Southern California Region: Ramie Allard

For a listing of our District Boards of Directors, please

visit our website.

For a complete listing of the APLD National Board of

Directors, please visit: http://apld.org/contact/




APLD

water conservation. The Water Conservation Showcase, scheduled for Tuesday 24 March at San Francisco's Pacific Energy Center, is one informative outlet. PGE is promoting participation and water efficient products and expertise in its effort to soften impending water restrictions. The event is organized by Northern California Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council, East Bay Municipal Utility District, and the Pacific Energy Center. All revenue generated from the event is donated to PGE's non-profit partner, the Northern California Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council. More information on the showcase is available at: http://www.pge.com/pec/water/.

Building Performance Program Coordinator Pacific Energy Center 415.973.7257

***** GREEN THEMES: Want to Calculate your Carbon Footprint? Check out: http://www.pge.com/mybusiness/environment/calculator/;

*****

CAPTURING CARBON IN CEMENT - from LandscapeOnline. Did you know that cement manufacture is among the most energy-consuming and polluting industrial processes? Alternatives are emerging that may help to neutralize the damage - by producing cement that can absorb more carbon dioxide than it emits - a process known as CCS: carbon capture and sequestration. Alternative blends so far include ash from coal-fired power plants, known as fly ash, and pozzolana, a volcanic ash. Although limited in their supply, these natural materials replace some of the fused minerals used in traditional cement, and therefore avoid the need to heat limestone to 1,450 degrees Celsius. The substitutes are becoming more common, mostly in continental Europe, according to the International Energy Agency. Read more at: http://www.landscapeonline.com/research/article/11673;





Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues support for all chapter and district programs in California. The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California District programs and meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available) -Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected]. Join the dynamic and

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

APLD Member Wins CLCA Award - Again By Pamela Simonds, APLD A design by Pamela Simonds, APLD, for the Erickson Residence of Moraga received the 2008 Custom Residential Installation Achievement Award. This is the tenth design by Simonds Design to be

recognized by the CLCA East Bay Chapter. The landscape was installed by Garden Lights, also an APLD member. Pamela worked with the Ericksons and their architect for two years, taking the project through multiple public meetings, including design review. The plan was designed to transition comfortably from street level to a putting green 15 feet below; the steep slope offered the biggest challenge. The client recently commented that she could not have imagined the ease at which she can now traverse the space. Pamela will be showing a garden at the San Francisco Flower and Garden Show at the San Mateo Event Center from March 18-22. For more information, go to www.PamelaSimondsDesign.com

***** Featured on Radio Show and Blog If you've never heard garden writer Jennifer Jewell's radio show, In a North State Garden, which airs each weekend on the Chico national public radio station, this would be a good time to listen in. Jennifer has a wonderful way with words, and she writes and talks about all sorts of people and their garden-related activities throughout this region. This week she is talking with yours truly, Karen McGrath, about the value of good garden design. You can stream the 4-minute interview on your computer or tune into Northstate Public Radio (KFPR 88.9 FM in Redding) on Sunday at 8:34 am PST. This is the link for either method: http://www.kcho.org/listen/listen.asp Recorded interviews also are archived as podcasts to http://jewellgarden.com a few weeks after air date. Jennifer also posted a lengthy essay about me and garden design on her blog at http://jewellgarden.com/blog/. Check out Jennifer's site - it has a lot to offer! Karen McGrath Design - Landscapes for Outdoor Living


informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!







*****

Book Notes I am honored that Second Nature Design's gardens are featured in Home Outside: Creating the Landscape You Love by award-winning author and designer Julie Moir Messervy. The large-format, lusciously photographed publication by Taunton Press covers gardens from coast to coast. Two years elapsed since I first received notice that my gardens were selected to the day Home Outside arrived at the bookstores. It probably took longer for Ms. Messervy and her Publications Manager Mary Landon; answering their questions and writing about the gardens was fun. Most rewarding was the day I spent with renowned photographer Ken Gutmaker capturing images for the case study Living Alfresco--for which he insisted on including Sabu, my terrific dog. I met Julie Moir Messervy after a presentation she gave at the 2006 San Francisco Flower Garden Show. Now that the book is published, it seems fitting I will be giving presentations at this year's SFFGS. Please join me Wednesday 18 March at 5:45pm for "Gardening by the Square Inch: Making the Most of your Space," and on Saturday 21 March at 12:45pm for "Creative Gardening with Earth-Friendly Results." Bring friends, the more the merrier. Alma Hecht, APLD Second Nature Design http://secondnature.bz/ [email protected] Also included in Home Outside are designs by Michelle Helzer of Lotus Designs. This inspirational book of distinctive designs and striking photographs, released in January 2009, is available at www.amazon.com.



Date Friday, March 6, 2009, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM Title East Bay District Board Meeting Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary, [email protected]

Description

Regularly-scheduled planning and coordination meeting of the APLDCA East Bay District Board of Directors. District members and sponsors are welcome to attend these meetings, but due to limited space, arrangements must be


made prior to the meeting by contacting the District Secretary.

Cost None.


Date Tuesday, March 10, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Working with StoneSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected] Info www.thebrickyard.com

Description

Please note topic change. The originally-announced New Plant Introduction program will be in May. Originally from the Midwest, Jim Patterson graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in Meteorology. Since then, he has worked for over 30 years in the hardscape/building materials industry - 24 of those at Brickyard Building Materials. His vast knowledge and experience cover a wide range of materials, and coupled with his customer service orientation, he is supremely helpful to homeowners, contractors and designers alike, regardless of the size and complexity of the projects. Jim will be talking about types of stone - their origins, uses, limitations, costs, and availability. He will give us pointers on how to choose the right material for the right look and function. We've also asked him to enlighten us about new products and pass along some of his favorite "DOs and DON'Ts" for designers. He has promised to bring samples. Brickyard Building Materials has been supplying materials to homeowners, contractors, and designers for many years in three locations (Concord, Vacaville, and Sacramento), and is one of APLD's Gold Sponsors. They carry a huge variety of brick, block, stone and bulk materials, as well as fireplaces and BBQs. They are known for their knowledgeable staff and How-To clinics. Their display gardens are an added benefit for designers. For more information, visit their website www.thebrickyard.com. This is one program you won't want to miss!



Date Tuesday, March 17, 2009, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM Title LA District Meeting: Marketing & Communication

SpeakersSponsored by Los Angeles District

Contact Stephanie Bartron, [email protected]. Please RSVP if you plan on attending.

Description

Two dynamic speakers will be presenting timely talks to us at the Los Angeles Arboretum. Small Business Consultant Roberta Lachman Jacobs will talk to us about "Creating Your Marketing Message in a Recession." Writer Paula Panich will present "The Word: Write and Speak with Clarity and Brio (Your Clients will Appreciate It!)." We will also be discussing our participation, as a group, in the Los


Angeles Garden Show. Please RSVP to Stephanie if you plan on attending. Roberta's web site: www.doingbusinesswhilefemale.com Paula's web site: www.paulapanich.com

Location Los Angeles Arboretum. Date Tuesday, March 17, 2009, 4:30 - 6:30 PM Title Savvy New Business & Marketing Strategies for

Landscape DesignersSponsored by San Francisco District

Contact Cynde AvéLallemant, [email protected]. Please RSVP!

Description

Roundtable discussion on what works and what doesn't in this depressed economy, highlighted by presentations from local designers Deanna Glory, APLD, of Deanna Glory Landscape Design (SF) and Susan Morrison of Creative Exteriors Landscape Design (East Bay) sharing their creative re-packaging of design services into intensive, on-site sessions clients can afford. Find out how Deanna's "On the Spot" and Susan's "Real Deal" design packages actually work -- how it affects their design process, marketing strategies, and earning potential. Susan will also share how she reaches a wide audience via her web blog. Visit http://www.realdealgardendesign.com to view her dedicated website for the process highlights prior to the meeting. Deanna Glory Landscape Design http://www.glorydesign.com Creative Exteriors Landscape Design http://www.celandscapedesign.com

Cost APLD Members: Free; Non-APLD Members: $10

Location County Fair Building, Golden Gate Park, 9th Avenue & Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA

Date March 18, 2009, 3:15 PM Title Peninsula District Meeting at the SFFGS Sponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Laxmi Natarajan, [email protected]

Description

The March Peninsula District meeting will be held in conjunction with the San Francisco Flower & Garden Show. Speaker to be announced. Please consult the online Events calendar at www.apldca.org/Events.aspx for more up-to-date information.

Location SFFGS at the San Mateo Event Center, 2495 South Delaware Street, San Mateo, CA

Date March 18-22, 2009 (Date to be scheduled) Title North Bay District Trip to the SFFGS Sponsored by North Bay District Contact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected]

DescriptionWe will plan an informal trip to the San Francisco Flower & Garden Show for District members wishing to carpool. Check out the seminars and highlights at


www.gardenshow.com.

Location SFFGS at the San Mateo Event Center, 2495 South Delaware Street, San Mateo, CA

Date Wednesday, March 25, 2009, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PMTitle The APLD Designer Workshop: Best of SacramentoSponsored by Sacramento District

Contact Contact Gary Kernick for more info. RSVP by Monday, March 23rd. (916) 488-3374 or RSVP to [email protected]

Description

Best of Sacramento APLD! Bring your hot tips to share with fellow designers... Where is your favorite place to get inspired? Best website? Coolest gardening tool? Hottest new plant? UC DAVIS ALL STARS - The Arboretum presents the Top 100 Plants for the Central Valley and where to buy them. BOOK SWAP - Bring those cool garden books that you no longer use and swap for something new! DESSERT PARTY -Bring your best sweet treat to share. (Doesn't have to be homemade). Junette and Kathy will compete in the Best Carrot Cake Contest. RSVP by Monday, March 23 to [email protected].

Cost $5 for APLD Members and $15 for non-members.

Location Sierra 2, located in Curtis Park near 24th & Broadway with easy freeway access and ample free parking

Date Saturday, April 4, 2009, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Title Theodore Payne Native Plant Garden Tour Sponsored by Southern California Region


Additional Info www.theodorepayne.org

Description

We will organize carpools for this self-guided tour and rendezvous for a picnic lunch. Please contact Theodore Payne directly (see link provided) to purchase your ticket (just $20), then RSVP to Stephanie so we can send you lunch info. When you RSVP, please note if you are interested in carpooling and/or driving, as well as your city/neighborhood so we can coordinate. (Note: your garden tour ticket allows you admission for both days of the tour). From the Theodore Payne Foundation web site: "Experience the beauty of native plant gardens! Learn how to save water while attracting birds and butterflies to the garden. Our self-guided tour showcases more than 35 home gardens in the Los Angeles area, each planted with at least 50% California native plants! Tickets are $20 per person for both Saturday and Sunday on the Tour."

Cost $20.00 admission.Location Los Angeles Area. Date Tuesday, April 8, 2009Title Making It in a RecessionSponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected]


Description

Making It in a Recession: Business & Marketing Strategies. This will be a combined District & Board meeting, and will include a book exchange (bring a book to trade). Speaker to be announced.

Cost To be determined.Location To be determined. Date Tuesday, April 14, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Guidelines for Sustainable Design Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected]

DescriptionMark your calendars for this session on "Guidelines for Sustainable Design", featuring Sherri Osaka. Please watch this space for further details



Date Saturday, April 18, 2009Title SONOMA ROAD TRIPSponsored by Sacramento DistrictContact Gary Kernick, [email protected] Description More information coming soon. SAVE THE DATE! Cost tbaLocation tba Date Tuesday, April 21, 2009, 4:00 - 6:00 PM Title Plant ExtravaganzaSponsored by San Francisco District


Additional Info www.floragrubb.comDescription Flora Grubb presents seasonal plant favorites. Cost APLD Members: Free; Non-APLD Members: $10

Location Flora Grubb Gardens, 1634 Jerrold Avenue, San Francisco, CA

Date Wednesday, April 22, 2009, 3:00 PM - 5:30 PMTitle Designer/Contractor ForumSponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Laxmi Natarajan, [email protected] Description A panel of designers and contractors will discuss successful

partnerships and working together as a team.


Location To be determined. Date Tuesday, April 28, 2009, 6:00 - 8:00 PM Title Native Plants for Clay: Choice Selections in Heavy SoilsSponsored by San Francisco District


Additional Info www.madrono.orgThe dream property for a landscape design with native plants will offer sandy, well-drained soils -- but today's real


Description

world is full of real clients demanding happy plants in dense urban clay. Please join Geoffrey Coffey for a 45-minute slide show covering the best selections for native plants that thrive in heavy soils. A widely published freelance writer and an enthusiastic public speaker, Coffey is the founder of Madroño landscape design studio, a design/build firm with a focus on native plants and modern design; a co-owner of Bay Natives Nursery (www.baynatives.com), the Bay Area's online source for native plants; and the chairman of Native Spaces (www.nativespaces.org), a non-profit that promotes the use of native plants in the built environment.

Cost APLD Members: Free; Non-APLD Members: $10

Location Madroño Landscape Design Studio, 375 Alabama Street, #440, San Francisco, CA






Please scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of these events. And be sure to visit our online Events calendar for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (25th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members.

Saturday, April 4, 2009 Theodore Payne Native Plant Garden Tour Los Angeles District Tuesday, April 8, 2009 Making It in a Recession North Bay District Tuesday, April 14, 2009 Guidelines for Sustainable Design East Bay District Saturday, April 18, 2009 Sonoma Road Trip Sacramento District Tuesday, April 21, 2009 Plant Extravaganza San Francisco District Wednesday, April 22, 2009 Designer/Contractor Forum Peninsula District Tuesday, April 28, 2009 Native Plants for Clay San Francisco District Friday, May 8, 2009 Inspiring City Gardens, A Garden Tour San Francisco District Friday, May 8, 2009 East Bay District Board Mtg East Bay District Tuesday, May 12, 2009 New Plant Introductions East Bay District Wednesday, May 13, 2009 Round Table on Design North Bay District

APLD California Chapter April 2009 Newsletter

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT My Arms are Full - Please Can I Have More! By Maureen Decombe A luxurious cool spring has gently settled in after the long and welcome rains. Surrounded by bloom and beauty, we look toward the future refreshed, anticipating what spring will bring. As the world gently comes into flower, we feel the air vibrating with opportunity and action. This spring abundance bursts from the long-stored energy that moves up through the branches to feed flowers and leaves as the fruiting cycle renews; once that sap starts rising, there is no stopping it. Pruning cuts be damned, the dormant buds will burst into vigorous growth whether we

are ready or not. A judicious gardener makes timely cuts to nudge that energy toward production and beauty, but try as we may to direct and control things, if we are wise, we know that sometimes we can only shake our heads and marvel. The vivaciousness and unstoppable power of nature humbles us, as plants all over the place make their move. "Ready or not--we're here, we're gorgeous, and we dare you not to notice." This verve and enthusiasm also are reflected in the extraordinary flowering of our APLD California districts. Like an ambitious garden planted by a true optimist who is unafraid to broadcast every seed in her pocket, each district within our chapter is flowering its fool head off--the buds so full and heavy that the chapter infrastructure must continually strengthen to support the lush growth. Luckily, we've seen this coming for a long time, and we're proud to stand back and enjoy the colorful display. In March, we were proud to invite APLD International President Judy Nauseef to the garden party to observe a small part of what we have built together in California. During her four day visit, Judy met with numerous members at informal dinners and at our award-winning San Francisco Flower and Garden Show booth display. She attended an inspirational meeting at the San Francisco District, and strategized with chapter leaders on ways to strengthen ties and communication throughout the organization. Judy also served as a judge for the APLD Award at the Garden Show, Time flew by, and we were grateful that Judy could join us to celebrate the fruition of our efforts to date. I was personally excited, reminded of times in my childhood when hanging by one hand, I joyfully called to my adored aunt to witness my latest tricks on the jungle gym. "Look, now we can do this, and this, and this..." If only she had more time, there was still so much more to see... As I write these words, the newly formed Greater Los Angeles District met at the Los Angeles Arboretum to inspire members with marketing and communications strategies to weather the economic downturn. In Sacramento, APLD members are gathering to share ideas, tips and tricks, including a presentation by the UC Davis Arboretum, a book swap, and, rumor has it, deliciously sinful sweets. Soon after, our Los Angeles area members meet again for a 2D/3D presentation workshop. And while the North Bay and East Bay districts prepare for marketing and sustainable design workshops, I marvel that these functions occur throughout the state every month, a result of our combined dedication to our profession and our organization. As our roots burrow deeper, we continue to flower, grow, and attract even more members, cross-pollinating ideas and inspiration, generously supporting each other and sharing experience and

APLDCA Newsletter - April 2009 Page 1 of 14

Friday, May 15, 2009 Greenwood Nursery Field Trip & Grower/Designer Roundtable Los Angeles District Wednesday, May 27, 2009 Foothill College/APLD Garden Tour Peninsula District

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

knowledge. It is amazing that even in this challenging market, a sense of abundance and generosity flourishes among our colleagues. But is that enough? Well, I am ashamed to admit that I am sorry, but I don't think so. How could I be so greedy? How could I want more when my arms are brimming with blossoms? Why is it not enough to have a beautiful garden and just be grateful for such abundance? Because it's more fun when we share it with more people, when we know the garden will be well tended, when our knees have given out and we need a little nap on the porch. We need your help to harvest the fruits and share the wealth, to continue the work of those who came before us. I have two ambitious goals for our chapter and districts this year. First, I believe we can reach a long-held goal of 500 members this year. How can you help to make this happen? If each of you reaches out to a friend in the design community -- a former member who shows an interest in returning; a student just getting started; that friend who has never attended a meeting - Invite them to the table to share the harvest, and throw in a little dessert along the way. And if you are a member who is not yet sure where you fit into the organization, choose a small project with a defined timeline and get involved. You will doubtless meet others who inspire you, who will share their shortcuts and advice, and who will walk the path with you to share what this garden has to offer. My second goal is that every member serves in one small job this year to buttress the organization and attract new members. Call or email your district or chapter leaders and ask how you can participate. Opportunities abound. Dig right in. With seeds like this you can't help but grow something good. Maureen Decombe President APLD California Chapter News from...

The Board and

Districts

APLD Booth Wins 'Best of Show' By Glenn C. Hansen, President - Peninsula District, APLDCA Kudos, congratulations and thanks to the Garden Show Committee from the Peninsula District, headed by Allison Olson and actively supported by Jeanine Gerstenfeld, Tina Roushall and Laura Schaub, for their prize-winning design of the APLD booth. The booth won Best of Show in the educational division. Thanks also to all who volunteered for booth duty or contributed images for the electronic and hard copy portfolios. The entire effort reinforces APLD's commitment to professionalism and creativity.

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In the Afterglow of the Garden Show By Allison Olson - Peninsula District, APLDCA

The garden show has ended. I'm sitting in my studio watching the dust settle, basking in the calm that takes over after any big occurrence. Recounting all the little details, I drift from thought to thought, continually reminded that the industry I work in is truly remarkable for one primary reason: the people in it.




Petaluma, CA 94925 707-778-0136

New Earth Nursery

The committee that constructed the APLD booth comprised three mighty members. I call them mighty because from the first meeting weeks before the show to the last item put on the truck during the booth breakdown, they were committed. From Laura Schaub's amazing presentation of members' gardens displayed throughout the show, to Jeanine Gerstenfeld's recruitment of volunteers, to Tina Roushall's generosity and graciousness in opening her home as the hub of pre-show activities, these women labored unstintingly for the greater good of the organization.

The booth was ambitious. Sixteen organizations donated or loaned materials. In these uncertain times I approached each one with trepidation and was astounded by how readily they gave. Their response speaks volumes not only about who we are as an organization but how committed each vendor is to our industry.

Add to this our community of contractors. With tools in hand, Dale & Mark vonDohren, Mike Hertzer, Jeff Sheehan, Jim Everett, Rick Evans and Larry Tranberg set to work on weekends and evenings to help us reach our goal, filling in construction blanks. And to Glenn Hansen, President of the Peninsula District, a true leader and contributor who buoyed us all along the way - we couldn't have done it without you.

In the afterglow of the show, I have a renewed sense of faith that we will persevere in these trying times. We as an organization have a wealth of resources, industry leaders and committed professionals to lift us up and carry us through to the finish line, over and over again. It is my honor and privilege to be your peer and colleague. Thank you for this wonderful experience.

_________________________

GreatDistricwith PunctuBy LauMortoPresidGreateDistricAPLD The neformedLA Dimake iat the 2AngeleShow May 1Punctthe GaA GalEdiblethe garincorpinnovarepurpcontainat leaspercen

plant materials, along with members' unbridled imaginations to create mouthwatering, living works of aMonrovia Growers, a loyal APLD Allied Member and Gold Sponsor, is generously providing the edibmaterials. As professional landscape designers we frequently employ art, sculpture or planted containers to 'punct


APLD


Directors

President: Maureen Decombe

Vice President:

Joni Wilson, APLD

Immediate Past President:

Colleen Hamilton

Acting Treasurer: Tina Roushall

If you have an interest in serving as Treasurer,

please contact: [email protected]

Secretary:

Tina Roushall




Calendar:

Sharon Gibson


Membership Chair:

Janet Enright


garden. Acting as focal points or details, they lead the eye through the space. Thoughtful selection adds personality, flourish and finish to a well designed space; our gallery will highlight this talent while promoting APLD to the public. Our edible gallery will delight all the senses at this year's LA Garden Show....

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It's the Growing Season By APLDI (APLD International) APLD is expanding again with the addition of New York and Connecticut Chapters. Be on the lookout in the next few weeks for information regarding these new East Coast chapters. If you have questions or would like to become involved in forming new chapters, please contact APLD headquarters at [email protected].

News from... The Sponsor's Corner

A Shout Out to our SFGS Vendors As noted in this issue, the APLD Booth at the San Francisco Flower and Garden Show won Best in Show in the Educational category. We could not have achieved this distinction without the support of the following vendors, who lent or donated their products and materials to make our booth a success. Please give them a huge APLD THANK YOU next time you get a quote, purchase a plant, or specify their products: All Natural Stone - www.allnaturalstone.com Avalos Marble & Granite Tile - www.avalosmarble.com Bay Area Gadgets - www.bayareagadgets.com Economy Lumber Company - www.economylumber.com Four Winds Growers - www.fourwindsgrowers.com Garden Accents - www.garden-accents.net Graniterock - www.graniterock.com FX Luminaire - www.fxl.com John Deere Landscapes - www.johndeerelandscapes.com Lyngso Garden Materials, Inc. - www.lyngsogarden.com Magnolia Audio Video - www.magnoliaav.com Monrovia - www.monrovia.com Peninsula Building Materials Co. - www.pbm1923.com Silicon Valley Laser, LLC - www.svlaser.com Succulent Gardens - www.sgplants.com Whole House Building Supply & Salvage - www.driftwoodsalvage.com


Public Outreach Coordinator:

Susan Morrison



Susanne Frey

Los Angeles District President:

Laura Morton

North Bay District President:

Cynthia Sumner


Glenn Hansen


Cheryl Buckwalter


Robin Alyse Doyle

Southern California Region:

Ramie Allard


visit our website.




Member FAQs

Are you a new member with lots of questions about how the APLD California Chapter works? Did you just renew and have a question about how your dues are used? Interested in starting a new district in your area, like Los Angeles members did recently? Check out our California Chapter Membership FAQs.


APLD

California Chapter

News from... The Members' Section

Update on Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance Report by Susan Morrison - East Bay District, APLDCA Over the past year the State Department of Water Resources has revised the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO). The final regulation text may be viewed on-line at http://www.owue.water.ca.gov/docs/final_regulation.pdf. All local agencies in California are required to adopt this ordinance or equivalent no later than January 2010. If their projects meet specific criteria, homeowners will be required to submit a compliance of landscape documentation which includes: a Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet, Hydrozone Information Table, Water Budget Calculations, Soil Management Report, Landscape Design Plan, Irrigation Design Plan, and Grading Design Plan. The ordinance is quite detailed; I encourage you to become familiar with it in its entirety, however, some portions are particularly relevant to landscape designers. What home-owner instigated residential projects will be subject to this ordinance? "New construction landscapes which are homeowner-provided and/or homeowner-hired in single-family and multi-family residential projects with a total project landscape area equal to or greater than 5,000 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review." Keep in mind that the ordinance is a guideline and local agencies may choose to adopt more stringent criteria, for example, by decreasing the amount of square footage or by defining the definition of permitted projects more broadly. May a landscape designer provide the required documents? The model ordinance states "the landscape design plan shall contain the following statement: ' I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them for the efficient use of water in the landscape design plan;' and...the signature of a licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor or any other applicable landscape professional, person, licensed or unlicensed, as listed in the Business and Professions Code, California Code of Regulations, or Food and Agriculture Code." Essentially, landscape designers will still be able to provide any documents currently allowed by the Business and Professions Code. If you are unfamiliar with the relevant portion of this document, it is available at www.apldca.org in the member's section under News and Resources. As always, you are strongly discouraged from providing any plans, documents or information, written or otherwise, for which you are unqualified, or which may place you or your client at risk in any way. How can I affect how this ordinance is adopted by my local agencies? You are encouraged to contact your city's permitting department or water resource agency to learn when the ordinance will be brought before the city council. It is standard for the adoption process to include a public comment stage. As designers, this is an excellent opportunity for us to promote conservation, represent our client base, and define ourselves as experienced professionals. APLD California has provided talking points to assist you in establishing your credentials as an industry professional. You will find them in the files section of the Yahoo Group under WELO talking points. Two of our North Bay district members, Sierra Hart and Cynthia Sumner, attended the first stakeholders meeting held by the Sonoma County Water Agency (SCWA) to address regional adoption of CA WELO. They found the discussion to be highly relevant to our profession. Following are paraphrased excerpts from Sierra's report on the process: "Up to 40 participants represented local planning agencies, landscape contracting companies (ranging from maintenance to install to design-build), landscape architects, designers, irrigation equipment companies and water department officials. The intention of this process is to build consensus through a series of meetings through July 2009 regarding details of specific adoption by municipalities in our region. In this meeting we reviewed specifically the first two sections: Purpose and Applicability, with small break-out groups reporting back to the main group. Comments and opinions included:

Ensure alignment with others developing 'whole systems approaches' such as Sustainable Sites Initiative.


Membership Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues support for all chapter and district programs in California. The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California District programs and meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available) -Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected]. Join the dynamic and informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!


Belgard Hardscapes

Questions about triggers for permits. Building permit occupancy should be given separate & prior to final landscape inspection so that landscape is not rushed or minimized. Many comments regarding residential requirements too onerous for homeowners - cost of design & compliance too high in proportion to overall project cost. Flip side of coin - what about projects under the square feet minimums?

Santa Rosa is likely to remove all reference of square feet so the ordinance would apply to all projects that would otherwise require a building permit (also grading permit will be added as a trigger.) This would alleviate some of the confusion (i.e. can a developer apply by individual lot to avoid 5000 square foot threshold; might projects be divided or phased into smaller chunks;) A resolution that seems likely to be incorporated by Santa Rosa is a tiered system where all projects are subject to some level of compliance; for smaller projects, fewer parts of the application would need to be submitted." Thank you to Fran Adams, Cheryl Buckwalter, Janet Enright, Astrid Gaiser, Sierra Hart, Audrey Newell and Cynthia Sumner for investigating and reporting on this important issue.

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Opportunities for Sustainable Education Landscape designers in California are presented with a wide array of challenges to respond to climate change, water restrictions and waste reduction. Sustainability is a universal goal we all share as our organization deepens our commitment to the environment. Following are some educational opportunities to broaden your expertise. The River Friendly Program in Sacramento offers a Green Gardener Training Program. This ten-week series provides high quality training in all the key principles of River-Friendly Landscaping or "Green Gardening" such as:

Conserving water, protecting the soil and reducing the use of pesticides. Creating a healthier garden for you, your community and the environment. Offering a list of River-Friendly Landscaping Principles, helping you to compete in the professional industry. Many classes include both indoor and outdoor hands-on components.

Classes began Thursday 31 March. Click here for details: http://www.sactostormwater.org/SSQP/riverfriendly/Documents/RFL-GG-Brochure_final.pdf Sonoma State University offers a Sustainable Landscape Professional Certificate Program, an innovative approach to teaching the principles of ecological landscape practices. A team of permanent faculty and guest instructors cover six major topics in sustainable landscaping. Each day-long class stands on its own, and while designed for the landscape professional, offers a wealth of information, resources and guidance for any gardener. For more information, visit this website: http://www.sonoma.edu/sustainablelandscape/welcome.html In Southern California, a group of landscape professionals has created a Sustainable Landscape Certification course, the Attainable Sustainable Module Series, and Sustainable Landscape Certification Exam. The next round of classes and testing begins May 20. The Attainable Sustainable Module Series provides:

Up-to-date facts about the latest environmental issues, as well as cutting-edge techniques and eco-restorative practices underlying sustainable landscape design. Techniques for analyzing landscapes and the selling tools required to effectively communicate new climate- and place-appropriate landscape ideal and solutions to homeowners, developers and builders.

A generous 15 percent discount is available to APLD members. Click here for more details.

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Broadmoor Landscape Supply Calstone





Come Pick the Fruit By Jonathan Silverman San Francisco Glean is a non-profit group of volunteers that harvests fruit and nut trees to donate the crop to food banks, pantries and food programs. The group currently is building a map of fruit trees throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. They would love to include your neighbors' trees and plan to assemble teams to pick the fruit. Not only does this effort help to feed people who need it, it also promotes the planting of more fruit and nut trees in the city. If you are interested in helping or identifying trees for harvesting, contact Jonathan at 650 346 7242; [email protected]; www.sfglean.org

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More on 'Backyards: A Sunset Design Guide' By Donna Guldimann - Peninsula Chapter, APLDCA A previous newsletter noted the release of a Sunset book that features three APLD landscape designers from the San Francisco Bay Area. Kelly Bowman Greenwood, Katey Mulligan and Patricia St. John are part of an eight member design panel from across the United States who contributed their advice and expertise to this book As APLD continually seeks ways to promote members, it is worth noting how these designers were selected. Author Bridget Biscotti Bradley says she first explored the APLD website and scanned members' linked websites. From these she selected designers to interview based on their displayed work. She then chose specific gardens as 'Case Studies' to tie-in with the book's chapter topics. Each chapter also contains 'Pro Boxes' that address specific topics. In the chapter on Arbors and Pergolas, for example, Kelly Bowman Greenwood's 'Pro Box' proposes structures as a means of 'Adding Style and Value.' The book at first glance is geared for the do-it-yourself homeowner. Input from the professionals is strong, however, and should steer homeowners to seek further guidance. In the Resources section, APLD is listed under Organizations and Associations. For the professional, the photographs are large, colorful, and a good resource. Another value is the incorporation of eco-friendly materials and guidelines. The author owns a store in Menlo Park called Reclaim that focuses on eco-friendly home materials. (The design guide's other five contributors are landscape contractors, designers or landscape architects the author had known or worked with before.)

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New species of tree discovered in Northern California Reproba sequoiatempus 'Accelero' (Clock Redwood) is one of an extremely fast growing tree genus. The name describes a phenomenal rate of growth; indeed it can go from bare ground to a full height of over fifty feet in a matter of days. It is the only extant species in its genus, but other similar species are being discovered daily. While it seemingly needs very little water, it's rapid growth rate may explain it's hardiness; Indeed it would appear to be 100% impervious to bark beetles and even fire...only rust seems to affect it. More interestingly, the propagation method is completely unknown in that close examination reveals no flowers, cones or any other method of reproduction. The oddest part of the life-cycle is that it's never found within ten miles of another Clock Redwood, yet it seems to be spreading at an accelerating rate throughout coastal Northern California. More research is to be done. Other, equally rapid species endemic to other parts of California may be found by visiting http://waynesword.palomar.edu/faketree.htm


April Fool! Repropa sequoiatempus 'Acclero' translates from the Latin as Fake Redwood time fast...in short, it's the new-look microwave towers. Happy April 1st from an avid APLD admirer.

________________________ A Warm Welcome to All New APLDCA Members! New Allied Members: First Name Last Name Company City Joined APLDTom Ellington Coast Landscape Management San Jose 12/19/2008Ron Marsh Craftsman Landscapes Redwood City 02/06/2009Dale von Dohren Landmark Landscapes San Jose 12/27/2008New Associate Members: First Name Last Name Company City Joined APLDNatalia Bluck Natalia Bluck Landscape Design Folsom 12/10/2008Bonnie Brock Bonnie Brock Landscape Design Palo Alto 12/03/2008Victoria Comey Greensleeves Garden Design Los Altos 02/23/2009Francesca Corra Dirt Diva Designs Studio City 12/31/2008Laura Dalton Laura Dalton Landscapes Westminster 02/05/2009Jane Davis JD Gardens Playa Del Rey 03/07/2009Jeannie Fitch Orinda 12/03/2008Linda Garrett Linda Garrett, Landscape Architect San Jose 02/25/2009Elizabeth Hill Elizabeth Hill Landscape Design Albany 12/30/2008

Christiane Holmquist Christiane Holmquist Landscape Design Ramona 01/13/2009

Tami Jewett Tami Jewett Garden Design Moraga 01/14/2009Randi Johnsen Third Nature Studio San Francisco 02/26/2009Jennifer King Creative Escapes San Diego 01/08/2009Adrienne Kirin Kirin Landscape Design Fair Oaks 01/06/2009Joel Lichtenwalter Grow Outdoor Design West Hollywood 02/26/2009Linda McKendry Hidden Hills 02/07/2009Nina Mullen Albany 12/04/2008Gabrielle Newmark Swamp Pink Landscape Design Los Angeles 03/09/2009Virginia O'Connell O'Connell Landscape San Rafael 01/15/2009Sharon Ross Sanctuary Home & Garden Design Tujunga 01/23/2009Zach Steeber The Cutting Edge Landscape Redondo Beach 02/19/2009Susan Suddjian Caeli Landscape Architecture Capitola 01/27/2009Brian Swope Tierra Seca Landscape Design San Francisco 12/04/2008Carol Vander Meulen VVM Designs Livermore 01/25/2009Jeff Veliquette Lifescape Custom Landscaping, Inc. Morgan Hill 11/30/2008Kim Williams Williams Sprinkler & Landscape Santa Clarita 01/23/200New Student Members: First Name Last Name Company City Joined APLDBrenda Agresti Sebastopol 01/22/2009Isabella Buttron Oakland 01/07/2009Shannon Chalios Sacramento 01/19/2009Jeanne Chiodo Danville 02/10/2009Janet Cohen Walnut Creek 01/31/2009Alex Duarte-Silva San Francisco 03/06/2009Arleen Ferrara Santa Monica 01/21/2009Julie Glance-Hahn San Diego 01/29/2009Mary Ann Griese Mountain View 01/29/2009Darwin Harrison Oakland 03/04/2009Tami Harvey Moraga 02/07/2009Colleen Havard San Ramon 01/02/2009Michelle Minor Alameda 12/05/2008Dorothy O'Neill Petaluma 03/09/2009Ruth Ostroff Rio Linda 02/10/2009Joyce Rietveld Novato 02/04/2009Edythe Rodgers Auburn 02/04/2009Chloe Short San Francisco 03/03/2009


Awards & Recognition Have you won an award or been published in a magazine? Do you know of someone who is worthy of notice? Please consider sharing your news with other members! Click here to read guidelines and obtain a template for submitting articles to the newsletter.

Poet's Corner wins Silver Medal at SF Flower & Garden Show By Pamela Simonds APLD The challenges of a new location, weak economy and low budget did not hinder this designer from a silver award at the Garden Show. The combined energy of four paid laborers plus14 volunteers built the garden in three days, then took it down after the show in six hours. Seven garden attendants, including APLD members, staffed

the garden during the five days of the show. A huge thank you to everyone who helped and to all who stopped by to say hello! Marin's Best For the fifth year in a row, Cynthia Egger has won the title "Best Landscape Designer in Marin" for 2009. The contest is sponsored by the Pacific Sun Paper in Marin County which invites the public to vote for their favorite designer. Having won for five years, Cynthia now retires to the "Hall of Fame Best of Marin." Says Cynthia: "It is a great honor and is one reason why in this slow season I am experiencing a full load of work, with contracts signed for future work."



Date Saturday, April 4, 2009, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Title Theodore Payne Native Plant Garden Tour Sponsored by Los Angeles District


Additional Info www.theodorepayne.orgCost $20.00 admission.


Location Los Angeles Area.

Description

We will organize carpools for this self-guided tour and rendezvous for a picnic lunch. Please contact Theodore Payne directly (see link provided) to purchase your ticket (just $20), then RSVP to Stephanie so we can send you lunch info. When you RSVP, please note if you are interested in carpooling and/or driving, as well as your city/neighborhood so we can coordinate. (Note: your garden tour ticket allows you admission for both days of the tour). From the Theodore Payne Foundation web site: "Experience the beauty of native plant gardens! Learn how to save water while attracting birds and butterflies to the garden. Our self-guided tour showcases more than 35 home gardens in the Los Angeles area, each planted with at least 50% California native plants! Tickets are $20 per person for both Saturday and Sunday on the Tour."

Date Wednesday, April 8, 2009, 3:30 - 5:30 PM Title Marketing Your Services in a Down Economy Sponsored by North Bay District

Contact Cathy Edger. Please RSVP to (415) 328-7772, or [email protected]

Cost Members $5, Non Members $10

Location Shamrock Materials, San Rafael Showroom, 549 DuBois Street, San Rafael

Description

What does your perfect client "look like?"

What's important to them? How can you reach them?

Does your message express a unique quality that would make your target customer choose you?

Kiki La Porta and Barbara Stenson from Descom Studios will share insights from their decades of marketing experience to help us take advantage of the opportunities of offered during a down economy. Prior to the presentation, architectural stone specialist Carol Green will introduce the exciting array of sustainable materials that Shamrock offers. Local designers from the National Kitchen and Bath Association have also been invited to join us for an afternoon of networking and sharing of ideas. Descom Studios is a marketing communications agency offering strategy, branding, graphic design, photography and consulting in the Bay Area. Clients include the Marin Municipal Water District, the County of Marin Sustainability Team, Marin Master Gardeners, and Tamalpais Bank. Descom is a Certified Green Business and actively supports businesses embarking on the "green path." Board members and Committee Chairs meeting at 2pm. All North Bay District members welcome. Location to be determined (close to Shamrock). Information will be sent out prior to meeting date.


2:00pm to 3:30pm -- District Board meeting 3:30pm to 4:15pm -- Tour Shamrock and enjoy appetizers 4:15pm to 5:30pm -- Marketing presentation

Date Tuesday, April 14, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Guidelines for Sustainable DesignSponsored by East Bay District Contact Sharon Gibson, [email protected] Info www.landscapestandards.com

Cost $5.00. Visitors: $15.00. Students with ID: $10.00. ($5.00 is for room rental).


Description

Mark your calendars for this session on "Guidelines for Sustainable Design", featuring Sherri Osaka. Sherri Osaka is the owner of Sustainable Landscape Designs, a landscape design firm, and has been designing ecologically for over ten years. She is also a co-founder of the Sustainable Landscape Roundtable, an organization that encourages landscape professionals to adopt ecological practices. Sherri and several colleagues developed a set of landscape standards and ecological resources that are available on the internet at www.landscapestandards.com. She speaks on a wide range of sustainable landscape techniques, including drip and gray-water irrigation, California native plants, recycling materials, as well as guilt-free lawns.

Date Saturday, April 18, 2009 Title Sonoma Road TripSponsored by Sacramento District Contact Gary Kernick, [email protected] To be announced. Location To be announced. Description More information coming soon. SAVE THE DATE! Date Tuesday, April 21, 2009, 4:00 - 6:00 PM Title Sizzling Plant PalettesSponsored by San Francisco District


Additional Info www.floragrubb.comCost APLD Members: Free; Non-APLD Members: $10

Location Flora Grubb Gardens, 1634 Jerrold Avenue, San Francisco, CA

Description

Hunting for plants that make a statement and add to the spatial experience of the garden? Destination: Flora Grubb Gardens! Experience Flora Grubb's personal style, enthusiasm, and knowledge of plants as she shares her tantalizing picks of the season, favorite combinations, and choice plants for the shade. Flora will be joined by Jason Dewees of the Palm Brokers as we explore designing with palms and consider specific species that thrive in the Bay Area. Come early and enjoy the nursery!

Date Wednesday, April 22, 2009, 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM


Title Designer/Contractor ForumSponsored by Peninsula District Contact Laxmi Natarajan, [email protected]


Location To be announced.

Description A panel of designers and contractors will discuss successful partnerships and working together as a team.

Date Tuesday, April 28, 2009, 6:00 - 8:00 PM

Title Native Plants for Clay: Choice Selections in Heavy Soils

Sponsored by San Francisco District


Additional Info www.madrono.orgCost APLD Members: Free; Non-APLD Members: $10

Location Madroño Landscape Design Studio, 375 Alabama Street, #440, San Francisco, CA

Description

The dream property for a landscape design with native plants will offer sandy, well-drained soils -- but today's real world is full of real clients demanding happy plants in dense urban clay. Please join Geoffrey Coffey for a 45-minute slide show covering the best selections for native plants that thrive in heavy soils. A widely published freelance writer and an enthusiastic public speaker, Coffey is the founder of Madroño landscape design studio, a design/build firm with a focus on native plants and modern design; a co-owner of Bay Natives Nursery (www.baynatives.com), the Bay Area's online source for native plants; and the chairman of Native Spaces (www.nativespaces.org), a non-profit that promotes the use of native plants in the built environment.

Date Friday, May 8, 2009, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Title Inspiring City Gardens: A Day of Designer-Led Tours of Private Gardens in SF


Contact Linda Rude, Linda Rude Designs, 839 Union Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

Cost APLD Members: $30; Non-APLD Members: $40 Location San Francisco South of Market Gardens

Description

Join us as we tour several exciting San Francisco South of Market gardens. Get informative "behind-the-scene" details featuring the work of Bernard Trainor and APLD's own Suzanne Arca, Katey Mulligan, Jared Vermeil plus others. Exact locations will be given the day of the tour. Carpooling will be assigned -- we will be traveling as a group in as few large vehicles as possible due to San Francisco parking difficulties and touring time constraints. Bring a bag lunch. Cameras welcome. REGISTRATION: Event is limited to 30 participants. Priority will be given to APLD members who may register beginning March 30th. Non-APLD members


may start registering April 6th. Please make checks payable to APLD-SF and reference Spring Fling 2009. Mail check and registration form to: Linda Rude Designs, 839 Union Street, San Francisco, CA 94133. NOTE: Email addresses and phone numbers will be necessary to receive registration confirmation and further event details as tour date nears. Editor's Note: Please visit this entry in our online Events calendar to obtain a copy of the registration form. Go to www.apldca.org/Events.aspx, navigate to May 2009, and click on the event title. Then click on the link provided for the registration form.

Date Friday, May 8, 2009, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM Title East Bay District Board MeetingSponsored by East Bay District

Contact Donna Dillon, District Secretary, [email protected]

Cost None.


Description


Date Tuesday, May 12, 2009, 3:30 - 6:00 PM+ Title New Plant IntroductionsSponsored by East Bay District Contact Sharon Gibson, [email protected] Info http://www.devilmountainnursery.com

Cost Free to members. Visitors: $10.00. Students with id: $5.00.

Location Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery, San Ramon.

Description

Please note NON-STANDARD start time & location!! This meeting will feature a New Plant Introductions talk by Tina and Larry of Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery, an APLD California Chapter Gold Sponsor. Come early for a guided tour of the 19 acre nursery, and stay late for insight into this year's hot new plant offerings. If you can't make it early for the tour, the presentation will start about 4:30 PM.

Date Wednesday, May 13, 2009 Title Round Table on DesignSponsored by North Bay District Contact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] To be announced. Location To be announced.

Description Presentations by members and discussion about their work. District Meeting to precede presentations.


Title Greenwood Nursery Field Trip / Grower & Designer Roundtable


Sponsored by Los Angeles District

Contact Stephanie Bartron, [email protected] Please RSVP!

Additional Info http://greenwoodgarden.com/

Location Greenwood Gardens, 8000 Balcom Canyon Rd., Somis, CA 93066

Description

John Schoustra is hosting this event at his wonderful growing grounds. He's inviting Jackson/Perkins and other growers to show us some of their newest plants, talk to us about what they're developing next, and get our feedback. The day includes lunch and living party favors, so please RSVP (to Stephanie)!

Date Wednesday, May 27, 2009 Title Foothill College/APLD Garden TourSponsored by Peninsula District

Contact Laxmi Natarajan, [email protected]. Please RSVP to [email protected].

Cost To be announced. Location To be announced. Description To be announced.






Please scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of these events. And be sure to visit our online Events calendar for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (25th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members.

Fri, May 8, 2009 Inspiring City Gardens San Francisco District Fri, May 8, 2009 East Bay District Bd Mtg East Bay District Tue, May 12, 2009 New Plant Introductions! East Bay District Wed, May 13, 2009 Earth Friendly Designs North Bay District Wed, May 13, 2009 Sacramento Distr. Bd Mtg Sacramento District Fri, May 15, 2009 Greenwood Nursery Field Trip, etc. Los Angeles District Wed, May 20, 2009 Designer Dirt Sacramento District Wed, May 27, 2009 Foothill College / APLD Garden Tour Peninsula District Tue, June 9, 2009 The Designer's Orchard East Bay District Wed, June 10, 2009 Garden Tour: Sustainable Case Study North Bay District Tues, June 16, 2009 Design Salon

APLD California Chapter May 2009 Newsletter

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE By Maureen Decombe

Gardens are time-benders. There are times of year when so little seems to be happening on the surface, as if everything is in a state of suspended animation. Two months or three can slip by with little apparent activity; and because I sort of measure my time by what happens in gardens, I start to get a little sleepy in February and this state often rolls softly over into March without my much noticing it. Then along comes April. She starts off kind of slow, dropping little hints of what's to come, a sweet little blossom here, a couple of new shoots there, but the first two weeks are really a tease. Till WHAM, the

earth heats up, the air warms, we get a couple of days in the eighties or nineties, and suddenly we are surrounded by juicy foliage of all kinds, fecund blossoms heavy with scent and all manner of insects buzzing around, intent on their mission to eat or be eaten. Holy moly, there's a five foot tall sunflower growing up through my snow peas! How did that happen?! This is when I realize I've completely lost track of time, been down the rabbit hole and through the looking glass as well. Somewhere in my mind it's still February and I still have a bunch of "rainy day" tasks on my list. But there is no time for that now. Those days are gone and they're not coming back until next fall. So goodbye new website, goodbye to cleaning up my address book. And that painting I was going to do of my dog looking out the window? Fuggeddaboudit. There are gardens to be toured, tomatoes to be planted, spent pea vines to be composted and all manner of irrigation adjustments to be made. Yeah, there's real work to be done. But before I get back out there, like April I want to steal a few minutes of your time to recognize some behind-the-scenes efforts of our chapter board. We spend a lot of time talking about what the districts are doing and well, to tell you the truth, it's because they're doing the fun stuff--educational programs, garden show displays, outreach to the public--and finding so many incredibly interesting topics, locations and speakers for meetings, I'm astounded at the embarrassment of riches we have right in our own back yards. Just take a look at the calendar and imagine if you could attend all those events, all over the state! And if you think that's fun, consider the plethora of conference calls one can partake in while doing service at the chapter level. It's a regular feast for the imagination--member data management and secure credit card processing, or perhaps a short course in APLD branding and logo consistency; and don't forget the exciting process of seeking an E & O insurance carrier to serve the needs of the entire international organization. Then there's the drama of the dues distribution policy and California Chapter Bylaws that were last updated three years ago.... Well, that doesn't sound very shiny, but our dedicated chapter board and committee chairs have been quietly and consistently addressing these issues and more, in collaboration with our district and international leadership.

APLDCA Newsletter - May 2009 Page 1 of 10

San Francisco District Wed, June 24, 2009 Summer Edibles Garden Party Peninsula District

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

So thank you to Colleen Hamilton, our Past President, who has taken the lead as the APLD National Sponsorship Chair and advocates for positive changes to make our own program consistent with the rest of the organization. To Joni Wilson, who is spear-heading chapter advocacy efforts for E & O insurance coverage nationwide; to Li Vellinga, who with the editorial and technical support of Katey Mulligan and Sharon Petersen is turning out an excellent and informative monthly newsletter; and to Sharon Gibson, who even now is laying the groundwork for future website and other technological improvements. To Susan Morrison and her ad hoc team of district leaders and members, who analyzed the Water Efficient Landscapes Ordinance and developed a vital set of talking points for members wishing to participate in their local municipal regulatory process. To Karen Hunt, who has been gearing up for the 2009/2010 sponsorship program; and to Janet Enright, who has become an incredible advocate for California Chapter members' interests on the APLD National Membership Committee. To Laura Schaub, who keeps the Yahoo Group humming along; and if you haven't yet renewed, you'll soon be getting a gentle and pleasant reminder that the Yahoo Group is for members only, so hurry up and renew if you haven't done so. Already our Recording Secretary, Tina Roushall has willingly and competently stepped into the role of Treasurer. And our silent angel Maryanne Quincy continues to arrange all APLD CEUs for our programs. I've served on the board for five years now, and every single officer, committee chair and district representative has made an investment that is not susceptible to the whims of Wall Street. And the RIO is out of the ballpark. (That's return on investment for people who may have forgotten over the last year!) All our volunteers not only have done their part and so much beyond, they also have made it easier for the next person to transition into each position. Our volunteers have made a solid investment more valuable than money. Their time and no small part of their hearts have gone into an organization that is paying all of us back with diverse, innovative and relevant educational and networking opportunities. This is sort of the opposite of a Ponzi Scheme and could even be the antidote to the infamous Bernie Madoff, because what is most amazing is that they invest their time for free, no strings attached, just as their predecessors have done. We all know that patience and compost are the answer to most problems in a garden. Like soil that has been lovingly protected and composted, the APLD garden has spawned deep roots and sturdy shoots, thanks to the generous gardeners who give of their time for the benefit of all. And this spring, more than any time during my service, we have seen a great flowering, the payoff for all that hard work. Thank you all. It's actually quite overwhelming. I think I'll lie down in this sunny corner and watch the bees go by for a while. Climbing out of a rabbit hole is hard work, and I need a rest!

Maureen Decombe President APLD California Chapter News from...

The Sponsor's Corner

MONROVIA PARTNERS WITH VILLAGE NURSERIES Increasing Availability to Landscape Professionals Monrovia, the leading grower of premium plants, and Village Nurseries, a specialty grower for landscape professionals, have launched a new Grower Alliance Program to make more exclusive and proprietary Monrovia plants available to landscape professionals in the tri-state region of California, Arizona and Nevada. Both companies cited the ongoing demand by landscape professionals for larger sizes of the improved varieties of plants for which Monrovia




Petaluma, CA 94925 707-778-0136

New Earth Nursery

is known. "We are pleased to partner with Village because of its well deserved reputation for growing the highest quality," said Monrovia President Elin R. Dowd. "In the program, Village will grow the plants, utilizing the proprietary soil and mineral mixes developed by Monrovia, and market them in Monrovia branded containers. The larger size plants, in containers up to 24 inches, will become available to the trade beginning in 2011. "We know first hand the added value of Monrovia's 'Distinctively Better' plants and we're pleased to offer a broad range of the larger sizes previously unavailable to the professional," stated David House, CEO of Village Nurseries.

***** HOW TO BECOME A SHAMROCK-CERTIFIED TURF INSTALLER Shamrock Materials' Italgreen product line is available only to contractors and installers who have taken the training program and become Shamrock-certified installers. With this training, crews can deliver quick, professional installations with a high profit margin and maximum customer satisfaction. To register for the Next Session of Contractor Certification Program, click here.

News from... The Member's Section

APLDCA Events Calendar Update

By Sharon Gibson - Website / Technology and Calendar Chair

Don't forget that the online Events calendar at www.apldca.org/Events.aspx contains both APLD and non-APLD events. Even though non-APLD events are not published in this newsletter, it's definitely worth making a habit of checking out what's there. We post many, many green industry offerings from design-oriented seminars to intensive technical classes, some even offering APLD CEUs (entries with CEUs show up in purple). And, if you hear of an event you think others might like, don't be shy! Use the link "Click here to add an event" located at the bottom of any calendar page to submit your event for posting. Be sure to supply all the requested information, though, to insure your event gets posted.

With the advent of the new Los Angeles District (congratulations, LA District!), we have decided to split the non-APLD events into two calendars, one for Northern and one for Southern California. You can also view a "roll-up" calendar which combines the two. The online default is to view ALL events in ALL calendars, so if you are finding that to be "too much information", use the drop down available on each calendar page to select a subset. Happy Event Hunting!

*****

CLCA's WATER MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Added to Landscape Architecture CEUs The California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) is pleased to announce that its Water Management Certification Program has been added to the Landscape Architecture Continuing Education System (LA CES). LA CES is a collaboration of the American Society of Landscape Architects, Canadian Society of Landscape Architects, Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture, Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards, Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board, and the Landscape Architecture Foundation. This program establishes and maintains standards for professional development and continuing education programs for landscape architects. CLCA's Water Management Certification Program is open to all California green industry


APLD


Directors


Vice President:

Joni Wilson, APLD


Colleen Hamilton




Secretary:

Tina Roushall




Calendar:

Sharon Gibson


Membership Chair:

Janet Enright


Public Outreach


professionals and all those interested in water management. For more information or to register for the program, please visit the Landscape Architecture Continuing Education System at http://laces.asla.org/ or CLCA's website at www.clca.us/water. Check out the free PDF study guide, even if you aren't interested in taking the test and receiving certification. Click here to read the complete Press Release.

*****

ANDY GOLDSWORTHY INSTALLATION - Extended through July 19 By Katey Mulligan, APLD If you haven't yet visited the Goldsworthy at the Presidio exhibit, you still have time. The free exhibit, extended through July 19, offers insights into Goldsworthy's Spire through preparatory drawings, color photographs by the artist of spires he has created at other sites, and a 12 foot model of the sculpture. And don't miss the video of the actual installation, along with other Goldsworthy creations. Then visit the Spire itself, located near the Presidio's Arguello Gate. - For details and maps see: www.presidio.gov/experiences.

*****

THOUGHTS FOR CLIENTS PLANNING NEW LANDSCAPES in Slow Economic Times By Judy Maier For clients feeling they must put their dream garden on hold, consider these approaches to keep the inspiration and the energy flowing:

Schedule an initial consultation with your landscape designer to renovate your current landscape or to plan a new one. Ask your garden designer to discuss available services and options that work with other clients, then select the option that works best for your project and situation. If you plan to redesign and install a new landscape, why not start with the first phase of the process - planning and design. This will give you plenty of time to work through important design issues before installation begins. And the installation can be done in stages rather than all at once, or even at a later date; you now have your plan in hand, ready to take action when the time is ripe. If you're not ready to undertake a full scale design, consider renovating, adding or deleting elements to create new spaces and get a fresh feel. Your landscape designer can work with you in this way as well. For a sustainable approach, re-use existing materials in different ways to save resources and money. Ask your designer for some specific ideas for your property. Add sparkle with new pots or planting beds. Design your garden and install a section of it, perhaps the part most viewed from the house, such as the viewing garden in an Eichler home, or through the kitchen, living room or bedroom window, or the space you most use. (Remember, if you plan eventually to redesign the entire landscape, it's best to fully complete the design so you have a cohesive, integrated design throughout the property.) Perhaps your current garden has potential that a fine gardener or fine pruner can reveal with proper care. (See the up-coming article on Fine Pruning in the Los Altos Town Crier Home and Garden Magazine).

To continue, click here.

*****

FROM SOD TO SUSTAINABLE




Susanne Frey

Los Angeles District President:

Laura Morton


Cynthia Sumner


Glenn Hansen


Cheryl Buckwalter


Robin Alyse Doyle


Ramie Allard


visit our website.




Member FAQs



APLD


Replacing the Lawn with Drought-Tolerant Plants

By Karlyn Williams

Awareness is growing in California about the use and conservation of our water supply. When I analyzed the yearly water usage in my own household, I concluded that replacing the front lawn with a native plant environment would significantly decrease our water needs and increase the usability and curb appeal of our home.

After planning, I completed my project in three weeks, working on a part-time basis. I chose a native plant palette of visually appealing trees, shrubs and perennials. Using only California natives was a challenge at first but as I became familiar with the plants, I found I didn't need 'exotics' to punctuate the design. The local and migratory birds and insects will, I hope, enjoy my selections as well.

For clients wishing to replace a lawn with drought-tolerant and sustainable plants, the attached article describes, step by step, how to complete a project such as mine. In addition to recovering the immediate costs over time with lower water and yard maintenance bills, your clients also will enjoy a diverse, colorful and lively garden. To read the full published article click here: http://www.napavalleyregister.com/articles/2009/04/18/home/doc49e979f641aa7558105627.txt;

Karlyn Williams, owner of Garden Concepts Landscape Design, also offers garden coaching for novices. She can be reached at 707.259-5487.

*****

WE MOVED... and there is more creative space available in our complex Ketti Kupper Art + Design studio moved last month to 2611 Brighton Avenue in central Los Angeles, CA 90018. We're enjoying the space and light in our new stand-alone building that is part of a small developing creative complex. This summer we will design a courtyard that will be shared with other creative professionals in the collective. If you're a designer or artist looking for a studio, office or live-work space, contact our new office at 323.831.4757.



LOOK FOR KETTI in the new Coffee Table Book "Home Outside"

Garden designs by Ketti Kupper Art + Design are featured in the book Home Outside: Creating the Landscape You Love,


Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues support for all chapter and district programs in California. The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California District programs and meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available) -Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected]. Join the dynamic and informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!


Belgard Hardscapes Broadmoor Landscape

published by Taunton Press and written by author and designer Julie Moir Messervy. This step-by-step book embodies 'how-to' landscape design with inspiring photographs and creative solutions to common problems that homeowners face when merging their outdoor and indoor spaces. Ketti's Los Angeles case study, An Outdoor Gallery, was photographed by well-known San Francisco based garden photographer Ken Gutmaker and by landscape designer and photographer Ashley Elizabeth Ford. Home Outside is available at www.Amazon.com. For more information visit www.KettiKupper.com;

*****

NATIVE PLANTS GARDEN WINS SHOW AWARD

Serenity Now! A garden of Tierra Seca Landscape Design received the Pacific Horticulture Magazine Award at the 2009 San Francisco Flower and Garden Show. This garden was an example of true sustainability, utilizing a palette of all California native plants and many recycled materials. Original artwork and furniture were designed by TSLD, employing

recycled glass slag as well as reclaimed old-growth redwood lumber. *****

And park slope design's Joan Grabel featured two eco-conscious landscapes at the April Mar Vista Green Garden Showcase tour; contact Joan at 818.481.0883; [email protected]. To see a picture, click here.

*****

STINGY AND PROUD OF IT! Indeed I am proud of my reputation for creating water stingy - or should I say water wise sustainable gardens. In the past year and a half I have overseen the installation of more then 58 of my designs. Almost all of these replaced turf with Mediterranean palettes, bisected by meandering paths, irrigated with drip, enhanced with low-evaporation water features, and filled with 'air action' from birds, butterflies, bees and beneficial insects.


Supply Calstone





During 2008 I proudly received recognition for two of my gardens from the Western Metropolitan Water District's water-wise landscape contest. My own garden won second price -with a $500 award! And my client received the grand prize of $1,000 for my 2007 design and installation. To view a picture, click here. In addition, I was interviewed for an article on Southern California water-wise borders, and the article was featured in the March/April Lowe's Creative Ideas for Home and Garden Publication. Nan Simonsen, Nanscapes www.Nanscapes.biz;

***** APLD California Chapter

Upcoming Events



Title Inspiring City Gardens: A Day of Designer-Led Tours of Private Gardens in SF


Contact Linda Rude, Linda Rude Designs, 839 Union Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

Additional Info Cost APLD Members: $30; Non-APLD Members: $40Location San Francisco, South of Market gardens

Description

Join us as we tour several exciting San Francisco South of Market gardens. Get informative "behind-the-scene" details featuring the work of Bernard Trainor and APLD's own Suzanne Arca, Katey Mulligan, Jared Vermeil plus others. Exact locations will be given the day of the tour. Carpooling will be assigned -- we will be traveling as a group in as few large vehicles as possible due to San Francisco parking difficulties and touring time constraints. Bring a bag lunch. Cameras welcome. REGISTRATION: Event is limited to 30 participants. Priority will be given to APLD members who may register beginning March 30th. Non-APLD members may start registering April 6th. Please make checks payable to APLD-SF and reference Spring Fling 2009. Mail check and registration form to: Linda Rude Designs, 839 Union Street, San Francisco, CA 94133. [Editor's note: see Event entry at www.apldca.org/Events.aspx to download a copy of the registration form.] NOTE: Email addresses and phone numbers will be necessary to receive registration confirmation and further event details as tour date nears.

Date Friday, May 8, 2009, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PMTitle East Bay District Board MeetingSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary, [email protected] Cost None.


Description Regularly-scheduled planning and coordination meeting of the APLDCA East Bay District Board of Directors. District members and sponsors are welcome to attend these meetings, but due to limited space, arrangements must be made prior to the meeting by


contacting the District Secretary. Date Tuesday, May 12, 2009, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PMTitle New Plant Introductions!Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected] Info http://www.devilmountainnursery.comCost Free to members. Visitors: $10.00. Students with id: $5.00. Location Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery, 9985 Alcosta Blvd., San

Ramon, CA 94583

Description

Please note NON-STANDARD start time & location!! This meeting will feature an on-site New Plant Introductions talk by Tina Rose and Larry Mona at Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery, an APLD California Chapter Gold Sponsor. Come early for a guided tour of the 19-acre nursery, and stay late for insight into this year's hot new plant offerings. If you can't make it early for the tour, the presentation will start at approximately 4:15-4:30 PM. Agenda:

3:00 PM - Tour Nursery. (Please arrive a few minutes early; the tour will begin at 3:00 sharp).

4:00 PM - Begin District meeting: announcements, general business, housekeeping.

4:15 PM or so - Introduce speakers & featured presentation

6:00 PM - Adjourn meeting. Date Wednesday, May 13, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Title Earth Friendly Designs: Making the Shift to Sustainable Landscapes

Sponsored by North Bay District

Contact Cynthia Sumner. Please RSVP by May 10 to [email protected]

Cost Free to APLD members. Non-members: $10.

Location Novato, CA. Please RSVP by May 10th; location & directions will be provided via email.

Description

Presentation by Susie Dowd-Markarian of her Drakes Bay project with discussion and sharing of other members work to follow. Bring your ideas, designs, and photos of projects, along with your burning questions about what's working and what could work better. Join us for some informal brainstorming and an open forum about practices and standards for specifications.

District Board meeting at 2:30 pm, preceding presentation.

All Board Members & Committee Chairs are requested to attend.

Presentation at 4pm. Open discussion and sharing to follow.

Snacks and beverages provided. Date Wednesday, May 13, 2009, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PMTitle Sacramento District Board MeetingSponsored by Sacramento DistrictContact Lisa Scarr, [email protected] None.

Location The Flower Shop, 351 Green Valley Rd., El Dorado Hills, CA 95762. (916) 933-3163.

Description Sacramento District members are invited and encouraged to attend a Sacramento District Board Meeting



Title Greenwood Nursery Field Trip, Grower & Designer Roundtable & Bamboo Pipeline Lunch

Sponsored by Los Angeles District

Contact Stephanie Bartron. Please RSVP to [email protected]

Additional Info http://greenwoodgarden.com/Cost Free to APLD members.Location Greenwood Gardens, 8000 Balcom Canyon Rd., Somis CA 93066

Description

Greenwood Daylily/Pelargonium Garden Tour - Pack Trial Roundtable Exchange - Bamboo Pipeline Web Tutorial and Lunch John Schoustra of Rancho de las Flores and Greenwood Daylily Gardens has invited APLD members to his wonderful growing grounds. He's inviting Jackson/Perkins and other growers to show us some of their newest plants, talk to us about what they're developing next, and get our feedback. Bamboo Pipeline has invited the attendees to their headquarters for a presentation on their services, web tutorial of the GreenLinks portfolio and a lovely lunch. The day includes living party favors, great exchange with designers and green industry professionals and lunch - 'a must be there' event! Please e-mail Stephanie to RSVP.

Date Wednesday, May 20, 2009, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PMTitle Designer DirtSponsored by Sacramento DistrictContact Gary Kernick, 916-488-3374Cost To be announced.Location Sierra 2, Garden Room, 2791 24th Street, Sacramento, CA 95818

Description Gather with fellow Designers to dish about topics that are important to us and our industry. Stay tuned for topic and more details!!

Date Wednesday, May 27, 2009, 3:30 PM - 6:00 PMTitle Foothill College/APLD Garden TourSponsored by Peninsula District

Contact Laxmi Natarajan, [email protected]. Please RSVP to [email protected].

Cost To be announced.Location To be announced.Description To be announced. Date Tuesday, June 9, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PMTitle The Designer's Orchard: Citrus and other Fruit Trees Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected] Info http://www.fourwindsgrowers.com/Cost Free to members. Visitors: $10.00. Students with id: $5.00. Location Four Winds Growers, 42186 Palm Ave, Fremont, CA 94539

Description

Please note NON-STANDARD location!! Join us on-site at Four Winds Growers for a great introduction to the immense variety available in citrus and other fruit trees. Featuring Ed Laivo and Aaron & Don Dillon. Please watch this space for further details.

Date Wednesday, June 10, 2009Title Garden Tour: Sustainable Case StudySponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] To be determined.Location To be determined.

Description Sustainable Case Study Garden Tour; employing the principles of sustainability. (Members -- Please submit gardens for consideration before the end of March.)

Date Tuesday, June 16, 2009 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM


Title Design SalonSponsored by San Francisco DistrictContact Cynde AveLallemant, [email protected]. Please RSVP. Cost APLD Members: Free; Non-APLD Members: $10 Location Katey Mulligan's Residence, 280 Andover Street @ Courtland,

San Francisco, CA 94110

Description

Great opportunity to ask questions of your peers in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere! Bring a current project, address topics of interest to your business development, or just enjoy the company of other APLD members. SPACE IS LIMITED. With your RSVP, please indicate if you have a project or a topic you would like to discuss.

Date Wednesday, June 24, 2009, 3:00 PM - 5:30 PMTitle Summer Edibles Garden PartySponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain, [email protected] To be announced.Location To be announced.Description To be announced.






Please scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of these events. And be sure to visit our online Events calendar for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (25th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members. June 3-4, 2009 CA Chapter Board Mtg. California Chapter Tue, June 9, 2009 The Designer's Orchard East Bay District Wed, June 10, 2009 Garden Tour: Sustainable Case Study North Bay District Tues, June 16, 2009 Design Salon San Francisco District Wed, June 24, 2009 Summer Edibles Garden Party Peninsula District Wed, July 8, 2009 District/Board Mtg. North Bay District Tue, July 14, 2009 No East Bay Mtg. East Bay District Wed, July 22, 2009 No Peninsula Mtg. Peninsula District Fri, July 24, 2009 District Board Mtg. East Bay District

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

APLD California Chapter June 2009 Newsletter

President's Message By Maureen Decombe

"If I had more time, I would have written a shorter letter." This quote has been attributed to all the greats--Pascal, Twain, Eliot, Cicero, Voltaire, Hemingway and, my favorite suspect, T.S. Eliot. This phrase is always at the back of my mind when another deadline looms for the tome we fondly refer to as the Prez Mez. No, I never write it before deadline. I guess that's why it's so long. There's not enough time to make it shorter. If I give myself too much time I become a

perfectionist; and when that happens, there's a pretty good chance paralysis will follow. So, stuff gets done in the time allotted to doing said stuff, and no more. This is something I've learned to accept as a form of wisdom: progress, not perfection. Gardens too are best viewed as a dynamic and interactive series of events occurring over time on a given piece of ground. The pink fluffiness of spring gives way to the blazing orange of summer, settling finally in California into a subtle palette of beige and cream, reflecting and filtering the autumn light. (Select your color scheme as your garden preferences warrant.) Time, and the management of it, becomes a theme onto itself, as I sit down to hammer out the Prez Mez. Perhaps it's the deadline reminding me of the commodity most scarce in my personal and work life. All garden designers I know--and contractors too --struggle with balancing family, personal time, and fulfilling our professional obligations. We continually wrestle to ignite the creative passion, while meeting our deadlines and satisfying our collaborators. We are small business owners, we are artists, many of us are parents, employers, partners, spouses, siblings and children too. We have multiple and competing demands on our time; it has become increasingly important to choose wisely how and where we invest it. One thing is certain: If we do not keep alive the flame that fuels our love of plants, people and places, we will not bring our best selves to our projects. Early in my career, one designer I know told me how she loves to spend time on her boat. The vast blue water relaxes her, and the best part, she says, is that there are no plants to distract her and cause her to think about work. I didn't get it then, almost 20 years ago, but I do now. There are times when we need to clear our palate, go to a ballgame (another designer's strategy), visit a museum or hike in the desert; we need to get the plants out of our mind's eye to see the bigger picture. With a clear vision we come back refreshed, ready to add to our palette or to bring another priority to the fore. In my service as President, I've had many opportunities to choose my priorities and decide

APLDCA Newsletter - June 2009 Page 1 of 9



Petaluma, CA 94925 707-778-0136

where to steer our APLD tugboat. I've gotten much help and advice from an able and dedicated crew. The next priority, in this very challenging economy, is to work together to assess our resources and determine our next BIG IDEA, and our strategy for attaining it. What will we work toward to bring our talents to the fore, to engage our new members and challenge our established members to rethink old paradigms? Should we accept an offer to host the 2012 APLD International conference in California? Can we devote resources to recognize and establish a certification program specifically for California designers? Or should we retrench and hang tight until we know whether and how the economy will recover? I think not. We need to establish our agenda and set the stage for our incoming leaders to take the reins. There is no inspiration in just tugging along the same old way. To retain our vibrancy, we must continue to grow and evolve. We have the talent and wisdom among our members to pursue our next audacious goal. To do otherwise would be to waste our most valuable resource: the talents of our dedicated and gifted members. What will this AUDACIOUS BIG IDEA be, and will you be there to see it through? I challenge you to write to me today at [email protected]. Our board meeting takes place in a few days, and I'd like to explore your ideas with all our district and committee leaders. Whether you've been a member for one month or 12 years, share your dreams: how would you like to see the APLD evolve? Then come on board to help steer us there. Each one of us has a time and a purpose; and if each one of us commits to undertake one task, one committee, one event, together we can redouble our efforts and our achievements. When will you be on board? Maureen Decombe President APLD California Chapter News from...

The Board and Districts

Report from the Trenches: San Francisco District The revamped San Francisco District, under the energetic leadership of President and Communications Chair Robin Doyle, aided by Vice President and Program Chair Cynde AvéLallemant, has been the buzz for 'not to be missed' events. Event attendance has ballooned as members from surrounding districts -- East Bay, North Bay and Peninsula -- commute to join programs of interest to both seasoned and new designers. Spring sparked three programs in as many weeks, each hosting a raffle of rare or exotic plants. May - Spring Fling 2009 Spring events culminated with San Francisco District's first-ever garden tour -- a range of inspiring private gardens in the city's South of Market district. Focusing on one locale allowed for casual viewing without the need to scurry, drive or search for parking! Tour attendance was limited to 30 to allow travel as a group; this also enabled APLD members displaying their own gardens to take part in the tour and view gardens by their colleagues. Each garden's designer or client was available for questions on materials, plants, functionality and client satisfaction. All the tour sites were similarly sized - typical San Francisco garden lots of approximately 25 x 60 feet. Each reflected the creative diversity of the designer to meet site opportunities and client requirements. Suzanne Arca's live/work space, designed for a music company, accommodates group seating, an outdoor kitchen, custom


New Earth Nursery

copper arching wall and copper water feature. Jared Vermeil's back yard scenario -- long, narrow and down three stories -- was transformed into a contemporary tropical urban retreat, featuring a custom metal fireplace, with palms and bamboo to muffle street noise and screen neighboring properties. A meditative garden by Katey Mulligan incorporates elements of water, wood, metal, earth and fire to capture the Spirit of China, where the client grew up. Included as well were gardens by Bernard Trainor and a resident's own eclectic design. Judging by follow-up comments and the hum of designers enjoying lunch and each other's company -- yes, definitely a thumbs up: "A wonderful mixture of fun and learning!" "Well thought out, planned, and selected!" "Very inspiring, thought provoking, and great fun to be with designers from other parts of the Bay Area!" April - Focus on Plants! At Flora Grubb Gardens, Flora presented her seasonal picks plus plants for the shade with overall emphasis on sturdiness for the Bay Area climate. Jason Dewees of the Palm Broker joined Flora to discuss their specialty area - designing with palms - introducing some tough and gorgeous specimens. Next on the calendar was Geoff Coffey of Bay Natives. Through slides and live samples, Geoff presented California natives that thrive in clay soil. Selected plants varied in culture, texture and foliage, displaying natives at their garden-best. So, watch this District's program calendar. And be there! Submitted by Katey Mulligan, APLD For Robin Doyle and Cynde AvéLallemant


Monrovia Goes Green - At the California Grown Show By Katharine Rudnyk - Specialty Accounts Manager, Monrovia Come support your landscape distributors and nurseries at the only trade show in America featuring plants grown just in California. More than 75 growers will display their availability for now and into the future. The show will be held at the Orange County


APLD


Directors


Vice President:

Joni Wilson, APLD


Colleen Hamilton




Secretary:

Tina Roushall



Katey Mulligan

Newsletter / Production: Sharon Petersen

Calendar:

Sharon Gibson


Membership Chair:

Janet Enright


Public Outreach




Susanne Frey

Greater Los Angeles District President:

Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa, CA, inside Building 10 (Commerce Building) on Wednesday 3 June from 9am to 5pm. It is FREE to attendees. Up to 1,700 Southern California landscape designers and architects are invited to see what's new from Monrovia for 2010 and view offerings from other growers. It is critical as design professionals that we step away from our computers just for a day and really learn what plants can offer in terms of beauty, money savings and easier maintenance. To pre-register, please visit http://www.californiagrownshow.com/. See you at the show, and I encourage you to touch the plants and smell the flowers. Katharine Rudnyk, APLD Allied Member 800-999-9321 x1148; [email protected]


Welcome New CA Chapter Members!

*****

Green Design, Majestic Nature and Urban Pioneering APLD Conference 2009 in Portland, Oregon With Post-Conference at the spectacular Columbia River Gorge SAVE BY REGISTERING BEFORE JUNE 12!

First Name

Middle Name

Last Name Company City Membership

Category

Neil Curry The Willow Farm Pescadero AlliedRon Eicher Arborwell Hayward AlliedScot Hunter Kellogg Garden Products Ontario Allied

Suzanne Baird Perennial Designs Westlake Village Associate

Bradley James Bontems Bradley James Bontems Design Los Angeles AssociateLaifun Chung Laifun Designs Inc. Beverly Hills AssociateJane Davis JD Gardens Playa Del Rey AssociateMarilee KuhlmannComfort Zones Garden Design Los Angeles Associate

Bernardo Lopez Bernardo Lopez Garden Design & Installation Berkeley Associate

Gabrielle Newmark Swamp Pink Landscape Design Los Angeles AssociateRonald Saltmarsh Saltmarsh Worldwide Inc. San Francisco AssociateJames Tufts James Tufts Garden Design San Mateo Associate

Alex Duarte-Silva San Francisco Student

Darwin Harrison Oakland StudentSusan Newell Santa Rosa StudentDorothy O'Neill Petaluma StudentChloe Short San Francisco StudentValerie Silva Santa Rosa Student


Laura Morton


Cynthia Sumner


Glenn Hansen


Cheryl Buckwalter


Robin Alyse Doyle


Ramie Allard


visit our website.




Member FAQs



APLD


Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues

The topical focus of this year's conference - Sustainable Design - offers a plethora of proven and innovative ideas through discussion, presentations and garden tours - all in a locale recognized as a national leader with impeccable 'green' credentials. Tours include Portland's downtown Pearl District, its esteemed Japanese Garden, intimate city lots as well as exquisite private spaces. Register today and save: http://www.apld.org/.

*****

The Late Show Gardens - Fall Inaugural Event Addressing Climate Change and Sustainability At Cornerstone, Sonoma - September 18 - 20 The Late Show Gardens this fall unveils groundbreaking design and thought-provoking lectures that present resource-saving ideas to improve our impact on the earth. Born of the unmet needs of gardeners and industry professionals alike, The Late Show Gardens deals head-on, responsibly and thoughtfully, with critical environmental issues. California gardens come through months of summer drought on borrowed water... what if they lived as the wild gardens do, using only winter rains? Visitors will learn about the large palette of Mediterranean plants that survive on winter rains. For three days during harvest season in the beautiful Sonoma Wine Country, guests can stroll through gardens designed by renowned landscape architects, designers, artists and musicians, who present innovative solutions to pressing environmental needs. Informative lectures are scheduled throughout each day featuring speakers such as Mark Hertsgaard (environmental correspondent for The Nation and a prolific writer and lecturer); Dick Turner (Pacific Horticulture editor); Topher Delaney and many more. Gourmet lunches and local wines will be available to enjoy on the grounds. Visitors will find those must-have plants and distinctive items from selected vendors and Cornerstone's merchants that reflect the show's themes. Brainchild of Robin Parer, The Late Show Gardens, (a 501c(3) non-profit) is an alliance of garden design professionals and aficionados that evolved to provide real solutions for problems threatening the Bay Area and the west coast. "A few people still don't believe global warming is real," says Parer, "but it is of tremendous urgency, and we must begin addressing it in our personal lives. The good news is, if we act quickly and smartly, we can help change the way we garden and improve our children's future." Net proceeds will support The Trust for Public Land and The Garden Conservancy. Garden Design magazine is a sponsor. See details at: http://www.thelateshowgardens.org/ MEDIA CONTACT: Kathleen Marmion (415) 225-7709 email: [email protected]

*****

California Dreamin'

Spring is here and the pace of life quickens. Folks wake from their winter slumber, happily dreaming of summer fun under our clear California skies. But for landscape designers, our dreams can be a nightmare: We dream of the warmth of the sun. We dream of spending more time outdoors. We dream of the phone calls for garden design services! We dream of lazy summer days and warm evenings in the garden. And we (some of us anyway) are not quite ready to wake up. Just wanna hit the snooze button -"Gimme five more minutes!"

Spring can be a mixed blessing for some garden designers. Those beautiful dreams (for our


support for all chapter and district programs in California. The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California District programs and meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available) -Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected]. Join the dynamic and informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!



Delta Bluegrass

own gardens) are a distant, future vision of glory, definitely NOT a reality! My front yard has had the same pile of mulch sitting by a weedy lawn for two years, and my husband's truck has smashed a row of bricks so far into the mucky winter clay that they form a small lake. It's like being "the plumber's wife," only there is no plumber! Only me, a shovel, a lot of ground to dig and no time to dig it.

I don't invite clients to my house. When someone stops by and learns that I'm a landscape architect, the reaction is predictable. Raised eyebrows, timid smile, averted eyes, with a shy "oh, how nice for you...." It's not that I don't want a pretty garden, it's just a matter of priority. The money I make from dreaming up landscapes pays the dentist and the piano lessons, the school tuition and the groceries. We can't afford the contractors that install my visions. My crew of sons is not yet big enough to do hard labor without violating child labor laws; yet every spring I check those muscles to see how close we're getting... not done yet - another year or two.

But in my dreams... ahhh, it's a lovely sight! I'm glad I get to help others realize their dreams. And I know some day... mine will come true too. But for now, please give me a few more minutes before I have to wake up.

Submitted by: Susan Suddjian, CAELI Landscape Architecture (831) 479-9603, [email protected]

Other Items of Interest

Water Management Certification Program - Now Available to All of California!

The California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) is pleased to announce that its Water Management Certification Program is now available to anyone in California. Implemented in 2007, the CLCA introduced its Water Management Certification Program in February 2009. The Certification Program demonstrates how to work with advanced irrigation technology and a water budget to reduce landscape water usage. In some cases it also saves money, especially for those with tiered water pricing. For information, click HERE.

*****

It's Easy Being Green CalScape, Las Vegas

The Plantscape Industry Alliance - PIA, Ukiah, CA - will hold CalScape Expo, its national interior plantscape conference and trade show, at the Flamingo in Las Vegas from 30 September through 2 October. Click HERE for details.

*****

Dead Trees Needed!

You may have heard about the restoration project taking place at Muir Beach over the next few years (details at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/projectHome.cfm?parkId=303&projectId=12126.) In 2009, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area plans to create a new creek to replace the existing one that currently runs along a road/parking lot. To ensure the new creek will make great coho habitat, we've been working with salmon experts and a geomorphologist to design a creek with adequate mini-dams to slow down winter water velocity and to reduce premature sediment deposition. These mini-dams will be made of tree trunks (with and without rootwads attached). Our goal is to find *about 80 trees, ranging in height between 10' and 30', with DBHs between 10" and 3' before


Company




August 2009 in or near the Bay Area.*

We're looking for healthy trees - preferably redwood, doug fir, cypress, and pine - that can be (or have recently been) toppled. If you're involved with or aware of any large tree removal projects, please let me know; we can discuss logistics/timelines/compensation directly with you.

Susie Bennett Project Coordinator and Wildlife Monitor Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy http://www.parksconservancy.org/ office: (415) 561-3075; cell: (415) 683-8459

*****

Waste Not, Want ... what?

Thoughts on waste; first, some numbers: Americans toss 106,000 aluminum cans every 30 seconds; 1 million plastic cups are distributed on US airline flights every 6 hours; 2 million plastic beverage bottles are used up every 5 minutes; 426,000 cell phones are discarded every day; 1.14 million brown paper supermarket bags used every hour; 60,000 plastic bags used every 5 seconds; Yard trimmings represent 13% of municipal solid waste; food scraps 12%; paper 33%. The life of a plastic bag that holds our veggies is 15 seconds.

Many of us are aware of the destruction this waste creates. Yet figures reported as municipal solid waste do not address the 'upstream' gross national trash - industrial waste created as a by-product of manufacturing. The municipal solid waste figures represent a mere 2.5% of gross national trash. The figures are staggering. Anyone interested in learning more, see extensive reports in the June issue of Mother Jones magazine: MotherJones.com. Makes redundant the question: paper or plastic? Submitted by Katey Mulligan, APLD LIQUIDAMBAR Garden Design

*****

Arborist Exam Study and Continuing Education Merritt College Prepare for the Certified Arborist Exam (scheduled for July 11, 2009) or upgrade your arboriculture knowledge and skills. Click HERE for details.



Date Wed-Thu, June 3-4, 2009Title California Chapter Board MeetingSponsored by California ChapterContact Tina Roushall, Chapter Secretary, [email protected]


Cost None.


Description


Date Tuesday, June 9, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PMTitle The Designer's Orchard: Citrus and other Fruit Trees Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected] Info http://www.fourwindsgrowers.com/Cost Free to members. Visitors: $10.00. Students with id: $5.00. Location Four Winds Growers, 42186 Palm Ave, Fremont, CA 94539

Description

Please note NON-STANDARD location!! After our wonderful excursion to Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery in May, we are pleased to announce another outdoor adventure! We hope you will join us on-site at Four Winds Growers in Fremont for a great introduction to the immense variety available in citrus and other fruit trees. Featuring Ed Laivo and Aaron & Don Dillon.

Date Wednesday, June 10, 2009, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM Title Earth Friendly Garden Tour: Case Studies in Sustainable Design Sponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] APLD members $10; non-members $18.

Location Starting in Cotati at FrogSong Co-Housing, 8290 Old Redwood Highway, Cotati, and ending in Sebastopol. Carpooling to be arranged. Meet for coffee beforehand at Redwood Cafe Coffee House & Grill, 8240 Old Redwood Hwy, Cotati, CA.

Description

APLD North Bay District presents the Earth Friendly Garden Tour: Case Studies in Sustainable Design. Join us as we take a look at projects where sustainable principles have been at the forefront of the design and see how beautifully they can be incorporated. We'll tour four unique Sonoma County projects in Cotati and Sebastopol, talk with the designers/builders who took these projects from concept through installation, and learn about their process first hand. Our tour begins with a presentation by Patrick Picard of Equinox Landscape at FrogSong, a multi-family co-housing community in Cotati. Then we'll take a short walk up the street to view the La Plaza Garden designed by Sustainable Living Designs, an example of sustainable design in a public setting. We'll carpool to Ragle Ranch Park in Sebastopol to break for lunch, and then travel a short distance to an in-progress large scale rural project by Erik Olsen of Permaculture Earth Artisans to see how permaculture principles and earthworks are being integrated as design elements. Our last garden of the day will be presented by Rick Taylor of Elder Creek Landscapes; this site demonstrates how water catchment can be applied on a small residential scale. Each of these brilliant designers will present specific background, philosophies, strategies employed, constraints, successes and challenges and will then be available to answer your questions. Lunch provided by a generous gift of support from APLD Gold Sponsor Wheeler-Zamaroni Stone Fabrication and Landscape Materials. Registration: Event limited to 30 participants. Registration is due now; please send your confirmation today. To receive your


registration package or for more information, please contact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] .

Date Tuesday, June 16, 2009 4:30 PM - 6:30 PMTitle Design SalonSponsored by San Francisco DistrictContact Cynde AveLallemant, [email protected]. Please RSVP. Cost APLD Members: Free; Non-APLD Members: $10 Location Katey Mulligan's Residence, 280 Andover Street @ Courtland,

San Francisco, CA 94110

Description

Great opportunity to ask questions of your peers in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere! Bring a current project, address topics of interest to your business development, or just enjoy the company of other APLD members. SPACE IS LIMITED. With your RSVP, please indicate if you have a project or a topic you would like to discuss.

Date Wednesday, June 24, 2009, 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Title Summer Edibles Garden PartySponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain, [email protected] Cost To be announced.Location To be announced.Description To be announced. Date Wednesday, July 8, 2009Title North Bay District/Board MeetingSponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] Cost To be determined.Location To be determined.

Description Bring a favorite plant to exchange and share your favorite resources/vendors.

Date Tuesday, July 14, 2009Title No East Bay District Meeting in JulySponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected]

Description The East Bay District meeting for July has been cancelled. We hope you will all take the opportunity to attend the 2009 APLD International Conference in Portland.

Date Wednesday, July 22, 2009Title No Peninsula District Meeting in JulySponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain, [email protected] Description No Peninsula District meeting is scheduled for July. Date Friday, July 24, 2009Title East Bay District Board MeetingSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary, [email protected] Location Location varies. Contact District Secretary for further

information.

Description







Please scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of these events. And be sure to visit our online Events calendar (www.apldca.org/Events.aspx ) for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (20th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members. Wed, July 8, 2009 District/Board Mtg. North Bay District Tue, July 14, 2009 No East Bay Mtg. East Bay District Tue, July 21, 2009 No SF Mtg. San Francisco District Wed, July 22, 2009 No Peninsula Mtg. Peninsula District Fri, July 24, 2009 District Board Mtg. East Bay District Tue, August 11, 2009 The Making of a Greenroof East Bay District Wed, August 12, 2009 North Bay District Tue, August 18, 2009 Water Conservation Strategies San Francisco District Wed, August 26, 2009 Vendor Sponsor Fair Peninsula District

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

APLD California Chapter July 2009 Newsletter


If you haven’t yet seen the new Pixar movie, “Up”, I’m jealous. The experience of watching the film for the first time, particularly the marriage sequence, is so moving and so lovely, I just can’t imagine it will be the same when I see it again. Seeing a team of people at the top of their craft, creating an absolutely unique and spellbinding story full of delight and not a few tears, is a truly uplifting experience. Perhaps I’m easily moved, yet I bet you’d be surprised to hear I also got a bit

verklempt at our most recent board meeting. I didn’t expect this to happen. All I did was ask a simple question, “What brought you here?” We had convened a meeting of the District and Regional Council, and leaders from each of our northerly districts attended, along with some of our committee chairs. This sort of ice-breaker is standard fare at such meetings. I expected everyone to rattle off their usual bio, then dive into the business at hand. Instead I heard some of the most heartfelt, personal and generous descriptions of why the people sitting around that table chose to serve APLD. Some simply said they believed in giving back. Others responded to a specific and personal request for help when it was needed. Still others minced no words, saying they saw things that needed to change in our organization, and they were determined to set APLD on a different, and better, course. My own point of origin as a volunteer in my district, and now as chapter president, encompasses all these factors. But there is one thing I can say in all honesty. I felt immensely under-qualified to take on the job that was asked of me, which was simply to take minutes for a district meeting. I had no idea what to do or how to do it. But I got help and it turned out ok. Then I became interested in being secretary and doing it more often. Maryanne Quincy teamed up with me so I didn’t have to do it alone. As my confidence grew, I was ready to take on the challenge of serving as secretary at the chapter level. Maryanne and I teamed up again. Since that time, my APLD volunteer service has offered me countless opportunities to learn new skills, be mentored by incredible role models, and face challenges that required me to ask for help from others. And during those times when I needed and received help from my colleagues, I learned and grew the most. Watching my colleagues sitting around the table together, telling their own stories,

APLDCA Newsletter - July 2009 Page 1 of 9


moved me to tears. Was it pride, joy, happiness, melancholy or admiration? I’m not sure where they came from; it was the same feeling I had watching a great film that required the best of its creators. I was among a truly dedicated and generous group of people who really care about APLD and you, our members. Getting to know each one of them better, and taking the time to hear their stories, helped me understand in a fundamental way how important it is to know where we have come from and why we were all in the room. Layered into that experience of appreciation for this talented group was a realization that most of these district leaders are relatively new leaders in APLD, just as I was when I joined the chapter board. This is a great year of transition, both for our board and for the organization as a whole. We have been through the process of establishing ourselves and developing basic services and systems: Website: check. Up-to-date member rosters: check. Checking account balanced: check and check… We are a young organization, yet we’ve slogged through some of the mundane but essential issues we had to address just to function, sometimes against great odds. Along the way, there have been opportunities for all of us to see the enormous potential of APLD in California, particularly in the incredible growth and quality of our district programming. As I looked around the room a bit glassy-eyed, I felt more strongly than ever that it’s time to turn over the reins to a new set of vital, energetic, incredibly creative leaders. They have a vision, they have been listening to you and have come to the table prepared to get the work done. And they need your support to realize the ambitious goals we are now shaping. This is where you come in. You are the future. And we ask you to lend your vitality and talent to make APLD more relevant and useful than ever to our members, our allied organizations, and our sponsors. Every one of you - at the chapter and district levels - will be asked to assume one task as we journey higher. (Not so high that we leave behind our foundations, for those of you who have seen the movie, so no worries there.) But please be ready. We ask you to hold just one balloon that when joined in a rainbow of colors with all the others, will raise us all to a higher plane. You choose the color, you choose the size and how long you want to hang on. Just get ready to stretch your arms.

Maureen Decombe President APLD California Chapter News from...


Hello from the Greater LA District Laura Morton, President

Since the beginning of 2009, the Greater LA District has been germinating and setting down roots. Stephanie Bartron planted the seed, and like the good California natives we aspire to be, scheduled regular meetings - like rainfall during the winter season. These have taken hold and we are on our way. A huge thanks to Maureen and Colleen for their kindness, guidance and mentoring. We couldn't have tackled this without you. Current Vice President and Secretary Stephanie Bartron has been essential, bringing her tireless, graceful energy to the process. We also are very excited about



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establishing a Sustainability Chair on our Board: Mayita Dinos has stepped up to this position. We look forward to her input as we plan upcoming events. Our Treasurer is Linda McKendry, Ramie Allard leads Communications. Click here to read more...

News from the North Bay Cynthia Sumner, President 2009 started for the North Bay District with some catching up: at our January Board meeting we established goals for the year to include:

Expanding visibility through outreach to CLCA, Sponsors, Water Agencies, and garnering media exposure. A promotional brochure is being considered, along with PR to related industry organizations such as Bay Friendly and CLCA Providing educational opportunities and workshops for members as well as non-members Increasing membership and enhancing the experience for existing members through the highest quality programs and networking Using a "multi-stacking" approach to produce events that include connecting with our sponsors, education for members, and outreach to others.

We established Committees and Chairs for Membership, Sponsorship, Communications, Program/Events, and Sustainability/Education. We have scheduled monthly meetings and a draft outline of events, fleshing them out as we move along. Click here to read more...

Awards and Recognition


CLCA Beautification Award Winner APLD chapter member Jackie Scheidlinger won a 2008 CLCA Beautification Award from the San Fernando Valley Chapter. Designed by Jackie and installed by Larson Landscaping, the garden was awarded First Place in the Custom Residential category. Contact Jackie at: phone # 818-825-8980, email: [email protected]

CLCA San Francisco Bay Area 2009 Achievement Awards APLD California Chapter Peninsula District Certified and Associate members contributing to winning projects

Designer Contractor Project Name Award Category

Astrid Gaiser Coast Landscape Fejerne-Ibrahimkhail Small Residential


APLD


Directors


Vice President:

Joni Wilson, APLD


Colleen Hamilton


If you have an interest in serving as Treasurer, please

contact: [email protected]

Secretary:

Tina Roushall



Katey Mulligan


Calendar:

Sharon Gibson


Membership Chair:

Janet Enright


Public Outreach


APLD California Chapter Peninsula District Allied member companies also winning awards

Another Sunset Feature

Ketti Kupper was again featured on page 56 of June's Sunset Magazine: ‘Design That Works.' This Garden Gallery has more detailed information on the Sunset Blog - Fresh Dirt: http://freshdirt.sunset.com/

Management, Inc.Lesley Peters Coney Landscaping Brown Residence Small ResidentialLesley Peters Girvin Peters Landscape Los Altos Manor Small ResidentialLesley Peters Girvin Peters Landscape Younkin Resdience Small ResidentialLaura Schaub Samscaping, Inc. Pope Residence Medium ResidentialRick Fath Landmark Landscapes Snow Residence Medium ResdentialAllison Olson Modern Landscaping,

Inc.Friend Residence Medium Renovation

Astrid Gaiser Coast Landscape Management, Inc.

Keller Residence Large Renovation

Fran Adams, APLD Confidence Landscaping Richardson Residence XeriscapeLesley Peters Girvin Peters Landscape Putney Residence Custom ResidentialLaura Schaub Samscaping, Inc. Mullaney Residence Residential Estate

Allied Member Project Category Coast Landscape Management, Inc. Stuart Sweet Medium ResidentialModern Landscaping, Inc. Oi Residence Large ResidentialModern Landscaping, Inc. Bella Vista II Multi ResidentialCoast Landscape Management Inc. Anritsu Company Medium RenovationCoast Landscape Management Inc. Keller Residence Small Residential MaintenanceCoast Landscape Management Inc. Perkins Residence Large Residential MaintenanceEvLand, LLC Giannandrea Res. Custom Residential


Mini Photo Essay in Garden Redesign Soleil Tranquilli, Garden Designer/Owner Tranquill Gardens [email protected] These photos of Mary Lou’s Elk Grove backyard in spring 2009 demonstrate her amazing gardening skills. When I first met Mary Lou in fall 2008, however, she wasn’t satisfied with the previous design’s planting scheme. The hardscape worked, but disjointed colors needed modulation, plant sizes and spacings were askew. Mary Lou wanted a designer chic makeover. She knew all the ‘in’ garden spots for plants and supplies. GULP! She had a sophisticated eye. I wondered if I could keep pace with her edgy tastes! Overcrowding of plant materials, lack of pruning, and Mary Lou’s plantaholic habits all contributed to the jumbled demise of her garden. This I could fix, I’ve been there myself! We pruned, researched, spotted plants and endlessly moved around objects for months. Don earned countless husband points for his cheerful ‘honey-dos.’ At one point




Susanne Frey


Laura Morton



Glenn Hansen


Cheryl Buckwalter


Robin Alyse Doyle

Southern California Region: Ramie Allard


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I forbade Mary Lou to buy more plants until she made hard choices for removal. OUCH! We added background color, reshaped shrubs and talked design. The dry streambed had hidden potential. She experimented with mirror formations to add astonishing dimension to her suburban backyard, especially when viewed from the patio doorway. This delightful garden will never be ‘finished,’ the owner is a restlessly creative diva. But a quiet moment in time there is lovely…. Green Tip - Rain Barrels Katey Mulligan, APLD LIQUIDAMBAR Garden Design Anyone interested in obtaining sturdy repurposed barrels to harvest rainwater can check out the Half Moon Bay Feed and Fuel store at 331 Main Street: 650.726.4814. The store sells the used containers of their animal feed supplies for $20 each! These are heavy-duty barrels with screw-on caps/lids and a screw-cap in the lid to contain your drainpipe. The store also sells a variety of aluminum troughs which you can use for veggie beds, water features, raised planters and whatever. And while you’re there, you can buy some little chicks! Voila - Lovely Lomandra! Katey Mulligan, APLD LIQUIDAMBAR Garden Design A much sought-after ornamental grass - Lomandra confertifolia - is now available through Emerisa: http://www.emerisa.com/. One Lomandra confertifolia spp. Rubiginosa ‘Seascape’ is a lovely non-invasive, easy to maintain perennial with fine long blue-gray foliage; once established, it requires little water and also is frost hardy. Grows to about 20 inches with; other Lomandra varieties are available as well. Many Little Hammers –An IPM Refresher Frank Niccoli, The Village Gardener We are all familiar with the analogy that continuously dripping water eventually will crack the stone. That same process applies to managing pests with Integrated Pest Management - IPM tactics. We use many little hammers to suppress plant problems by minimizing conditions they need to survive. An elegant method of progressively using stronger tactics is illustrated in the IPM Pyramid developed by Penn State (See link below). At the base are the least toxic tactics; moving up from the base, prevention decreases as intervention increases. As you read this, please refer back to the pyramid to understand how it works. And as a favor to me, read this article twice before you put it aside. Somewhere between the first and second reading, you will have an ‘Aha’ moment. Click here for more...

Workshops, Events and Shows




More Lessons in Sustainable Gardening Susi Torre-Bueno, Symposium Coordinator If you’re in Southern California, learn more about gardening in harmony with the climate by attending the upcoming symposium in Santa Barbara: Gardening Under Mediterranean Skies VII: Lessons in Sustainable Gardening. The dates are October 3-4, and in addition to great lectures by experts Carol Bornstein, Owen Dell and Pamela Berstler, you’ll tour SEVEN outstanding private estates and public gardens. Enjoy lunch at Ganna Walska Lotusland and a wine and cheese reception at Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens; stroll through some of the most exciting landscapes you’ve ever seen; and meet the brilliant landscape architects who have created these exceptional water-thrifty gardens. Over 100 people are already registered, a lively mix of horticultural professionals and passionate hands-on gardeners. If you're planning to attend please mail your payment without delay: (http://www.pacifichorticulture.org/programs.php ). APLD is rating this symposium at 8.5 CEUs (http://apldca.mhsoftware.com/ViewCal.html). Click here for PDF version. Add a taste of OZ to your garden! Refresh your Australian Repertoire: Learn how to mix exciting and appropriate Australian native plants in Bay Area gardens. The Garden Conservancy & Ruth Bancroft Garden Present: 2009 Ruth Bancroft Garden Horticultural Series Friday–Saturday, July 10–11 Walnut Creek, CA Australians, Part II; Co-sponsored by Pacific Horticulture magazine. An excellent panel of speakers will lobby for mixing Australian native plants with California natives and plants from other Mediterranean climates. These advocates are expert in growing conditions favored by the Australians - mixing their bright colors and strong forms in tantalizing garden compositions. The seminar will introduce exciting new plants available in the nursery trade and increase our collective understanding of native habitats and creative planting design from other regions. Learn more about this program HERE: Register Online or Download Registration Form Call 415/441-4300 or email [email protected] The Late Show Gardens - Updates September 18-20, 2009 9:30 am – 5:30 pm The intimate layout of this garden show at Cornerstone Sonoma will allow visitors to personally experience a different approach to the crucial issues of water conservation and climate change while celebrating beautiful design. Through gardens and lectures, visitors will learn about the large palette of plants from many Mediterranean climates around the world that can be utilized using the winter rains. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how creative and interesting garden design can be both socially responsible and personally rewarding: http://www.thelateshowgardens.org/ AFFORDABLE TICKETS from $10–$20. See web site for discounts. Buy before 8/1/09 and save $5/per Adult ticket. Children under 6 FREE at Cornerstone Sonoma, 23570 Highway 121 (Arnold Drive), Sonoma, CA 95476







Another Kind of Garden Show A comprehensive, statewide-focused flower and garden show will debut April 8, 9, 10 and 11 of 2010 at Cal Expo in Sacramento. The new show, produced by Cal State Shows, is designed to capture the diversity of California's horticultural and gardening community, showcasing plants, techniques and products representative of the state's numerous micro-climates. Show director and owner of Cal State Shows, Sherry Larsen explains the show's concept: "Although other shows in Northern California have provided beautiful landscape displays, we felt they did not fully capture the diversity of the California gardening community. Our goal is to bring together a broader segment of gardeners and landscapers to share their common interests and ideas." For information on exhibiting contact Cal State Shows at 877.696.6668. For more information: http://www.calstategardenshow.com/ Click here for full details.


Please visit our online Events calendar for the most up-to-date information on all APLD events, as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members. www.apldca.org/Events.aspx

Back to TopDate Wednesday, July 8, 2009Title North Bay District/Board MeetingSponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] Cost To be determined.Location To be determined.

Description Bring a favorite plant to exchange and share your favorite resources/vendors. Back to Top

Date Tuesday, July 14, 2009Title No East Bay District Meeting in JulySponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected]

Description The East Bay District meeting for July has been cancelled. We hope you will all take the opportunity to attend the 2009 APLD International Conference in Portland. Back to Top

Date Tuesday July 21, 2009Title No San Francisco District Meeting in July Sponsored by San Francisco DistrictContact Cynde AvéLallemant, [email protected] Location Location varies. Contact District Secretary for further

information.

Description We hope you will all take the opportunity to attend the 2009 APLD International Conference in Portland. Back to Top

Date Wednesday, July 22, 2009Title No Peninsula District Meeting in July Sponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain, [email protected] Description No Peninsula District meeting is scheduled for July.

Back to TopDate Friday, July 24, 2009Title East Bay District Board Meeting


Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary, [email protected]


Description

Regularly-scheduled planning and coordination meeting of the APLDCA East Bay District Board of Directors. District members and sponsors are welcome to attend these meetings, but due to limited space, arrangements must be made prior to the meeting by contacting the District Secretary. Back to Top

Date Tuesday August 11, 2009; 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Title The Making of a Greenroof: The Buttner-Chang ProjectSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected]

Cost Members: $5.00. Visitors: $15.00. Non-Member Students with id: $10.00. ($5.00 is for room rental).


Description

Presented by Cynthia Tanyan, APLD East Bay Distric Member. From a vision a decade before, by early 2005, the structural construction for the 6,000 sf of this modern home's sloped roof was finished and waterproofed. All that was needed was to plant it -- or so it was thought! Beginning with a summary of greenroof history, environmental benefits, types, styles, and terminology, this talk will take you through the process of research and discovery in the design and installation of an extensive greenroof (as seen in People magazine). From designing soil, to a system for preventing it from sliding off the roof, Cynthia will share her slides on the layers of construction, methods, plantings and people that contributed to the final success of this living roof project completed three years ago. We'll also discuss why this trend is gaining momentum in the U.S. Come and learn about this fast growing industry, and what we all, as landscape professionals, need to know to take full advantage of this opportunity. Back to Top

Date Wednesday, August 12, 2009Title Sponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] for details Location

Description

North Bay District meetings for 2009 are tentatively set for the 2nd Wednesday of the month (with exceptions). Locations and times to be determined. Please see individual entries in this calendar for more details about a specific month's event(s). Plans for later in the year include: September 2009 Picnic or BBQ anyone? District Meeting and Social Event with CLCA and sponsors-- (Sponsorship drive month) October 2009 Tour of Academy of Sciences: An Inside Look at the Living Roof. More information to come about this special event! October or early November 2009 Strategic Planning for 2010; District/Board Meeting (half day) last week of October or first week of November. Member input requested. Help create the new Board and shape the program of events for coming year. Late November or early December 2009 Social Event & Membership Drive. Introduce incoming Board for 2010 and celebrate being a member!


Back to TopDate Tuesday August 18, 2009; 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM Title Water Conservation Strategies, Part 1: Incorporating

Greywater SystemsSponsored by San Francisco DistrictContact Cynde AvéLallemant -- Please RSVP! [email protected] APLD Members: $15; Non-APLD Members: $25 Location San Francisco County Fair Building

Golden Gate Park, 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San Francisco

Description

Join Laura Allen of The Greywater Guerrillas and John Russell of WaterSprout as they present information landscape designers need to knowledgeably discuss greywater options with clients. Learn the basis of a greywater system and the types of systems that are available; gain skills to calculate the amount of water potential and how that translates into landscape usage, and take this opportunity to ask questions of these experienced educators. Laura Allen is co-founder of The Greywater Guerrillas, a collaborative group of educators, designers, builders, and artists who educate and empower people to build sustainable water culture and infrastructure. She is also co-editor of Dam Nation: Dispatches from the Water Underground. http://www.greywaterguerrillas.com/ John Russell is owner of WaterSprout, a design/build landscape firm specializing in residential and commercial greywater, rainwater catchment, and irrigation efficiency. John designed and installed the first permitted greywater system in Berkeley and soon to be the first system in San Francisco. http://watersprout.org/ Back to Top

Date Wednesday August 26, 2009; 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Title Sponsor Vendor FairSponsored by Peninsula District

Contact Shannon Swain; [email protected] RSVP encouraged, but not required.

Cost Free for all APLD members, $10 for non-members and $5 for students with student IDs.

Location To be determinedDescription For details contact: [email protected]






Please click here or scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of the events below. And be sure to visit our online Events calendar, (www.apldca.org/Events.aspx) for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (20th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to members. Tue, August 11, 2009 The Making of a Greenroof East Bay District Tue, August 18, 2009 Water Calculations for the New State Water Ordinance North Bay District Tue, August 18, 2009 Water Conservation Strategies San Francisco District Wed, August 26, 2009 Vendor Sponsor Fair Peninsula District Tue, September 8, 2009 Invasive Plants and Garden Thugs East Bay District Wed, September 9, 2009 North Bay District Meetings North Bay District Fri, September 11, 2009 The 'Q' Sacramento District Tue, September 15, 2009 Water Conservation

APLD California Chapter August 2009 Newsletter


Put Down Those Tap Roots "She couldn't grow a dandelion in compost." My shameful fear was that this supreme insult to gardeners might apply to me. And it did. I had tried to grow a dandelion and failed. Five times. Why would I intentionally grow a weed? Many years ago I was lucky enough to serve a six

month internship as the Herb Society of America fellow at the U. S. National Herb Garden in Washington, DC's National Arboretum. I planted and maintained hundreds of species of herbs, or as we liked to call them, the "useful plants". My favorite space in the five-acre garden was the series of 10 specialty gardens. Each of the gardens was imbued with meaning, reflecting the purpose and history of the plants it contained: plants for fragrance, sources of oils and lubricants for industry, food plants and herbs brought to the New World by colonists who reconnected with their home far away through the taste and use of familiar plants. It was in the Colonial Garden that I suffered failure after failure trying to grow the simplest and most tenacious of weeds--the dandelion. How could our visitors know of the special qualities of the lowly and underappreciated dandelion--the Dent-de-Lion (Lion's Tooth), aka pissenlit(Pee-in-the-Bed, a mild diuretic) or White Endive (a piquant young salad green) -- when each time I transplanted a vibrant specimen from the nearby lawn, it soon withered and died? The entire plant is useful for nutritious greens, wine from the flowers, and the roots can be dried and used for a coffee substitute, but no such luck for me. We had one plant, a big fat hummock dug from just a few yards away that held on for a few days, succumbing on the fourth day like all the others. Upon seeing the sad, wilting mass of desiccated leaves, my boss stopped

APLDCA Newsletter - August 2009 Page 1 of 12

Strategies, PART II: Rainwater Catchment San Francisco District Fri, September 25, 2009 East Bay District Board Meeting East Bay District

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

teasing me and started to question whether I'd properly watered-in the plants. I could almost feel her thinking, "If she can't grow a dandelion, maybe she ought to go into computers." Finally, it became clear what was happening. The taproot. These plants are such tenacious survivors because their first order of business is to send down a deep taproot. This taproot serves multiple purposes, stabilizing the plant, enabling it to pull nutrients and water from deep within the soil and --the quality we have all cursed-- when the plant is yanked from the ground, the taproot lurks patiently below, sending up fresh green growth to replace the missing leaf mass. Taproots are the saviors of numerous plants faced with catastrophes of one form or another. They allow plants to sprout anew after hard freezes, construction or other adverse conditions cause a loss of leaf mass. We humans can learn much about the value of digging down to find our deepest inner reserves of creativity and resources in order to weather dramatic changes in our "climate". I've heard from many designers who are concerned about the future of our industry. Things have changed, and with this acknowledgement we must face new realities and alter our marketing strategies by stepping out of the tried-and-true and looking for new ways to serve our clientele. Many of our members have begun offering garden coaching or consulting services, working with the client for several hours to guide them in DIY projects as they defer large garden installations. Others have joined together to partner with licensed contractors to approximate a design-build approach. Still others are using the slowdown to deepen and develop their skills through continuing education. A few of you have told me about your plans to explore a new avenue in which your talents can shine. All are the right things to do. We expand our horizons by opening our world rather than folding down in the face of challenges; by calling upon our inner reserves to fuel a new flush of growth; by sending seeds to float upon the winds to establish new taproots in a different garden or meadow. Once I learned that the dandelion wants to start with a fresh taproot in a new location, I succeeded in growing from seed a nice patch of Irish Daisy, Blowball, Telltime... Personally, I've taken this slow time as an opportunity to develop my own garden. As a new homeowner, working on a tight budget, this has given me an entirely new perspective particularly because, out of necessity, mine is a "Slow Garden". I'm not in search of perfection, nor do I expect instant results. Even if these were my desires, they are simply not an option. I know I won't get around to the lighting or the fountains for another few months; and because everything is planted from 4" pots or one gallons, the garden will take years to develop. In planting this garden and relying on my own two hands to build my walls and pathways, I've reconnected with deep inner resources of patience, insight, and tolerance of my own imperfections. And I've given myself the joy of walking out my own door into a haven from the challenges and




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disappointments of the world. The benefit of putting down this taproot, here in my new home, is reward enough for the hard work in finding the right place, the right way, and the right time to plant the seed.


News from...


Greetings All from East Bay District! Susanne Frey, East Bay District President In the spirit of sharing our successes, I'd like to highlight some of the events of this year and the exciting challenges we face next year. We started 2009 with a very well received in-house "Designer's Favorites" program. We all shared our top 5 favorite plants along with our top 5 nemesis plants that should come with a warning label. A plant swap followed and all walked away feeling like winners. Our next meeting with Linda Gates, a practicing L/A serving on the Landscape Architectural Technical Committee, was also well attended as we discussed the legal parameters for Landscape Designers. Linda's open approachable style allowed us to direct our often pointed questions to her and receive knowledgeable answers. As part of our slate of Spring Programs, we made a conscious effort to include sponsors - being mindful that it is important for us to support them as they support us. Consequently, we invited Jim Patterson of Brickyard Building Materials to speak about their huge variety of brick, block, stone and bulk materials, as well as fireplaces and BBQs. We also included an off-site program at Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery -another Gold Sponsor. The cordial knowledgeable staff at Devil Mountain provided a delightful display of choice new plant introductions and discussed the merits of each. We were also treated to a tour of the nursery that included the new specialty succulent section. As Designers, we never tire of fabulous new plant material! We filled out our Spring Programming with Sheri Osaka, the owner of Sustainable Landscape Designs, addressing techniques, irrigation systems, recycled materials, and California natives that speak to sustainable design. June took us to another off-site location in Fremont when we visited Four Winds Nursery. Four Winds specializes in fruit trees and berries and their immense variety as well astounding


APLD


Directors


Vice President:

Joni Wilson, APLD


Colleen Hamilton

Acting Treasurer:

plant expertise provided us with new exciting insights into edible landscaping. A hidden jewel that we should all discover in East Bay! As President, I maintain bragging rights of our talented membership. They put together two workshops this spring; the first exploring the process of Certification and the second involved another of our Gold Sponsors, Unique Lighting. This evening event, with power point presentation, featured the very dramatic effects of night lighting in a private garden. A picture is most definitely worth a thousand words! Also, we promoted APLD at the very popular and highly publicized Secret Gardens of the East Bay Garden Tour by staging a booth to educate the public on APLD in general and about Landscape Designers specifically. Our very talented work force captured a large audience by creating a beautiful booth, offering free demonstrations of tufa planters, and a drawing for free 1-hour consults on site with a designer. All in all - a wonderful first half to 2009 with more great programs to come! And for a sneak peak at what is proving to be the dynamic exciting event of 2010 - East Bay District is breaking new ground within our international organization by staging a Fall Garden Tour. It will be open to the public and feature designed gardens by our own talented and creative membership. Our behind the scenes energetic Garden Tour Committee is powerfully working to generate an impelling event that we hope will eventually expand statewide - even nationwide. THINK BIG! - Embrace the world! News from...

Our Members

Green Design, Majestic Nature, Urban Pioneering Report from the Portland APLD Conference Katey Mulligan, APLD LIQUIDAMBAR Garden Design Each of these title categories was abundantly displayed during the Portland APLD conference. From very hip and eclectic private spaces to native and food-producing suburban gardens, green design is de rigueur in this pedestrian-oriented city.


Tina Roushall If you have an interest

in serving as Treasurer, please contact:

[email protected]

Secretary: Tina Roushall

Communications Chair:

Li Vellinga

Newsletter / Editor: Katey Mulligan

Newsletter / Production:

Sharon Petersen

Calendar: Sharon Gibson

Website / Technology:

Sharon Gibson

Membership Chair: Janet Enright

Sponsorship Chair:

Karen Hunt


Susan Morrison



Susanne Frey


Laura Morton


Cynthia Sumner

Peninsula District President: Glenn Hansen

Sacramento District

President: Cheryl Buckwalter

San Francisco District

President: Robin Alyse Doyle

Beginning with an introduction to Portland’s evolution as a leader in sustainable design, visits to and presentations about the classical Chinese and Japanese gardens followed. Next, a ‘walk-about’ the restored Pearl District. We stopped for respite from the 90+ degree heat at many excellent water spots and pocket gardens, envying the children’s freedom to romp in the Jamison Square pond and Tanner Springs – two of four urban parks completed in that area. Lawrence Halprin’s magnificent Ira Keller Fountain also proved irresistible during those sizzling temperatures. Portland allows the fountain’s dramatic platforms and terraces to be used for their intended purpose - as oases to be enjoyed, splashed in and sat upon - not just as a monument to be observed. Lake Oswego’s 10th Street rain gardens project further demonstrates Portland’s urban pioneering spirit. Covering over half mile and almost 50 homes along a quiet residential street, storm-water gardens wind along pathways and through front gardens to create screened areas for cars and safe access for pedestrians – in addition to cleansing and redirecting run-off. The informative tour was led by that city’s engineer and other project leaders. Other tours included visits to some of the area’s well-known nurseries; (how can we get that gorgeous purple-flowering Brugmansia from Sean Hogan?) Among numerous APLD awards, one was presented to Isabelle Greene, a huge surprise to those of us who admire her work. Her comments were extremely gracious and included a big ‘hurrah’ to the visionaries who took charge of their destiny by establishing the APLD. Post-conference activities around Hood River included stunning views of Mt. Hood, identifying wildflowers around Timberline Lodge, hiking the old growth forest along Old Salmon River - majestic nature at its most majestic. A quick trip across Maya Lin’s Land Bridge in Vancouver, Washington, introduced us to the first of seven planned Confluence Project sites along the Columbia River basin. To our colleagues to the north, a huge thank you for the endless patience, good humor and hard work. And next time you visit this area, bring along the APLD conference map and guidelines for a great overview and introduction to a warm, green, people-friendly city. Green Tip – a miracle cure Frank Niccoli, The Village Gardener In the interesting world of compost teas and garden potions, I have some interesting news for those who aspire to the organic. For many years, peach leaf curl has plagued us with its unsightly deformation of leafs, prompting clients to search for the miracle we landscape managers were unable to deliver. No more! I have found the cure - kelp sprayed on deformed leafs about twice a month solves the problem. It is not the nitrogen in the kelp that cures. It’s the trace elements in the kelp that transform the peach leaf curl into new leafs, pushing the diseased leaves to their demise. Timing does not seem to be an issue. Just spray 1 ounce of



Ramie Allard


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Member FAQs



APLD


Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues support for all chapter and district programs in California. The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California District programs and

kelp per gallon of water onto the peach leaf curl and wait for your miracle. You will see results in about two weeks. I recommend follow-up sprayings every two weeks until you are sure the problem is eliminated. mailto:[email protected] New Sculpture Collection Jennifer Asher Greater LA Chapter member and artist Jennifer Asher of ChilmarkGardens.com, announces her new collection of modern outdoor sculpture (TerraSculpture.com). Her pieces were featured in Garden Design Magazine July/August '09 issue, page 16. Here's a link to her blog which has a reprint of the article: www.TerraSculpture.com --click on "blog" link. Jennifer can be reached at [email protected] or [email protected]. There's also a great post written by fellow APLD member Jane Berger (out of Washington DC) on her blog Garden Design Online: www.gardendesignonline.com/gardendesignonline/2009/04/garden-sculptures-for-the-modern-age.html News from...

Awards and Recognition

Sweepstakes Award Winner Jan Gross APLD member, Jan Gross, of Heritage Landscapes in San Anselmo, won the Landscape Management Sweepstakes Award at the North Coast CLCA Beautification Awards ceremony. They also won the First Place for Custom Residential Installation. 415-458-8151 ext 2, mailto:[email protected]


meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available) -Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected]. Join the dynamic and informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!



Delta Bluegrass

Multi Award Winner at CLCA Beautification Awards Laifun Chung APLD chapter member Laifun Chung garnered 3 trophies at the 50th Annual, CLCA Beautification Awards, hosted by the San Fernando Valley Chapter. 1/ First Place for Water Features, Franklin Project 2/ Outstanding Achievement for Small Residential Landscape, Franklin Project 3/ Outstanding Achievement for Xeriscape Landscape, Los Hermosos Project Laifun is also a licensed landscape contractor (#C27-909383) and is a member of CLCA. She personally builds and installs her own designs with her own crew. Contact: [email protected] or check out www.LaifunDesigns.com. 13451 Firth Dr. Beverly Hills , CA 90210.

310-273-1565, c: 310-497-5337

Workshops, Events and Shows

Sketch-up Anyone? Robin Alyse Doyle Those who attended my February introductory Sketch-Up demonstration with Cynde AvéLallemant may remember my passionate recommendation of Chris Grampp's SketchUp Pro class at Merritt College. The class begins Wednesday 26 August from 6 - 8:50 pm. Billed as an "Introduction to the Sketch-Up 3D drawing software program, the class covers basic operating procedures, drawing and editing tools, and 3D drawing and presentation techniques for making presentations to clients, contractors, and other professionals." The entire class (a full semester) costs only $30 and I think Chris gives you the Pro version of software--what a bargain! From Chris Grampp: "In the Sketchup Pro class we work with what I believe is one of the most promising pieces of landscape design software, one that lets you design in 3D without the complexities of traditional CAD programs. I hate to see this class cut, especially because it is on the cutting edge and in so many ways supports the future of design technique and execution." Click here for more.


Company




And the Show Goes On Kay Estey, SFFGS Producer The San Francisco Flower and Garden Show has new owners, and the great tradition of this world-class show will continue at the San Mateo Event Center from March 24 - 28, 2010. The new owners have selected a steering committee of four experienced Bay Area designers, contractors and growers to act as advisers and aesthetic guides for the creation of the 2010 Show. They are Davis Dalbok, Tim O'Shea, Mike Boss and Robin Stockwell. If you are interested in participating in the committee, please let me know. We are open to new members and opinions! I will continue as Show Producer. I am happy to say the new ownership has expanded and improved the Show with exciting new ideas. We are working hard to put these plans in place. The show will have indoor and outdoor display gardens, an expanded children's section, tents outside for fun activities, an emphasis on green technologies and green living. I am very excited about the new directions - a greener show outdoors with edible gardens, food and wine. We all have much to accomplish between now and March. If you are interested in participating in the 2010 show in any capacity, please contact me and we can begin the process of figuring how best to fit you into the Show. I hope you all have been having a wonderful summer and spring! I am delighted to be working with you all again. Warm regards, Kay Estey, 415-595-3236; [email protected]. Efficient Irrigation Please join the Northern California advocates of the American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association (ARCSA) at our monthly first Monday meeting for rainwater professionals (and those that want to be them). This month, Tom Bressan and Jeff Parker of Urban Farmer will discuss water efficiency through irrigation systems. Date: Monday, August 3, 2009 from 7-9 pm Location: SFPUC; 1145 Market Street, 4th floor conference room (across the street from Civic Center Bart) San Francisco, CA. RSVP: Elizabeth Dougherty, [email protected]. Click here for more



Upcoming Events


Back to TopDate Tuesday August 11, 2009; 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Title The Making of a Greenroof: The Buttner-Chang ProjectSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected]

Cost Members: $5.00. Visitors: $15.00. Non-Member Students with id: $10.00. ($5.00 is for room rental).


Description

Presented by Cynthia Tanyan, APLD East Bay District member. From a vision a decade before, by early 2005, the structural construction for the 6,000 sf of this modern home's sloped roof was finished and waterproofed. All that was needed was to plant it -- or so it was thought! Beginning with a summary of greenroof history, environmental benefits, types, styles, and terminology, this talk will take you through the process of research and discovery in the design and installation of an extensive greenroof (as seen in People magazine). From designing soil, to a system for preventing it from sliding off the roof, Cynthia will share her slides on the layers of construction, methods, plantings and people that contributed to the final success of this living roof project completed three years ago. We'll also discuss why this trend is gaining momentum in the U.S. Come and learn about this fast growing industry, and what we all, as landscape professionals, need to know to take full advantage of this opportunity. Speaker Bio: Since 1991, Cynthia Tanyan has braved challenges to design a wide variety of beautiful landscapes which both function well and belong. She holds a Master's in Sustainable Design from Conway School of Landscape Design (Massachusetts '95), an A.S. in Environmental Horticulture (Foothill College), and applies varied skills from Master Gardener, Filoli internship, desert survival, and masonry training from France. She was a founding member of the Bay Area APLD, and is currently in an accreditation program (GRHC) toward being certified as a greenroof professional. Her firm, Mozaic, has guided design and installation on over 350 unique residential and public projects throughout the Bay


Area and beyond, including: a master plan for a Stanford Lands horsepark, a design for the modern section of a 360-acre historic cemetery, a featured backyard bicycle pump track, as well asan extensive modern greenroof. A recipient of Sunset magazine's Best in the West Award ('99), her designs have been featured in Sunset, Watershapes, and People magazines. With intelligence and elegance as the basis to her designs, Cynthia always seeks to elicit life, energy, and balance from a space -- its highest beauty. She frequently works onsite with her husband Francisco Villa, his talented crew, and other skilled professionals, to insure excellence in the installation.

Date Tuesday, August 18, 2009; 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM Title Water Calculations For the New State Water OrdinanceSponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] for details Cost Free to APLD members.Location SBI in Windsor, California.

Description

Save the date for a presentation by Sierra Hart on the State mandated Water Ordinance and learn about doing Water Calculations to meet compliance. Board meeting to precede starting at 4pm, presentation to follow at 6pm-8pm. More information will be coming soon. Mark your calendars now and plan to attend.

Date Tuesday August 18, 2009; 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM Title Water Conservation Strategies, Part 1: Incorporating

Greywater SystemsSponsored by San Francisco District

Contact Cynde AvéLallemant -- Please RSVP! [email protected]

Cost APLD Members: $15; Non-APLD Members: $25 Location San Francisco County Fair Building

Golden Gate Park, 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San Francisco

Description

Join Laura Allen of The Greywater Guerrillas and John Russell of WaterSprout as they present information landscape designers need to knowledgeably discuss greywater options with clients. Learn the basis of a greywater system and the types of systems that are available; gain skills to calculate the amount of water potential and how that translates into landscape usage, and take this opportunity to ask questions of these experienced educators. Laura Allen is co-founder of The Greywater Guerrillas, a collaborative group of educators, designers, builders, and artists who educate and empower people to build sustainable water culture and infrastructure. She is also co-editor of Dam Nation: Dispatches from the Water Underground. http://www.greywaterguerrillas.com John Russell is owner of WaterSprout, a design/build landscape firm specializing in residential and commercial


greywater, rainwater catchment, and irrigation efficiency. John designed and installed the first permitted greywater system in Berkeley and soon to be the first system in San Francisco. http://watersprout.org

Date Wednesday August 26, 2009; 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Title Sponsor Vendor FairSponsored by Peninsula District

Contact Shannon Swain; [email protected] RSVP encouraged, but not required.

Cost Free for all APLD members, $10 for non-members and $5 for students with student IDs.

Location To be determinedDescription For details contact: [email protected] Date Tuesday September 8, 2009; 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Invasive Plants and Garden Thugs Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson; [email protected]



DescriptionInvasive Plants, with Bethallyn Black of the Contra Costa County Master Gardeners Program. Please watch this space for further details.

Date Wednesday, September 9, 2009Title North Bay District MeetingsSponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner; [email protected] Cost To be determinedLocation To be determined

Description

North Bay District meetings for 2009 are tentatively set for the 2nd Wednesday of the month (with exceptions). Please see individual entries in Calendar for more details about a specific month's event(s). Plans for later in the year include: September 2009 Picnic or BBQ anyone? District Meeting and Social Event with CLCA and sponsors-- (Sponsorship drive month) October 2009 Tour of Academy of Sciences: An Inside Look at the Living Roof. More information to come about this special event! October or early November 2009 Strategic Planning for 2010; District/Board Meeting (half day) last week of October or first week of November. Member input requested. Help create the new Board and shape the program of events for coming year. Late November or early December 2009 Social Event & Membership Drive. Introduce incoming Board for 2010 and celebrate being a member!

Date Friday September 11, 2009; 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM Title The 'Q'Sponsored by Sacramento DistrictContact Gary Kernick; 916-488-3374


Cost Pre-paid APLD Members & Guests $10 Pre-paid Non-Members $15 At the Door- APLD Members $15 At the Door- Non-Members $25

Location Colleen Hamilton's Garden 7122 Willey Way Carmichael, CA 95608

Descriptionou are Invited to the 6th annual BBQ at the home of the 2008 State APLD President. This event is always a great mix of fun, food & friends.

Date Tuesday September 15, 2009; 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Title Water Conservation Strategies, PART II: Rainwater Catchment

Sponsored by San Francisco DistrictContact Cynde AvéLallemant -- Please RSVP! [email protected] APLD Menbers: $15; Non-APLD Members: $25 Location San Francisco County Fair Building

Golden Gate Park, 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San FranciscoDescription Details to follow Date Wednesday September 23, 2009Title Garden Resource Tour "Get on the Bus" Sponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain; [email protected]


Location Varies.

Description The event will be a day trip and we will publish the meeting time when we have more details.

Date Friday, September 25, 2009; 10:00 AM - 12:30 PMTitle East Bay District Board Meeting Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary; [email protected] None


Description







Please click here or scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of the events below. Be sure to visit our online Events calendar , (www.apldca.org/Events.aspx) for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (20th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members. Tuesday September 8, 2009 Invasive Plants and Garden Thugs East Bay District Friday September 11, 2009 The 'Q' Sacramento District Tuesday September 15, 2009 Water Conservation Strategies, PART II: Rainwater Catchment San Francisco District Friday, September 18, 2009 The Late Show Gardens Tour/Discussions North Bay District Wednesday, September 23, 2009 Water Ordinance Meeting Peninsula District Friday, September 25, 2009 East Bay District Board Meeting East Bay District Tuesday, October 13, 2009 Using Greywater and Rainwater Catchment Systems East Bay District

APLD California Chapter September 2009 Newsletter


Walk Your Own Sustainable Path About ten years ago, the phrases “Sustainable Landscaping”, “Sustainable Garden Management”, and “Sustainable Design” debuted at local conferences and in publications. I rushed to adopt this fresh word to describe a credo that I thought was important in our line of work — leaving things better than we

found them. It seemed to me that sustainable systems carried a broader and active field in which to operate than the previously hot and now meaningless word, “organic”. A seminar in Novato introduced me to the word in the context of landscaping. Speakers like Linda Novy of Gardener’s Guild, entomologist Fernando Agudelo Silva, and arborist Michael Baefsky broke it all down in a way that allowed me to view our work as a series of intersecting series of systems, cycles, and relationships. As a recent California transplant, I remember feeling there was no better place to be part of this new movement. Our water resources are limited in such a tangible and irrefutable way, and water is the place where many of us begin the sustainability conversation. But it doesn’t stop there. Safe pesticide use, reduction of the waste stream and energy consumption, soil protection, all of this and so much more go into the equation, and each of these elements are doors to enter into the conversation. Sitting in that seminar, I felt I had finally found my place in the industry. One of the handouts still hangs on my wall, showing inputs, outputs, and waste streams in a typical landscape operation. As I studied the diagram, two things happened. A lightbulb went off in my head, and at the same time a nebulous anxiety took root — “I get it. This is important, and it can be done, but how am I going to understand all of the complex problems and solutions, how am I going to know what is the right thing to do, while

APLDCA Newsletter - September 2009 Page 1 of 9

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 Tour of Academy of Sciences Living Roof North Bay District Sunday October 25, 2009 Edible Landscaping- The New American Garden w/ Rosalind Creasy Sacramento District Wednesday October 28, 2009 Get on the Bus Peninsula District

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

continuing to make a living? What if I don’t do it perfectly?” Since then, I have concluded that we simply have no other choice but to do our best, and try to do the next right thing each time we have the opportunity. There is no perfect path to sustainability, and it’s often easier to see what we should not do than what we should do next. Sometimes we get a push from external forces like regulation (AB 1881, anyone?), shortages in fuel or supplies, or other factors. My own path to ‘paperlessness’ was not the result of proactive planning on my part. My printer broke down the day after the one-year-warranty expired. Because I was too busy to even think about it, I simply stopped printing things on paper and started emailing them as PDFs. Painful at first, this went on for about six weeks, and by the time I got around to the repairs, we had completely converted our administrative operations to paperless systems. This was not an intentional action, but a fantastic, pain-in-the-rear opportunity. Although there was much grousing, I learned that it was much easier than I ever thought possible, but I was forced into it. Change is good but it’s a hard sell to a small business owner who has already created a system that works for them, their employees, and their bottom line. Still, we must be ready to move forward and try new things. One of my big motivators for change is the crop of new and fresh faces in our industry, filled with ideas and inspiration to stretch our commitment to sustainability into every single aspect of our businesses going beyond the “do no harm” paradigm, to correcting the harm done before we reached this state of awareness. This is both exciting and, to be honest, a bit threatening. I need to keep up, stay ahead of these whippersnappers (yeah, you know who you are!), who do me the service of nipping at my heels to be sure that I don’t rest on my laurels and call it done. Staying informed about sustainable technology, material specs, and systems requires effort and sometimes risk in order to stay ahead of the curve. But we can help guide each other in the right direction, and that is where I find tremendous value and support among my APLD cohorts. This is only one of the reasons that I am getting ready to send in my renewal (paperless, of course!) when the renewal season starts on September 15. For another sustainable shot-in-the-arm, I guarantee that if you can make it to The Late Show (article and contact info in this issue), you will not be at a loss for threads of the Sustainability Conversation taking place in our industry. Several of our districts have begun addressing AB1881 compliance through educational opportunities, and you will also find in this issue upcoming East Bay MUD classes offered by the Irrigation Association. We’ll also inform you of continuing education programs like the G3 seminars in Southern California in future issues. I hope to see many of you at one or more of these educational events. Until then, keep trying to do the next right thing, and try to leave things better than you found them. I believe that one cannot go wrong with that in mind.

Maureen Decombe




Petaluma, CA 94925 707-778-0136

New Earth Nursery

President APLD California Chapter

News from...


First Annual APLD Fall Garden Tour Kelly Marshall

The East Bay District is excited to announce our first annual Garden Tour which will be open to the public and slated to take place on October 10, 2010. Entitled "Cornucopia," the tour will allow each East Bay District Certified or Associate member to showcase one of her or his gardens in either Alameda or Contra Costa counties. Our goals include fostering public awareness about APLD and its designers and to give each East Bay member the chance to stage and present representational work and generate great business opportunities. We hope to have 35 gardens on the tour the first year so please consider participating. For more information contact Kelly Marshall, [email protected] or Kim Larsen, [email protected].

The Member's Section

Meet Patricia Wagner, APLD Shelley Somersett, APLD I knew Pat Wagner before she was famous. Roll back the tape or search back in cyber space and you will find Pat Wagner a student at the University of California at Berkeley Extension studying garden design. I had the pleasure of taking many classes with Pat. We would often compare notes and discuss the topics of study in preparation for exams. Clearly apparent to me was the talent that Pat had for design and for sharing her insight, passion and promotion for the love of gardens. Not surprising that Pat Wagner is a successful HGTV Curb Appeal designer, former President of the East Bay District of the California Chapter, Certified Member and supporter of Certification within APLD, and now published in Sunset Magazine. Be sure to pick up a copy of the August 2009 issue of Sunset Magazine and turn to page 36 to view Pat's article about her home garden "A Garden of Outdoor Rooms" or visit Sunset at http://www.sunset.com/garden/landscaping-design/garden-rooms-design-secrets-00400000050540/ to view the serenity of Pat's garden..


APLD


Directors


Vice President:

Joni Wilson, APLD

Kudos Pat, I knew you would be famous! Cleanliness is next to.... Frank Niccoli, The Village Gardener J. William Thompson and Kim Sorvig in their book Sustainable Landscape Construction remind us that we have a responsibility to keep healthy sites healthy during the construction process. Thompson posits that every site resembles a living organism, and like a living organism, each site varies in health. Prevention is usually more successful and less expensive than a cure. Avoiding damage is our responsibility as conscientious contractors and designers. It is part of our job to understand the health of a site before we begin construction. Healthy sites are recognizable by the diversity of plant and animal life adapted to the site. On a healthy site there is no dominant species and the life on the site, including soil micro-organisms, are self sustaining and self reproducing. Because construction is stressful we need to ensure the site has sufficient strength to overcome these disruptions. Large trees, for example, need to be protected during construction. Use plastic fencing (which can be reused repeatedly) to make sure that trucks, machinery and people do not compact the tree's root zone. Fencing should be installed before any work is started. Do not allow stockpiling of material in or around trees. Remember, the drip line of a tree does not delineate its root zone. Depending on species it is usually two to three times the diameter of the drip line. Pick up this well-written book on managing sites in a sustainable manner. It will save you time, money, and add to your education as a professional. [email protected] News from...

The Sponsor's Corner

Monrovia Announces 2010 New Plant Introductions

Monrovia, the leading grower of premium plants, is introducing 40 varieties for 2010 that are new to the market, including 16 exclusive and six semi-exclusive introductions. Under the guidance of Nicholas Staddon, director of new plants, Monrovia has become a leader in the acquisition, trialing and promotion of new plant varieties. "We partner with breeders and plant hunters like Dan Hinkley to uncover improved varieties. Our emphasis is on plants that are healthier, hardier and easier to care for," he explained.



Colleen Hamilton




Secretary:

Tina Roushall



Katey Mulligan


Calendar:

Sharon Gibson


Membership Chair:

Janet Enright


Public Outreach




Susanne Frey


Laura Morton



Glenn Hansen


Cheryl Buckwalter

Monrovia's latest offerings include two new varieties of the Itoh Peony Collection, five selections added to the Dan Hinkley Collection, three colorful Barberries from Ohio plantsman Jim Zampini and the world's first prostrate Camellia. Click here for details on 23 of the stars for 2010, alphabetical by botanical name.

Classes and Events

The Late Show Gardens Where brilliant design meets sustainable practices FIRST ANNUAL EVENT September 18-20, 2009 AT Cornerstone Sonoma The intimate layout of this garden show will allow visitors to personally experience a different approach to the crucial issues of water conservation and climate change while celebrating beautiful design. Through gardens and lectures, visitors will learn about the large palette of plants from Mediterranean-type

climates around the world that thrive on mild rainy winters and dry, hot summers. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how creative, interesting garden design can be both socially responsible and personally rewarding. http://www.thelateshowgardens.org/. Click here for details. Irrigation Association Classes EBMUD is again hosting Irrigation Association classes at our West Oakland facility. SpotWater Management will be conducting the classes and handling all registration (except for the exam registration which the Irrigation Association handles). We will have an Irrigation Contractor class on October 29 and 30, and a Landscape Irrigation Auditor class on November 9 and 10. The Certification Exam for both classes will be held at the same location on November 11. Costs, location, and registration information is provided on the attached flyers. The IA requires that exam registration be completed at least 30 days before an exam, on October 11. Please email SpotWater Management if you have questions about the course content and for registration information at [email protected].





Ramie Allard


visit our website.




Member FAQs



APLD


Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues support for all chapter and district programs in California. The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California

News from...

The Green Industry The Cement Man Carrie Sturrock, The San Francisco Chronicle Call him cement man. Back when Stanford Professor Brent Constantz was 27, he created a high-tech cement that revolutionized bone fracture repair in hospitals worldwide. People who might have died from the complications of breaking their hips lived. Fractured wrists became good as new. Now, 22 years later, he wants to repair the world. Constantz says he has invented a green cement that could eliminate the huge amounts of carbon dioxide spewed into the atmosphere by manufacturers of the everyday cement used in concrete for buildings, roadways and bridges. His vision of eliminating a large source of the world's greenhouse CO2 has gained traction with both investors and environmentalists. Click here for more.

Next Lawn Alternative?

This is a sedum mat. It works basically like sod, but instead of thirsty grass, it is made up of small succulent plants that use less water and are more interesting to look at. A downside is that it doesn't work for high traffic areas, but withstands applications involving light traffic. It

recovers very quickly, because cuttings break off and restart themselves.

These mats, which are not yet on the market, are being developed by the forward-thinking people at Altman Plants, the largest succulent and cactus growers in the U.S. Possible uses include throwing them up on bare roadside hillsides where they will require no more than biweekly watering. Developers are also using them for green roof tops or replacement lawns without the wait. Instant low-water ground cover! The sedum mats are grown by just scattering sedum plants on the mat. Anyone could certainly do that on his or her own, but it can take a year or so for the plants to grow in. Click here for more information.


District programs and meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available) -Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected]. Join the dynamic and informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!



Delta Bluegrass

New CA Greywater Code Passed! Great news for greywater! The Building Standards Commission recently voted to pass the new California greywater code (Chapter 16 in the CA Plumbing Code).This was passed as an emergency measure due to drought and water shortages faced in the state.

Click here for more information.


Please visit our online Events calendar (www.apldca.org/Events.aspx) for the most up-to-date information on all APLD events, as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members.

Date Tuesday September 8, 2009; 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Invasive Plants and Garden Thugs Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson; [email protected]



DescriptionInvasive Plants, with Bethallyn Black of the Contra Costa County Master Gardeners Program. Please watch this space for further details.

Date Friday September 11, 2009; 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM Title The 'Q'Sponsored by Sacramento DistrictContact Gary Kernick; 916-488-3374

Cost Pre-paid APLD Members & Guests $10 Pre-paid Non-Members $15 At the Door- APLD Members $15 At the Door- Non-Members $25

Location Colleen Hamilton's Garden 7122 Willey Way Carmichael, CA 95608

Descriptionou are Invited to the 6th annual BBQ at the home of the 2008 State APLD President. This event is always a great mix of fun, food & friends.

Date Tuesday September 15, 2009; 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM Title Water Conservation Strategies, PART II: Rainwater

CatchmentSponsored by San Francisco District


Company




Contact Cynde AvéLallemant -- Please RSVP! [email protected]

Cost APLD Menbers: $15; Non-APLD Members: $25 Location San Francisco County Fair Building

Golden Gate Park, 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San FranciscoDescription Details to follow Date Tuesday September 18, 2009; 9:00 AM - 5:00 PMTitle The Late Show Gardens Tour/Discussions Sponsored by North Bay District

Contact Karlyn Williams, 707-259-5487; [email protected]

Cost APLD Menbers: $15 at event entrance: $20 non-members. Can be purchased website: http://www.thelateshowgardens.org

Location Cornerstone Festival of Gardens, Sonoma, CA

Description

All District members are invited to join this group tour of the Late Show Gardens at Cornerstone in Sonoma. Day includes garden tour, attending lectures, and sharing discussions over lunch. Non-members are also welcome.

$15 box lunch should be ordered in advance at the event website PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED to participate in group lunch/discussions To register for the tour see contact info above. See Late Show Gardens website for lecture schedules and details.

Date Wednesday September 23, 2009; 3:00 PM - 5:30 PMTitle Water Ordinance MeetingSponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain; [email protected]


Location Varies.

Description The event will be a day trip and we will publish the meeting time when we have more details.

Date Friday, September 25, 2009; 10:00 AM - 12:30 PMTitle East Bay District Board Meeting Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary; [email protected] None


Description


Date Tuesday October 13, 2009; 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Using Greywater and Rainwater Catchment SystemsSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson; [email protected]

Cost Members: $5.00. Visitors: $15.00. Students with id: $10.00. ($5.00 is for room rental).Veterans Memorial Building, 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd,


Location Lafayette.Description Please watch this space for further details. Date Wednesday, October 14

Title Tour of Academy of Sciences: An Inside Look at the Living Roof

Sponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner; [email protected] Cost To be determinedLocation Academy of Sciences, San Francisco Description Contact Cynthia for details. Date Sunday October 25, 2009; 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM Title Edible Landscaping- The New American Garden w/

Rosalind CreasySponsored by Sacramento DistrictContact Gary Kernick; 916-488-3374Cost $25 in Advance or $35 at the Event Location Sierra 2 Garden Room and Courtyard 2791 24th St.

Sacramento, CA 95818

Description

10-11 AM Seminar Registration & Edible Marketplace in the Garden Courtyard 11 AM -12:30 Seminar with Q & A in the Theater 12:30-1:30 Author Book signing & Ploughman's Luncheon in the Garden Room, Edible Marketplace reopens in the Garden Courtyard Rosalind Creasy is the bestselling author of the award winning ten book series Edible Gardening. Her first ground breaking book, The Complete Book of Edible Gardening coined the term Edible Gardening. She is credited with introducing a new palette of heirloom vegetables to the American public. Rosalind's mouth watering slide presentation will inspire and educate you to include edibles in your garden design. Among the topics: A to Z of recommended beautiful edible plants Overview of the wide variety of creative edible landscapes Principles or landscape design particular to edibles Don't Miss Sacramento's Landscape Event of the Year!!!!

Date Wednesday October 28, 2009; 3:00 PM - 5:30 PMTitle Get on the BusSponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain; [email protected]


Location To be determined.

Description This would be a field trip to nurseries and vendors - more information will be provided as we get closer to the event.






Please click here or scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of the events below. Be sure to visit our online Events calendar , (www.apldca.org/Events.aspx) for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (20th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members. Tues, Oct 13, 2009 Water Conservation Systems in Residential Design East Bay District Wed, Oct 14, 2009 North Bay District 2010 Strategic Planning Meeting North Bay District Thurs, Oct 15, 2009 Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Garden Tour w/Bart O'Brien Greater Los Angeles District Tues, Oct 20, 2009 Design Salon + Resource Sharing San Francisco District Fri, Oct 23, 2009 Talk Waterwise Plants Sacramento District Sun, Oct 25, 2009 Edible Landscaping: The New American Garden w/ Rosalind Creasy Sacramento District Wed, Oct 28, 2009 Get on the Bus Peninsula District Tues, Nov 10, 2009 Building a Small Business Support Team East Bay District

APLD California Chapter October 2009 Newsletter


An Embarrassment of Riches. A Gaggle of Good Things. A Plethora of Possibilities. That is what this month has been about for the APLD California Chapter. So much has been happening that I had to ask the esteemed editor for this edition (thank you Sharon Petersen) for more time to fit in all of the developments that happened only in the last few hours. When I joined the Chapter Board over five years ago, we had big dreams, many hurdles, and a promising future built

upon a well intentioned but somewhat delicate foundation. We were like a beautiful tropical plant situated in a less-than-reliable microclimate, subject to wilting or even worse if the wind blew the wrong way. We had so much to offer, but our support system - the soil, nutrients, climate, and water - were fragile and our roots were not yet able to support all of our dreams. Since then, a core team of devoted board members has evolved and expanded to include an army of chapter and district leaders who staff our committees and subcommittees to keep the wheels rolling and support our programs and services. We’ve weathered a few crises and not only emerged relatively unscathed but have come out stronger. Our leaves have been singed by a few frosts, but our vitality has grown and we are now an established and resilient stand. We can now say, yes, we belong here. We have a mission, we’ve been “hardened-off”, and we are prepared to take things to the next level. I’ve spent the last week in meetings with our board, and then with a committee that you’ll be hearing a lot more about in the coming months. This work has been joyful and inspiring, causing me more than once to shake my head and say, “Yes! This is why I volunteered for the APLD California Chapter. This is what I have worked for, and what I am here for. It's all been worth it.” The first item on the consent agenda for our Chapter Board meeting was the enthusiastic and proud acknowledgement of the Greater Los Angeles District as our sixth district in the California Chapter. This incredible development has been a long time coming, and is the result of much time and effort on the part of the current board, and many who came before them to create the critical mass for a robust and sustainable APLD presence in Southern California.

APLDCA Newsletter - October 2009 Page 1 of 13

Wed, Nov 11, 2009 To be announced North Bay District November 13-14, 2009 California Chapter Board Meeting California Chapter Fri, Nov 20, 2009 East Bay District Board Meeting East Bay District Fri, Nov 20, 2009 Share the Night Light and the Fun San Francisco District Wed, Nov 25, 2009 No Meeting Peninsula District

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

Thus, it is with great pride and pleasure that I announce that the Greater LA District, comprised of Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange County, is born, and under solid and committed leadership. The Board is comprised of Laura Morton, President, Stephanie Bartron, APLD Vice President, Linda McKendry, Treasurer, and Joel Lichtenwalter, Membership. I met with Laura and Stephanie last week, as well, when they stopped by my office on their way home from The Late Show. They shared with me some of their plans, and if I were a member in Southern California, I’d not only get excited about the future, I’d get in contact with them and ask how I can help, because what they are up to is something you want to be part of from the ground up. Furthermore, we see this district as an incubator for the formation of at least two other new districts within Southern California, in their own time, and with their own style. Ok, so if that wasn’t enough, there was still another enthusiastic thumbs-up at our Chapter Board meeting. We have responded to a request from APLD International to enter our hats into the running for a 2012 conference in the Bay Area. There are still many details to be ironed out, and a final decision by the APLD Board of Directors (that’s the Big Board to us here in CA) has not yet been made, but I can tell you that we have done our best to impress. As I write this, an ad-hoc Local Site Committee has toured the East Bay, North Bay, and San Francisco, with plans to visit Sacramento and the Peninsula on the next trip. We will know after the October 24 Big Board meeting whether we have been selected. Having had some peripheral involvement with the planning for the Pasadena conference in 2007, I hesitated at first to imagine that we should take this on. It is a tremendous effort, which if we are to be successful, will tap many resources in our chapter. However, there are times when the stars align, the doors open, and the right things happen at the right time. Under such circumstances, I’ve learned to put my worries aside and “get on the bus”, as they say in the Peninsula District. One of the reasons I am so confident that we will, if selected, mount an enormously successful conference, is because of the extraordinary team we already have in place for our ad hoc Local Site Committee. Led by Allison Olson of the Peninsula, with the support of Patricia St. John, APLD, of the East Bay, and Landscape Architect Linda Garrett of the Peninsula; this team has already set a strategic plan for success, and are ready to roll if we are chosen as the 2012 conference site. So get ready to hear from them about your ideas, and start thinking about how you can bring your own talents to bear to engage in a truly rewarding and fun process. Having had the privilege to join this team as we welcomed Danilo Maffei, APLD, Chair of the APLD Conference Committee for his first visit to the Bay Area, I enjoyed a most memorable and engaging day of debate, ideas, and design. There is more, so much more, but I’m running out of space, so here is the lighting round of the remaining amazing EOR for our Chapter: The Late Show Gardens - An incredible presence with a booth, gorgeous banner, and luncheon, organized by a team including Cynthia Sumner, Karlyn Williams, and Darcy Hill Merritt of the North Bay, and a gorgeous banner created by Cynde Avé Lallemant. Sacramento District hosts venerated author Rosalind Creasy, presenting “Edible Landscaping: The New American Garden” on October 25th. Three of our districts have mounted successful presentations on various aspects of water issues- North Bay and Peninsula on the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO) and what it means for landscape designers; San Francisco with a two part series including Rainwater Harvesting and Greywater Systems (the day after non-permitted greywater systems were approved in CA). The East Bay gets with this flow with their next meeting on Greywater and Rainwater Catchment. APLD designers throughout the state are working with water districts and municipal governments to ensure that APLD has a place at the table as




Petaluma, CA 94925 707-778-0136

New Earth Nursery

the WELO is adopted and modified on a local level; while still others are creating educational opportunities for those of us who want to know how to meet the WELO requirements, via G3LA, the new Bay Friendly Landscape Design qualification, River Friendly Landscaper qualification, and still other programs which are emerging as we seek to broaden our knowledge and protect our precious blue resources. Now, I was supposed to write about membership renewal this month. But as you can see, I was too busy telling you what APLD has been doing for you to get around to that. It is my hope that in making that choice, I have made that other requirement moot. Of course you are going to renew, and you’re going to get a friend to join you, because you want to be along for this ride, and you want to share it with people you respect. We are going places, and we want you “on the bus”. So please take your seat, turn around, and check in with your neighbors to make sure we’re all here together. And let’s go out into the world and show them and ourselves what APLD in California is all about—generous talent, faithful dedication, compassionate passion, unbridled plant lust, appreciation of the details done right, and a sincere and unwavering commitment to make this place better than we found it, one garden at a time. Maureen Decombe President APLD California Chapter

News from... The Board and Districts

To Serve or Not to Serve Sharon Petersen East Bay District Past President

I have a confession to make.

I am not a joiner. I am not an activist. I don’t volunteer. In general I depend on others to do the dirty work.

So it was out of character of me to join APLD. At the time a District didn’t even exist in my area so I had to travel quite a distance to attend meetings. After each one I realized how much I had learned and how much I enjoyed meeting my fellow designers.

Several years later a District was started in my area and I was one of the few who attended that first meeting at which officers needed to be chosen. As is usually the case in these situations few volunteered but finally all positions were filled except Secretary, and no one was stepping up. It was made clear that we couldn’t form a District without a full compliment of officers. This is how I came to serve in my first Board position.


APLD

California Chapter 2009 Board of Directors

President:

Maureen Decombe

Vice President: Joni Wilson, APLD

After serving as Secretary for two years I learned what it takes to make a District tick, how many people and hours are expended to put on great programs, to plan events, to contact Sponsors – the list goes on and on. It felt good to be part of a larger picture, of something greater than myself and one that was making a difference. Then the office of East Bay District President needed to be filled. Again, no one was raising their hand – including me.

I remember the day I got the call. “Sharon,” she said, “we’ve got no one else. If you don’t do it I don’t know what we’ll do.” Of course I knew I could do it. After all, I had held a professional management position in the private sector for years prior to starting my career in landscape design, and I was running my own business. I didn’t want to do it but I couldn’t just let the District die. I knew there were things I would like to see tried; I knew there were changes I’d like to make. So I said yes – and I’ve never regretted that decision.

Serving on the Board has opened so many opportunities to meet and get to know colleagues from all over the state, has offered me challenges that expanded my problem solving skills, and has brought me solid friendships I never would have made. I have had great laughs, shed a few tears and shared huge moments of pride. It has completely enriched my life both personally and professionally.

Why am I telling you this? Because I know there are others out there just like I was who come into the meetings, listen and leave, who take what they can and don’t raise their hand when asked, who offer up excuses, who leave it to others to take care of things. Well, this is my challenge to you. Every single District in this state has Board positions going unfilled. We need new blood; we need new ideas; we need new energy. We need you. You know you can do it. Now raise your hand. Sharon Petersen Garden Artistry Landscape Design [email protected]


Bamboo Pipeline Announces LandSensesm Plants

Plants that Make Sense for California Landscapes

More than 400 plants that are low-water use, sustainable, attractive and readily-available to help landscape professionals design and install low-water use, eco-friendly landscape projects

October 1, 2009—Bamboo Pipeline, in collaboration with a voluntary, expert panel of California’s leading environmental landscape architects, has assembled a broad database of trees, shrubs, and perennials that they have deemed ideal for today’s pressing environmental concerns to design and install water conserving, sustainable



Colleen Hamilton




Secretary:

Tina Roushall



Katey Mulligan


Calendar:

Sharon Gibson


Membership Chair:

Janet Enright



Susan Morrison



Susanne Frey


Laura Morton



Glenn Hansen

Sacramento District President: Cheryl Buckwalter




Ramie Allard

For a listing of our District Boards of Directors, please visit our

landscapes that are also beautiful.

“It’s invaluable to have resources like the LandSensesm plant palette when we’re choosing plants for our landscape designs. We strive to achieve beautiful gardens that use California’s and our clients’ resources sustainably; this objective is supported by a diverse list of readily-available, great-looking, lower-water-use plants—a list essential in our planning,” stated David Thorne, ASLA, Oakland, California when asked about why he supports the development and promotion of the LandSensesm plant palette.

The LandSensesm plant palette is available to any landscape professional simply by registering as a user on the Bamboo Pipeline web site (http://bamboopipeline.com). “As California’s broadest and most complete distributor of plants to landscape professionals, it is only natural that we take a lead to help the industry navigate through the complex challenge of designing in low-water use, sustainable and eco-friendly plant material,” says Matt Fay, President of Bamboo Pipeline. “Simply by logging onto our web site and reviewing plant items from our database of over 10,000 plant varieties that we sell and ship directly to job sites throughout California and Nevada, a landscape professional can easily identify those plants we, and our expert panel, have designated as either LandSensesm plants or simply low-water use plants. Once logged in, the professional can then customize their own plant list—a list they can freely designate as a LandSensesm design—best suited for their locale and the specific needs of their customer.”

David Reed, ASLA, San Diego, California summed up both Bamboo Pipeline’s and the panel’s intentions best when he said, “Of all the things we as landscape professionals create, the most fragile, ephemeral and often the most beautiful are the planted portions of our landscape projects. So it is critical that we share our experience of what works for the eco-sensitive needs of California with all of our colleagues, contractors, landscape professionals and clients.”

Dirk Gaudet, ASLA, Los Angeles added, “With a larger selection of climate appropriate and native plant material provided by nurseries today, along with the greater demand to reduce water use and increase sustainability, the LandSensesm

plant palette is a great reference, not only for plant types, but also for confirming availability from a wide reach of nursery growers.” Click here for more.



website. For a complete listing of the APLD National Board of Directors, please visit: http://apld.org/contact/


Member FAQs



APLD California Chapter Membership Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues support for all chapter and district programs in California. The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California District programs and meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available)

Margie Grace Wins APLD “Designer of the Year” Award

Margie Grace of Grace Design Associates, Inc. a Santa Barbara-based landscape design and build company with projects throughout the Southwest, has been honored with the top award that the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD) has to offer as part of their International Landscape Design Awards, Designer of the Year.

“Margie Grace’s designs are stunning and sensitive to the natural setting,” says William Healy, APLD, chairman of the APLD Awards Committee. “Her designs connect with the site, sit seamlessly in the environment, blend harmoniously with the architecture

and reflect the client's aesthetics.”

The award was bestowed by APLD, the leading trade group for landscape design professionals worldwide. The judging panel was comprised of well-known experts in the field, and the award is the group’s highest honor.

Grace’s winning project was for a Santa Barbara residential design. The “eco-friendly” home and garden are masterfully integrated and Grace worked closely with renowned green architect Michelle Kauffman throughout the project, from design through completion. Grace also won top honors for that same residence by receiving the Gold Award for Residential Design.

The goal in the design was to create a naturalistic landscape that anchored the house within the surrounding environment. She utilized materials harvested from the site and blurred the line between indoor and outdoor living. The design team worked closely with the homeowners to create an amphitheater, hot tub, fire pit and outdoor entertainment area, all set within rolling sweeps of un-thirsty grasses.

“It has been an amazing year for us,” said Grace, who first began in the landscape design/build business over 25 years ago. “We have had the opportunity to work on some amazing projects in the Southern California area, and to help out homeowners who were devastated by the recent fires. We’ve had our work profiled in numerous national publications, and have enjoyed a period of business growth during a recessionary period. These two awards mean so much to the entire team, knowing our hard work and design sense has been recognized by our peers.”

About Grace Design Associates Grace Design Associates, Inc. is an award-winning, full service landscape design and build company with over twenty-five years of experience designing and building world-class gardens. Projects range from small residential gardens to large estates, commercial projects and community works. Design approach varies, from extremely naturalistic to highly urban, contemporary to traditional, sublime to whimsical. All projects are executed with the values of old world craftsmanship, and the result is a one-of-a-kind garden custom-tailored to the client, the architecture, the site and the environment. To learn more, please visit www.GraceDesignAssociates.com.


-Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected]. Join the dynamic and informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!







Lawn Alternative Updates Susan Morrison

As an active garden blogger, I’ve been asked by more than one designer why I take the time. Among other things, blogging has brought me valuable information, professional connections and new friends - not to mention good P.R. This past summer, blogging led to two opportunities I’ve particularly enjoyed being a part of.

UC Verde Grass Test

Like most of you, an integral part of my philosophy is to introduce sustainable practices into the gardens that I design – but not at the expense of beautiful, functional landscapes. I didn’t realize how much I relied on lawn as a key component of many designs until a few years ago, when I actively began encouraging clients to exchange their lawns for lawnlets, or even eliminate them altogether. Consequently, I’m always on the lookout for no-lawn design inspiration, not to mention practical information on sustainable substitutes for turf grass.

Because lawn alternatives is one of the topics I blog about, a few months ago I was contacted by the Grass Roots Program, http://www.grassrootsprogram.com/, a non-profit website that promotes environmentally friendly lawn alternatives for Californians. They told me about UC Verde Grass and asked if I would be interested in running a test.

A few facts:

UC Verde Grass (Buchloe dactyloides) is a native bunch grass developed by the University of California. It spreads via stolens, forming clumps that ultimately grow into a lawn. It requires 50 to 70% less water than traditional fescue lawns. Left unmowed, it grows into a meadow about 6” high – otherwise it can be mowed every three to six weeks for a lawn effect. Click here for more...

Other News of Interest

The San Francisco Flower & Garden Show is Alive and Well! Kay Hamilton Estey, Producer & Laura Schaub, Exhibit Coordinator

APLD member Laura Schaub has recently joined the staff of the San Francisco Flower & Garden Show and is on a quest to find great Gardening, Green Living and Green Technology products and companies for our Exhibitors Showcase. The message we’ve heard and taken to heart: more garden, good design and green living.

Show dates are March 24-28 at the San Mateo Events Center. The theme of the 2010 show will be ‘Gardens for the Future,’ and will continue the trend of focusing on beautiful sustainability, edible landscapes, and smart gardening for families.

Our programs for children will expand, (they are the Gardeners for the Future!) and


we will be moving some activities and programs outdoors to take advantage of the expansive outdoor space available at the Event Center. The Show will be featuring a Victory Garden, which is already garnering much support from organizations working to educate people about growing their own food.

2010 will be historic for the SFFGS; not only does it mark its 25th Anniversary, but it also welcomes new energy, as well as community and industry involvement, because the show is now locally owned and based in the Bay Area.

SFFGS is also being guided by a volunteer steering committee that represents a long history of participating in and support of the show. The well-known landscape designers, gardeners and growers on the committee are Chairman Tim O'Shea of Greenworks Design, Davis Dalbok of Living Green, Mike Boss of Rock & Rose Landscapes and Robin Stockwell of Succulent Gardens. We are delighted that Flora Grubb will be joining the committee as well.

If you know of a great product or company that would benefit from exposure to 50,000 garden maniacs at the third largest garden show in the country, please let us know! They can visit the exhibitor page, or contact Laura at [email protected].

If you are considering building a garden in the show, now is the time to contact Kay at [email protected]. We are planning a stunning show including large display gardens, smaller urban gardens, container gardens and edible gardens in the Victory Garden display. Some gardens will be outdoors. The garden creators receive cash and material subsidies from the Show. This year there will be $25,000 in prizes awarded to garden creators and exhibitors!

For inquiries about speaking at the show, contact Janet Endsley [email protected]

Submitted by: Kay Hamilton Estey, 415-595-3236, [email protected] and Laura Schaub, 408-398-4363 [email protected]

Protect Your Property after a Fire Barbara Landrith, California Landscape Contractors Association

Fire destroys hundreds of homes each year in California and often burns thousands of acres of land. If your property was damaged by fire, the California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) is pleased to offer some recommendations to help your landscape recover and to help protect your property. Click here for more.

We Grow It, We Make It! Neil Curry, Owner, The Willow Farm

The Willow Farm is nestled against the Pescadero marsh preserve an hour south of San Francisco, California. The owners, Neil and Alix Curry, emigrated from Australia twenty years ago and their farm is the culmination of a business vision driven by the desire to be profitable without compromising ecologically sound farming practices. Their answer to the question “conservation vs. productivity” is to have both work in tandem. They have proven their belief that conserving the environment does not preclude productivity, rather, the concepts enhance each other.


Using time-honored farming practices combined with a strong background in the sciences, Neil and Alix have turned their forty acre farm into an agricultural jewel with several businesses that work in relationship with each other as well as the environment. One of their more creative ventures, The Willow Farm, embraces the motto “we grow it, we make it” and produces products for high end landscape architectural projects using a totally renewable resource: willow. Click here for more.

Ecological Landscaping Conference

The Ohio State University Urban Landscape Ecology Program announces the 2nd Ecological Landscaping Conference to be held in Cleveland, Ohio on December 1, 2 & 3, 2009 at the Hilton Garden Inn located at 1100 Carnegie Avenue.

Ecologically-based landscapes and green infrastructure solve urban environmental problems related to storm water run-off, air and water pollution, waste generation and disposal, soil nutrient cycling, limited ecosystem services, pest persistence, and vacant lot management. Widespread adoption of holistic, ecosystem approaches to urbanized landscape design and management can help foster social, economic and environmental stewardship, provide fresh food and nutrition in food desert communities, and sustainability among human inhabitants of urbanized environments. Click here for more.


Please visit our online Events calendar, (www.apldca.org/Events.aspx) for the most up-to-date information on all APLD events, as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members.

Back to TopDate Tuesday October 13, 2009; 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Water Conservation Systems: Using Greywater and Rainwater

Catchment in Residential DesignSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson; [email protected]


Location Veterans Memorial Building, 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette.Come hear the latest from an expert who is a leader in addressing our need for water conservation. John Russell is the owner of Oakland-based WaterSprout, a landscape construction firm specializing in grey water, rainwater catchment, and irrigation efficiency. He is also a founding member of DIG, a multidisciplinary design team working to regenerate a healthier,


Description

more natural urban life.

John has pioneered water efficiency standards by permitting and building the first grey water system in Alameda County, in addition to the first residential constructed wetland in California. John will discuss the techniques, costs, efficiencies, and landscape design aspects of rainwater catchment and grey water systems, as incorporated into residential design.

Date Wednesday, October 14Title North Bay District 2010 Strategic Planning Meeting Sponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner; [email protected] Cost Free to APLD members. Dinner & beverages provided.

Location O'Connell Landscape, 3028 Petaluma Boulevard North, Petaluma, CA 94952. (707) 313-5320. Additional Information www.oclandscape.com

Description

Please join us for the North Bay District 2010 Strategic Planning Meeting!

It's been my pleasure to serve such a great group of designers and as we look forward to the coming year, I hope you will lend your support to continuing the good work. We have vacancies on our Board to fill and are ready for some new ideas for programming that suits your needs and fits your interests. With the Water Ordinance coming into law in 2010, this will be the time to increase our visibility and utilize our skills and education to promote our role in the landscape industry and to consumers. Please come share your ideas and consider putting even a little time into helping us to shape our profession.

Cynthia Sumner, 2009 President, APLD North Bay District. P.S. If you can not attend, please send your thoughts and feedback via email to [email protected]..

Date Thursday October 15, 2009, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM Title Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Garden Tour with Bart O'BrienSponsored by Greater Los Angeles DistrictContact Stephanie Bartron, [email protected] Cost Free to APLD members $10 to non-APLD members Location Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Garden, 1500 N. College Ave.,

Claremont, CA 91711

Description Tour the extensive California Native collection with Bart O'Brien, then meet for lunch if you can. RSVP required. More info @ www.rsabg.org

Date Tuesday October 20, 2009, 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM Title Design Salon + Resource SharingSponsored by San Francisco DistrictContact Cynde AveLallemant, [email protected] Cost APLD Members: Free; Non-APLD Members: $10 Location Linda Rude’s Residence, 839 Union Street @ Mason, San

Francisco, CA 94133

Description

Bring a current project or burning question for feedback in a comfortable and relaxed gathering of peers. Plan to bring a couple of your favorite resources to share — plant books, design inspiration books, websites…your choice!

With your RSVP, please indicate if you have a project or a topic to discuss. A digital projector and laptop will be available for showing site images/plans. Also, send your resource info so that a list can be made prior to the meeting.


Date Friday October 23, 2009, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Title Talk Waterwise Plants!Sponsored by Sacramento District

Contact Katharine Rudnyk, 800-999-9321 x1148 [email protected] Additional Information www.monrovia.com

Cost Free to APLD members

Location Green Acres Nursery - 8501 Jackson Road, Sacramento, CA 95826. 916-381-1625

Description

See new & exceptional Monrovia plants that will create beautiful waterwise landscapes. Hear about the growing interest in waterwise plants within Sacramento's design community. Lunch, networking, and fun included! Special guests: Katharine Rudnyk: With nearly 20 years at Monrovia, she provides a critical technical link concerning plants from Monrovia. In 2008, she conducted 80 luncheons and events at various firms throughout the United States.

Todd Tretter: When it comes to plant knowledge in Sacramento, Todd has it. With 7 years of experience in the area, he started like many of us in the industry, watering plants at the nursery.

Julie Saare-Edmonds who will share her involvement with the Landscape Program, Office of Water Use Efficiency, California Department of Water Resources.

Linda Higgins will share helpful information from the Regional Water Authority of Northern California.

Date Sunday October 25, 2009; 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM Title Edible Landscaping- The New American Garden w/ Rosalind

CreasySponsored by Sacramento DistrictContact Gary Kernick; 916-488-3374Cost $25 in Advance or $35 at the Event

Location Sierra 2 Garden Room and Courtyard 2791 24th St. Sacramento, CA 95818

Description

•10-11 AM Seminar Registration & Edible Marketplace in the Garden Courtyard. •11 AM -12:30. Seminar with Q & A in the Theater •12:30-1:30 Author Book signing & Ploughman's Luncheon in the Garden Room, Edible Marketplace reopens in the Garden Courtyard

Rosalind Creasy is the bestselling author of the award winning ten book series Edible Gardening. Her first ground breaking book, The Complete Book of Edible Gardening coined the term Edible Gardening. She is credited with introducing a new palette of heirloom vegetables to the American public.

Rosalind's mouth watering slide presentation will inspire and educate you to include edibles in your garden design. Among the topics: •A to Z of recommended beautiful edible plants •Overview of the wide variety of creative edible landscapes •Principles or landscape design particular to edibles

Don't Miss Sacramento's Landscape Event of the Year!!!! Date Wednesday October 28, 2009; 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Title Get on the Bus


Sponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain; [email protected] Cost RSVP encouraged, but not required. Free for all APLD members,

$10 for non-members and $5 for students with student IDs.Location To be determined.

Description This would be a field trip to nurseries and vendors - more information will be provided as we get closer to the event.

Date Tuesday November 10, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Taking Your Business to the Next Level - Building a Small

Business Support TeamSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, mailto:[email protected]?subject= Cost Members: $5.00. Visitors: $15.00. Students with id: $10.00. ($5.00

is for room rental).Location Veterans Memorial Building, 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette

Description

•Are you constantly struggling to do everything yourself? •Are you tired of trying to master or just keep up with your bookkeeping, tax preparation, marketing, website management, office organization and general business administration? •Are you unsure of how you could let someone else in to your solo operation? Come and join our panel discussion on the many ways that your small business can improve productivity without actually hiring employees. Our guest speaker will be Nina Feldman of Nina Feldman Connections (www.ninafeldman.com) a referral network of freelance virtual assistant & technology consulting services. Nina is a veteran of 28 years of office support service ownership. She acts as a frequent consultant to small business owners and individuals on running a smooth and successful business or home office. She also assists her husband, Chris Grampp, in his practice as a landscape architect and instructor of landscape design at Merritt College. Voted Member of the Year in 2001 by the members of the Association of Business Support Services (ABSSI), Nina currently moderates several online business support listservs.

Nina is known as the “person to call when you’re stumped” as to where to find all kinds of office support services, including bookkeepers, organizers, web designers and computer repair technicians. She published a resource book in the ‘90s called How to Run a Successful Homebased Word Processing/Desktop Publishing Business— which sold over 2,000 copies—and numerous articles in Industry Focus magazine and at Business Know-How.com.

Date Wednesday, November 11, 2009Title North Bay District MeetingsSponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] Cost To be determined.Location To be determined.Description To be determined. Date November 13-14, 2009Title California Chapter Board Meeting Sponsored by California ChapterContact Tina Roushall, Chapter Secretary, [email protected] NoneLocation Location varies. Contact Chapter Secretary for further information.

Regularly-scheduled planning and coordination meeting of the APLD California Chapter Board of Directors. Chapter members and


Description sponsors are welcome to attend these meetings, but due to limited space, arrangements must be made prior to the meeting by contacting the Chapter Secretary.

Date Friday, November 20, 2009Title East Bay District Board MeetingSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary, [email protected] None.Location Location varies. Contact District Secretary for further information.

Description


Date Friday November 20, 2009Title Share the Night Light and the Fun Sponsored by San Francisco DistrictContact Cynde AveLallemant, [email protected] Cost APLD Members: Free; Non-APLD Members: By Invitation NOTE:

RSVP required by November 10

Location Integrated Design Studio, 219 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941 (behind Walgreens)

Description

LEDs — the efficient "green" choice, but what about the quality of light? Decide for yourself as we evaluate incandescent, halogen, and LED choices side-by-side. Explore lighting design decisions for directional, underwater, and mood lighting. Discuss fixture retrofit, heat/condensation issues, and glare reduction.

Michael Pringle, founder of Illumigarden, will present an overview of landscape lighting, detail LED technology as it applies to the landscape, and show a range of contemporary to period light fixtures from numerous manufacturers. We will be in the garden setting of IDS's Outdoor Design Center to experience the beauty of the garden and to ask questions of Michael, the lighting designer for the Outdoor Design Center.

Illumigarden is a resource for landscape designers and contractors alike. The sales office / showroom, located in the heart of Mill Valley, is a comfortable space to bring your client — or visit yourself to learn about warranties and putting your system together. An Illumigarden lighting designer can also make "house calls" with you to discuss site-specific recommendations and will refer licensed contractors for installation. See the website for showroom location. http://www.illumigarden.com

This festive finale to 2009 is at IDS's Outdoor Design Center in Mill Valley. Enter through the garden as the presentation and the party will be in the greenhouse. See the light; join the fun. There is plenty of parking available!

NOTE: Your RSVP is required by November 10th so that we can plan for seating, food, and drinks.






Please click here or scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of the events below. Be sure to visit our online Events calendar , (www.apldca.org/Events.aspx) for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (20th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members. Tues, Nov 10, 2009 Building a Small Business Support Team East Bay District Wed, Nov 11, 2009 District Board Meeting North Bay District Sun. Nov 15, 2009 Fall Gathering w/Garden Writers Assn. Greater LA District Thurs, Nov 19, 2009 Share the Night Light and the Fun San Francisco District Fri, Nov 20, 2009 District Board Meeting East Bay District Wed, Dec 2, 2009 California Chapter Board Meeting California Chapter Tues, Dec 8, 2009 The Devil's in the Details East Bay District Wed, Dec 9, 2009 District Meeting North Bay District Sun, Dec 13, 2009 Holiday Party East Bay District Wed, Dec 23, 2009 Xmas Party Peninsula District

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

APLD California Chapter November 2009 Newsletter


Grabbing the Rings

The trick-or-treaters have received their treats, we’ve had our first greening rains of the season, and already, people are gearing up for the holidays. This is always a busy time for the landscape industry as we try to get gardens into the ground before winter storms barrel in, wrap up our commitments in preparation for family time, and assess our progress as the year

winds down. It’s also time for a last hurrah, a push to achieve something great, to finally grab the golden ring that may have eluded us in the past. It’s those APLD golden rings I’m thinking of now, both those we have in hand and those that continue to sparkle on our horizon.

One of our biggest catches this year is the opportunity to host the 2012 APLD International Conference in California. Just days ago, the APLD Board of Directors approved a Bay Area location, and the Local Site Committee, led by Allison Olson, is already hard at work scouting out locations, talking to district leaders, and working out logistics to bring you the best possible combination of speakers, gardens and facilities.

Shining also in our hands is a long-awaited and previously elusive opportunity. The APLD International staff and board have labored toward this goal, and we are very pleased to finally have access to an Errors & Omissions insurance customized for landscape designers. You soon will hear directly from Hortica about an E & O policy available to APLD members, discounted for APLD Certification. Yet another reason to get to work on your certification package!

APLD programs delivered to our members this year continued to dazzle. Just recently I spent the weekend in Sacramento to attend two amazing events. The first, organized by Monrovia—a sponsor of both APLD International and the California Chapter—offered an invaluable talk on

Rosalind Creasy & friend

APLDCA Newsletter - November 2009 Page 1 of 11

new water-wise plants at Green Acres Nursery. We were treated to a delicious sit-down lunch as plant “spokesmodels” made their way from table to table displaying the latest and greatest from Monrovia’s prolific plant development programs. This was preceded by a series of speakers on the upcoming adoption of the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance – read more below.

Next day the Chapter Budget Committee met to put together our budget, brainstorm policy proposals, and anticipate finances for the coming year. After a walk through the UC Davis Arboretum, our able Treasurer Tina Roushall and I got a good night’s sleep before the big event of the weekend—Rosalind Creasy’s talk on Edible Landscapes. That adorable photo is Evan Florio, son of my coworker Belinda with Ros, right after she signed one of her books. The Sacramento District pulled out all the stops for this public event, with an Edible Marketplace and an absolutely delicious Ploughman’s Lunch. (Many veggie starts were packed into the car for the ride home.)

During my introduction, a particularly proud moment came with the opportunity to welcome one of our newest chapter members, Katherine Brooks, from Richmond, VA. When Katherine’s address showed up on our member lists, I called her to see if there was an error, but no. Katherine saw the many wonderful programs she could attend while visiting her son in California and decided to sign up for our chapter. Rumor was that she arrived on her bicycle. We fed her well for the trip back and tried to persuade her to move here, later relieved to learn she had only pedaled from her son’s bike shop in Sacramento.

So despite the economic downturn, our membership is growing and our programs continue to improve. Our district and chapter boards have matured, enabling us to achieve a level of organization and effectiveness to realize our highest aspirations. This success is built on three solid foundations—our volunteers, our members, and our sponsors.

During this year, when it has been my honor to serve as Chapter President, I have had many conversations with members, sponsors, contractors and others who are justifiably concerned about our economic future. Yet there is a common thread among those who are managing not only to weather this storm, but also to build foundations through new opportunities for collaboration with their customers and colleagues. APLD membership and sponsorship is one crucial way we can continue to strengthen and deepen those connections.

Please support our sponsors as they have supported us over the years. As we begin our 2010 Sponsorship Campaign, take time to thank our sponsors in person and by phone when you specify materials, buy plants, and research new garden design elements. Consider ways to involve sponsors in your local programs and share your opinions with them. Which of their products are you excited about? What kind of plants are you looking for? How can we all work better, together, for our mutual success?




Petaluma, CA 94925 707-778-0136

New Earth Nursery

It is not just those golden rings we seek; we also benefit from sticking together through adversity and challenge. The Chapter recently learned of threats to our right to practice, which have emerged as local agencies adopt the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. As a result, our leadership is hard at work with the APLD International organization to vigorously defend our position; we aim to ensure that the carefully crafted qualifications for documentation submittal in the MWELO are adopted by local jurisdictions, thus ensuring legislation that is consistent with existing State Business and Practices Code.

To keep you updated, we are in the process of producing a special MWELO APLDCA Newsletter. This will include latest developments and highlight significant wins on the Peninsula. Thanks to the diligence of several local members - Astrid Gaiser, Chris Todd, Maryanne Quincy, Nancy Shanahan, Patti Berryhill, Lynn Saunders, and Linda Garrett - APLD was well represented before hundreds of local officials at last Monday’s Department of Water Resources MWELO Seminar. These are just the members I saw at break time, many more of you attended. My thanks to all of you! Braving two hours of Monday morning rush hour traffic to attend included also yours truly. It was my Mr. Smith Goes to Washington moment, and I learned I kinda liked it.

I’ve said many times that I am blown away by the generosity and collaborative spirit of our organization. Just last night, I received an answer to a question on our Yahoo Group that not only addressed my concerns about a new material, but went far beyond into the kind of detail you learn only from an experienced, top-notch designer. This almost daily benefit of APLD membership is only one of many reasons I annually renew my membership. I suspect it’s also why so many of you continue to rejoin us. If you haven’t already sent in your membership, please renew today.



Growing Connections on 2009 Peninsula District Bus Trip


APLD


President: Maureen Decombe Vice President: Joni Wilson, APLD Immediate Past President: Colleen Hamilton Acting Treasurer: Tina Roushall If you have an interest in serving as Treasurer, please contact: [email protected] Secretary: Tina Roushall Communications Chair: Li Vellinga Newsletter / Editor: Katey Mulligan Newsletter / Production: Sharon Petersen Calendar: Sharon Gibson

Gail Klein, Peninsula District

Our supplier bus tours are a highlight of the Peninsula District’s year. How lucky we are to be able to combine business with pleasure! This, our fourth trip, saw us venturing again into the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond. An unbeatable combination: good company, good food, interesting people and plants, and a chance to relax and leave the driving to our driver Jim. We even had good weather – sunny, with a brisk onshore breeze– invigorating, but not enough to prevent us from dozing in our seats at the end of the day.

More to the point -- following Peninsula’s District’s 2009 theme of “connections within our industry”, the program was to open up more lines of communication – information that would help designers and wholesale growers do business with each other…another step in making us smarter designers.

During our visits to four wholesale nurseries, we spoke with Luen Miller of Monterey Bay Nursery, Robin Stockwell of Succulent Gardens, Lisa and Jeff Rosendale of Sierra Azul/Rosendale Nurseries and Ginny Hunt of Suncrest Nursery. They spoke first about product, all introducing us to some special plants they feel deserve attention from designers – high performing plants that are attractive, climate-suitable, and versatile. Several made the point that at times new plants they grow can remain unsold due of lack of interest in the more traditional retail market – nurseries and their customers.

Secondly the principals made sure we knew how to order plants and get delivery. We found out how to get availability lists, which are also great resources, highlighting new plants and introductions and providing plant descriptions and growing directions for Northern California. We also learned about aspects such as how to place orders, payment, minimum order sizes, costs, and brokers dealt with. It was especially helpful to be able to ask questions and get feedback on our ideas.

Finally, we stopped for refreshments at Grass Farms’ Garden Accents on Hwy 101, a source for pottery, since more and more people are interested in container gardening.

A vote of thanks to volunteer members and our hosts!

Educational Opportunities


Website / Technology: Sharon Gibson Membership Chair: Janet Enright Sponsorship Chair: Karen Hunt Public Outreach Coordinator: Susan Morrison


East Bay District President: Susanne Frey Greater Los Angeles District President: Laura Morton North Bay District President: Cynthia Sumner Peninsula District President: Glenn Hansen Sacramento District President: Cheryl Buckwalter San Francisco District President: Robin Alyse Doyle Southern California Region: Ramie Allard For a listing of our District Boards of Directors, please visit our website. For a complete listing of the APLD National Board of Directors, please visit: http://apld.org/contact/



Do you have more questions that aren't yet answered? Send an email to

San Francisco Green Roofs Symposium

Wednesday, November 4, 2009 Alma Munoz-Women’s Building 3543 18th Street #8, San Francisco, CA For more information and to register visit: www.greenroofs.org

The workshop will provide an opportunity for participants to learn from local and national experts about the general design and implementation of green roofs. Regional case studies will be featured and afternoon focus group sessions will allow attendees the chance to identify with relevant city officials the local research needs and obstacles to implementation. Input gathered from participants of this workshop will help guide the further development of green roof policy options in the San Francisco area.

http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Agenda.aspx?e=edb8d78c-90fa-4a49-bd81-d166d20350fd

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop

Just in time for the fall rains, CLCA-SFBA is presenting a Rainwater Harvesting Workshop at Foothill College on Friday, November 6th. For more information, please see the calendar on the website at www.apldca.org/Events.aspx.

CLCA's Water Management Certification Program Training Qualifies for Continuing Education Units!

The California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) is pleased to announce its Water Management Certification Program training has been approved for Continuing Education Units through PLANET. PLANET, the Professional Landcare Network, is an international association serving green industry professionals. PLANET offers a series of certification and training programs for the landscape industry to raise the standards of the profession while improving professional development. A few of these programs include the Certified Landscape Technician, Certified Ornamental Landscape Professional and the Certified Turfgrass Professional. Click here for more.

CLCA and LVMWD Announce Water Management Certification Training & Test

The California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) will conduct a Water Management Certification training and test for southern California landscape industry professionals and anyone who wants to learn to manage landscape water usage on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 from 9am - 3:00pm at Las Virgenes Municipal Water District (LVMWD)


[email protected] to get your questions answered and added to the FAQs.

APLD


Thank you to everyone who renewed their APLD California Chapter membership! Your $40 California Chapter membership fee provides the sole dues support for all chapter and district programs in California. The many rewards of APLD California Chapter membership include: -Attendance at California District programs and meetings throughout the state -Monthly California Chapter Newsletter -APLD California Chapter Website -Listing in the California Chapter referral pages -Local APLD Certification Workshops -Local APLD District Garden Tours (where available) -Local APLD District Mentor/Mentee Program (where available) -Local APLD District Design Salons (where available) -Opportunities to network with other designers and green industry professionals -Participation in our lively APLDCA Members-only internet discussion group Questions? Please contact the California Chapter Membership Committee: [email protected]. Join the dynamic and

Headquarters, 4232 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302.

"We're very pleased to host CLCA certification and testing," said John. R. Mundy, general manager of LVMWD. "Intelligent outdoor water use is key to making the most of our limited water resources. CLCA certification can provide the public with a recognized standard of expertise when selecting a landscape contractor." Click here for more.

Sustainable Landscape Professional Series Intensive

The Intensive Series will be held December 2 through December 4, 2009 as an overnight retreat at Los Angeles’ Temescal Gateway Park Conference and Retreat Center in Pacific Palisades, CA. The exam, which is open only to participants who successfully complete the class, will be administered on Saturday, December 5, 2009, from 9:00AM to 1:00PM. Organic breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be served daily, and those availing themselves of the overnight accommodations will be served dinner.

For more information: http://www.greengardensgroup.com/education/professional/professional/

Greg Morris Vice President, APLD Arizona Chapter Principal, LandFX Design Group, LLC

News to Know ...

Halprin, a Time to Reflect

We sensed it before we knew. The agenda read a team of two presenters; but before us now was a panel of five – manager, drafter, modeler, mason, and artist. And with head bowed and an aura of introspection, one spoke. Lawrence Halprin would not be with us much longer.


informative discussion happening every day on the California Chapter Yahoo! Group!







Vivid recollections flowed from these men who worked with Halprin, some for more than 30 years. Each story layered on the next to create an

image of the man and his creative process.

At the office of Lawrence Halprin the design process was always a spiral of creativity and the human potential — a visual and emotional process. It began with a sketch as an opportunity to see. Larry’s first sketch was as a child’s view, a drawing to be printed and reworked … to evolve. The model was equally imperative for Larry; it was a stage set through which spatial relationships were played out and resolved. Bids were produced only after viewing the model. Click here for more.

Larry was not a teacher or mentor. He was hands-on through all phases. Creative changes flowed throughout the entire project, even into construction. It had to be right!

Larry would choreograph the experience and create community. He masterfully stirred people to follow his will and vision for a project. He would listen and wait for each person to advocate for a specific issue, be it butterfly habitat or bird protection. Then Larry summarized and united the gathering, clearly persuading those present that advocating for one issue did not rule out the support for the other.

On one project the masonry crew spent a full day watching and listening to a mountain stream while Larry sketched. At first restless and impatient, these men came to understand this unusual day on the job. This experience was essential to the construction of the stream at Letterman Digital Arts Center. Rather than working from drawn plans, stream construction was lead by the vocabulary of dance that Larry developed for the movement and sound of water as it disappears under some rocks, skirts around some, and rushes over others. The stream within the designed landscape was the abstraction of water in nature — not nature recreated.

Twenty-five years earlier, this team designed another landmark, Levi’s Plaza. Larry defined a dual direction: one, a park; the other, an oasis. For the park, a stream meanders amidst dense foliage plantings that block the view of the freeway of its day. Across the way, a fountain triggers an oasis through sound masking the noise of traffic; touch of flowing water over boulder and paths of pavers; and temperature cooling. It is a relaxing respite within the urban environment.

Lawrence Halprin, a man of resolve and creativity whose landscapes reflect the history of time and place. May they live on for future generations to enjoy!

The symposium, Landscapes for Living: Post War Years in Northern California presented by the Cultural Landscape Foundation, focused on the public and private Post War landscapes that are our designed landscape heritage. Speakers shared personal insights from their relationships with Garrett Eckbo, Robert Royston, and Lawrence Halprin.

Levi Plaza, San Francisco




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Date Tuesday November 10, 2009, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PMTitle Building a Small Business Support TeamSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson, [email protected]


Location Veterans Memorial Building, 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette

Description

Our guest panel will include Nina Feldman of Nina Feldman Connections (www.ninafeldman.com), a referral network of freelance virtual assistant & technology consulting services. Watch this space for further details.

Date Wednesday, November 11, 2009Title North Bay District Board/District Meeting Sponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner, [email protected] None

Location O'Connell Landscape at 3028 Petaluma Blvd N., Petaluma, (415) 462-9729.

Description

Join us for a follow up from our Strategic Planning meeting to set the course of programming for the coming year and vote in our new officers. We still have spots open for Vice President and Treasurer, and hope to be able to fill these spaces to keep our District going strong into the future. Your input and ideas are always welcome!

Date Sunday November 15, 2009; 3:00 PM - 7:00 PMTitle Fall Gathering with Garden Writers AssociationSponsored by Greater Los Angeles DistrictContact RSVP to Joel Lichtenwalter; [email protected]

CostThe Greater LA District of APLD will be sponsoring the first 30 people to register for this event who have paid their 2010 dues. Cost: $25 APLD Members $35 Non-Members

LocationStone Manor Lighting 6219 Porterdale Rd., Malibu, CA 90265. Toll Free: (888) 534-0544 Phone: (310) 457-0094 or (310) 457-3541; www.stonemanorlighting.com


Description

Schedule for the Event 3:00 - 4:30 PM Arrive, tour and photograph gardens, networking, appetizer buffet (overlooks Paradise Cove and Malibu Beach) 4:30 - 5:30 PM Panel Discussion on Blogging for Fame and Fortune with Questions and Answers Panelists: Billy Goodnick of Fine Gardening; Theresa Loe of Garden Fresh Living and others 5:30 PM Door Prize Drawing 6:00 - 7:00 PM Aime and Lance Lindsay: 'The Magic of Lighting' (design trends and tech.) with after-dark tour of Stone Manor grounds use of lighting in the landscape.

Date Friday November 19, 2009Title Share the Night Light and the FunSponsored by San Francisco DistrictContact Cynde AveLallemant, [email protected]

Cost APLD Members: None; Non-APLD Members: By Invitation NOTE: RSVP required by November 10

Location Integrated Design Studio, 219 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941 (behind Walgreens)

Description

LEDs — the efficient "green" choice, but what about the quality of light? Decide for yourself as we evaluate incandescent, halogen, and LED choices side-by-side. Explore lighting design decisions for directional, underwater, and mood lighting. Discuss fixture retrofit, heat/condensation issues, and glare reduction. Michael Pringle, founder of Illumigarden, will present an overview of landscape lighting, detail LED technology as it applies to the landscape, and show a range of contemporary to period light fixtures from numerous manufacturers. We will be in the garden setting of IDS's Outdoor Design Center to experience the beauty of the garden and to ask questions of Michael, the lighting designer for the Outdoor Design Center. Illumigarden is a resource for landscape designers and contractors alike. The sales office / showroom, located in the heart of Mill Valley, is a comfortable space to bring your client — or visit yourself to learn about warranties and putting your system together. An Illumigarden lighting designer can also make "house calls" with you to discuss site-specific recommendations and will refer licensed contractors for installation. See the website for showroom location. http://iwww.illumigarden.com This festive finale to 2009 is at IDS's Outdoor Design Center in Mill Valley. Enter through the garden as the presentation and the party will be in the greenhouse. See the light; join the fun. There is plenty of parking available! NOTE: Your RSVP is required by November 10th so that we can plan for seating, food, and drinks.

Date Friday, November 20, 2009


Title East Bay District Board MeetingSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Donna Dillon, District Secretary, [email protected] None.


Description


Date December 2, 2009; 10 AM – 4 PMTitle California Chapter Board MeetingSponsored by California ChapterContact Tina Roushall, Chapter Secretary, [email protected] None


Description


Date December 8, 2009; 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Title The Devil's in the Details: Design Tips from APLD Conferences & Beyond

Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson; [email protected] None

LocationNON-STANDARD LOCATION: Merritt College, Landscape Horticulture Department, Room H-101, 12500 Campus Drive, Oakland, CA.

Description

Please join us for a special joint meeting of the APLD-CA East Bay District and the Merritt College Landscape Design Forum, to be held at the Merritt College Landscape Horticulture Department. Have you ever struggled for ideas on designing a different type of fence? Have you ever wondered about how to blend a cultivated landscape with a natural landscape? Do you like COR-TEN® steel but need different ideas on how to use it? Have you thought about how to incorporate house walls into your landscape? Do you want to reuse old concrete but hate the look of urbanite walls? Do you know how to transition from one hardscape material to another? These are just a few of the many tips that East Bay District President-Elect Lorraine Edel has picked up from APLD Conferences and garden tours. Come for a pictorial presentation of some fabulous gardens and unique ideas, and get a taste of what APLD has to offer! Lorraine Edel is an experienced landscape


designer. She received her degree in Ornamental Horticulture from Foothill College and has worked throughout the Bay Area for many years. She is currently the Vice President of APLD-CA East Bay District, and has served in several capacities throughout her seven year membership. Lorraine is also a certified Bay Friendly Landscaper. Note that parking is $1.00; bring quarters for the machine.

Date December 9, 2009Title North Bay District MeetingSponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner; [email protected] To be determinedLocation To be determinedDescription Date Sunday December 13, 2009Title East Bay District Holiday PartySponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson; [email protected] None for membersLocation Orinda, CA

Description SAVE THE DATE! Please watch this space for further details.

Date Wednesday December 23, 2009; 3:00 PM - 5:30 PMTitle Xmas PartySponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain; [email protected]

CostRSVP encouraged, but not required. None for all APLD members, $10 for non-members and $5 for students with student IDs.

Location Description More details to come.






Please click here or scroll to the bottom of this newsletter to see full details for each of the events below. Be sure to visit our online Events calendar , (www.apldca.org/Events.aspx) for APLD events added or changed since the newsletter submission date (20th of each month) as well as non-APLD events of interest to our members. Tues, Dec 1, 2009 California Chapter Board Meeting California Chapter Tues., Dec 1, 2009 Using Vectorworks with WELO East Bay District Wed., Dec 2, 2009 Peninsula District Xmas Party Peninsula District Tues, Dec 8, 2009 The Devil's in the Details East Bay District Sun, Dec 13, 2009 Holiday Party East Bay District Wed, Dec 16, 2009 North Bay District Holiday Party North Bay District Tues., Jan 12. 2010 All You Need to Know About WELO East Bay District Wed., Jan 13, 2010 North Bay District Meeting North Bay District Fri., Jan 15, 2010 East Bay District Board Meeting East Bay District Wed., Jan 20, 2010 Sacramento Landscape EXPO Sacramento District Wed., Jan 27, 2010 Peninsula District Meeting Peninsula District

APLD California Chapter December 2009 Newsletter

President's Message By Maureen Decombe When Is a Garden Finished? Do we create gardens just for that time when they’ve reached their peak, are camera-ready, perfectly pruned, swept, and shiny? Or is there greater pleasure in seeing them truly mature, express their own personality, and convey a feeling rather than a static image of beauty. We try to design gardens to mature over many

years into a new kind of lasting beauty. If not protected from the march of progress and development, they adjust to thrive in a new scheme; or perhaps that one relic tree will remain to mark what once was there long after we are gone. On a recent trip to DC, I revisited trees planted almost twenty years ago, remembering the heat of the sun as my coworker and I dug an improbably wide, shallow hole, clearing out a huge swath of turf to prevent mowers from scarring our new little trees. That extra effort—turning that sod and covering it with a thick layer of mulch, carefully tapering the mulch layer as we got closer to the main trunk, staking the tree to offer gentle support while allowing the trunk to move and strengthen in the wind—resulted in an almost comical appearance of two thin-necked sticks emerging from a cow paddy. Doing a job right sometimes means taking longer, working harder, facing a little bit of ribbing, and taking responsibility for outcomes that are not always predictable. When we finished that job, we were teased for having taken too long, for the seemingly ridiculous balance between the skinny little trunks and their 12-foot diameter planting beds. But we had faith in our instincts, and having driven those mowers ourselves, we knew how hard it was to navigate through the slalom of trees, old and new, which our new saplings joined. We also knew that as interns, the other side of earning minimum wage was

APLDCA Newsletter - December 2009 Page 1 of 14

OUR GOLD SPONSORS

the latitude to notch up a couple of “learning experiences,” We didn’t necessarily follow the exact agenda for the day, but pushed the envelope and engaged in experimentation. Often we didn't succeed, but in the last week of our internships, with those trees we went for it, took our lumps, and smiled inwardly because we knew we had done the right thing. All of this came to mind as I admired the great specimens that grew from the whips we’d planted so long ago. For me, this is the essence of satisfaction, and a reminder of why I chose and love this profession. We plant for the future, making choices now that can reward our efforts one hundred-fold. We see our sweat transformed into flourishing foliage, shelter from sun, and a strong system of branches to support an occasional great flowering. We have room to experiment, to try a new way, and, as long as we’re willing to take responsibility for our decisions, we can learn and grow by taking occasional risks. Sometimes the risks that we take reward us the most. Such is the feeling I have when I look back on the effort and sacrifice our founders invested in building the California chapter. Together with our loyal, thoughtful and generous team of board members and volunteers, I’ve had the pleasure to quietly and carefully lay the groundwork for the future success of our organization - building on the soil and solid foundation upon which we will continue to flourish. This work has suited my personality and my analytic side: I enjoy figuring how to make things work better. But I must admit, in my role as president, until the last couple of months, I’ve felt some vague dissatisfaction that we did not really have one singular “big idea” or focus to push forward, engage our members and keep it interesting. The last half of the year provided the antidote to such notions. “Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it,” is a phrase I’ve heard more than once, being an inveterate “wisher.” Challenges with local adaptation of AB 1881, the State Model Efficient Water Ordinance, have taken care of any concerns I might have had about making a difference. Far from disheartening our members or exhausting our reserves, this ordinance provoked an effective and robust response from our organization. Members attended DWR Workshops, city and county council meetings, and engaged in many private discussions with planners and other stakeholders affected by AB1881. We’ve sought and received excellent support from the APLD International Legislative Chair, as well as APLD council, and I am confident that if we remain focused on our goals, we will succeed in protecting our right to practice. This, like our many other successes this year, has been a team effort. One of the most powerful tools we developed was a set of “talking points” for you to use in commenting on upcoming local adoption of AB 1881. For more details about how you can join this effort, please see the current draft of our WELO Talking Points. I’m proud of the APLD response to the challenges presented by AB 1881…but we cannot stop there. Our strategy for the coming months includes educational opportunities to help you understand the guidelines for creating Landscape Documentation Packages, as well as the latest important technologies for conserving water in the landscape. Our goal is to make




Petaluma, CA 94925 707-778-0136

New Earth Nursery

APLD an essential part of an industry-wide effort to transform California residential landscapes into the most efficient and water-wise in the nation. In so doing, we are investing in our future As the year closes, many of our long-time leaders are moving on, making space for you to come and set our new course. For the California Chapter Board, we seek a Secretary and a Communications Chair. Our Sponsorship Chair completes her term this year on a high note, with another successful sponsorship drive already underway. I have faith our new leaders will soon emerge, and I’m excited that the direction our board will take within our organization reflects the enormous paradigm shift throughout the industry. Recently I met John Greenlee, the great meadow-maker, speaking on grasses and great ideas in gardening. Not one to mince words, John boldly stated that we can no longer deny the changing times, we need to decide: are we in or are we out? Are we ready to adapt, adopt and attain our future? I hope your answer is yes, that you will help to lay the groundwork for your future in this industry, that you will commit to take your place at the table. I especially encourage members from the southern part of the state to join us on the chapter board. We need to knit together our challenging geographic divide. I also encourage new members with talents and skills from previous careers to step forward. You don’t need to be an experienced designer to run a board meeting or take minutes; in return you will be exposed to an enormous pool of potential mentors and most of all, friends. All you need is a commitment to the future of APLD and a desire for constructive change. We are pleased to offer, for the first time this coming year, board training for all district and chapter leaders. In my new role as Past President, I plan to focus on updating our bylaws and policy manual, further consolidate our organizational structure, empower our committees, and enhance communications at all levels. It will be a pleasure to work with our incoming president, Joni Wilson, APLD, to support her as she begins the drive to promote APLD to the public and the industry in preparation for the 2012 conference. Though I’ll enjoy taking a rest and retreating back behind the scenes, I have had a blast this year. I’ve truly enjoyed my service, especially writing these impossibly long “Prez Mez’s”. The board meetings have been fun, productive and inspirational, a true reflection of our amazing volunteers. Because my poor editor will already be challenged by the length of this message, I will not name more names this time around; please scroll over to the left margin of this newsletter and be sure to thank these folks when you see them next. They have all been here for you, your district and APLD as a whole. And they’ve all done their part to support my presidency during a year of more rewards and inspiration than I ever thought possible. My sincere thanks to every one of you! Maureen Decombe


APLD


President: Maureen Decombe Vice President: Joni Wilson, APLD Immediate Past President: Colleen Hamilton Acting Treasurer: Tina Roushall If you have an interest in serving as Treasurer, please contact: [email protected] Secretary: Tina Roushall Communications Chair: Li Vellinga Newsletter / Editor: Katey Mulligan Newsletter / Production: Sharon Petersen Calendar: Sharon Gibson Website / Technology: Sharon Gibson

President APLD California Chapter


The International Conference is Coming…The International Conference is Coming! Allison Olson – Local Site Committee Chair With much enthusiasm and excitement I have the privilege to announce… the Northern California Districts will be host to the APLD 2012 International Conference! My unbridled enthusiasm for this news stems from my realization that we have an opportunity to step up onto a national platform and display our talents, diversity and dexterity in numerous, multi-dimensional ways. And I’m certain that if anybody can shine…it is you, our members! With International Program Chair Dan Maffei advocating for us, and our chapter board members enthusiastically and thoughtfully brimming with possibilities, we have a local ‘core team’ in place, comprising Patricia St. John, Linda Garrett and myself. And with an abundance of local resources and talented member pool, we are off to a great start. In the coming months we will be working on the details… the specifics of who, where, when, etc. Until then, the core team will be making a concerted effort to attend district meetings in San Francisco, North Bay, East Bay, Peninsula and Sacramento. This will provide an opportunity for all of us to get to know one another. It also will give the core team a chance to be inspired by what makes each district unique so we can make substantive content suggestions for the conference. I am dedicated to making this conference one that people talk about for years to come. It will be a wild and exciting ride. We invite you to come along. And we look forward to watching you shine. Allison Olson: 408.296.3678; [email protected]. A Cornucopia of Edibles Comes to Sacramento Cheryl Buckwalter, President Sacramento District APLD


Membership Chair: Janet Enright Sponsorship Chair: Karen Hunt Public Outreach Coordinator: Susan Morrison


East Bay District President: Susanne Frey Greater Los Angeles District President: Laura Morton North Bay District President: Cynthia Sumner Peninsula District President: Glenn Hansen Sacramento District President: Cheryl Buckwalter San Francisco District President: Robin Alyse Doyle Southern California Region: Ramie Allard For a listing of our District Boards of Directors, please visit our website. For a complete listing of the APLD National Board of Directors, please visit: http://apld.org/contact/




Vegetable gardens for years were planted in the corner of most back yards, in tidy, straight rows filled with American standards such as corn and tomatoes. Perhaps out of necessity, and in part due to today’s economy, buzzwords like organic, local and sustainable have inspired an explosive interest in planting edibles in our home gardens. So Sacramento District members asked, “How can we as designers incorporate edible plants into our ornamental designs and how can we do it with style?” One way is to bring a top-notch, innovator to Sacramento to speak at our District’s annual Big Event. And who might that be? Rosalind Creasy, widely considered the pioneer of edible landscaping who coined the term decades ago in her first award winning, best selling book, The Complete Book of Edible Landscaping. Creasy’s passion for beautiful vegetables and ecologically sensitive gardening inspired her to author the ten-book Edible Gardening series that is overflowing with gorgeous photographs and recipes. On October 25th last, Rosalind Creasy delivered an inspirational seminar. In her “Introduction to Edible Landscaping,” Creasy states: “Food fashions wax and wane, but the desire for fresh, vibrant produce does not; vegetables and fruits are no fresher than when picked a few feet from the kitchen.” She adds, “Edible landscaping can marry beauty and fresh gourmet produce within a unified, well-designed landscape.” Creasy provided the audience of designers and garden enthusiasts with her “A to Z” of recommended edible plants for home gardens, photographs of a wide variety of edible landscapes, and principles of landscape design particular to edibles. This was an exciting day, truly a feast: Creasy graciously answered questions and lingered for a book signing. Attendees meandered through the Garden Marketplace, organized by Communications Chair Lisa Scarr, where vendors offered local organic veggies and plants for the winter garden, garden sculptures and much more. Projects by Sacramento District members were featured at the “Designer Gallery”, organized by Membership Chair Soleil Tranquilli. Events Chair and “Chef” Gary Kernick created a magnificent Ploughman’s Lunch. Thanks to our fabulous volunteers and members! I’ll end with this: Throughout the day as I glanced from one area to the next, I was filled with wonderful, warm feelings – groups of people chatting, laughing, tasting – a cornucopia of good things for all. Happy edible landscaping! Cheryl Buckwalter, President, Sacramento District 530-887-9887; [email protected]


APLD



Thank you to our Silver

DON’T FORGET… It’s Time to Renew Your APLD Membership Join us in 2010 for another fabulous year of inspiration, motivation, deliberation, stimulation… Contact: APLD Communications [email protected]

News from... Our Members

APLD Members Win CLCA State Award Friday 13th proved to be lucky indeed for two APLD members. At the annual CLCA State Awards, Jared Vermeil and Samscaping Inc. were awarded First Place in the Medium Residential category for entries between $75,000

and $150,000. The event was held on Friday, November 13 at Las Vegas’ fabulously chic new M Resort. Jared’s imaginative design, built with award-winning expertise by the Samscaping crew, was recognized as an exceptional project in one of the most contested categories. Kudos also, to APLD member Mark von Dohren of M & M Builders for the beautifully crafted custom fence work. A fun and rewarding evening was enjoyed by all! ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas - A Poem for Gardeners Jan Nelson "The Mountain Gardener" ‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the garden, All the creatures were stirring, the deer got a pardon. The hummingbird feeders were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that the Anna's soon would be there. The flowering cherries were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of spring glory danced in their heads. The summer vegetables were harvested and beds put to nap, The compost's a brewing so next year's a snap. When out on the native grass lawn there arose such a clatter,


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I ran into the garden to see what was the matter. And what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a big flock of chickadees and eight black-tailed deer. They spoke not a word, but went straight to their work, The chickadees devouring aphids with amazing teamwork. And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the deck, Prancing and pawing, the deer making a wreck. A hydrangea here, an abutilon there, this garden's a feast, Fruit, vegetables and color: it must belong to an artiste. We love this garden, they whispered to themselves, With any luck, they'll think we're the elves! Beautiful flowers and nectar and fragrance abounds, We'll include this forever on one of our rounds. The birds can sing and fly in the skies, But we have the charm with huge brown doe-eyes. We get a bad rap, it's not all our fault, Our old feeding grounds are now covered with asphalt. Just give us a sleigh and we'll make you proud, We're good for more than just eating roses, they vowed. Call us Dasher and Dancer and Comet and Vixen, Or Comet and Cupid and Donner and Blitzen, Then maybe you'll forgive us for our past mistakes, We can't help that we eat plants, we just don't eat steaks. Now if you've been good this year, go ahead and make a wish, And each time you see one of us, think welcome, not banish. And all of us creatures will give you our best shot, To feed and nourish your garden with nary a thought. So everybody listen carefully on Christmas Eve, And maybe you'll hear us and then you'll believe. You may even hear us exclaim as we prance out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!" My thanks to Clement Clark Moore who wrote this poem in 1822 in New York. I'd like to believe he would enjoy my version for gardeners everywhere. Jan Nelson; (831) 335-1708; [email protected]. Slowing Down, Reflecting on a Life of Service Susan Suddjian, Landscape Architect – CAELI Landscape Architecture As the days grow shorter and daylight fades, our thoughts turn inward. What is it about winter that causes us to pause and reflect upon our lives? To take stock, so to speak, of where we’ve been, how far we’ve come, and


where we’re headed. And to enjoy the present… to slow down and cherish the treasures held dear: children, nature, home, family. I love the slow days of winter because, for several years, my life was occupied with many busy things: babies, home schooling three sons, coordinating school groups, planning field trips, visiting the elderly, teaching classes – a service-oriented lifestyle. My recent return to landscape design has been busy too: in a span of three years I became a licensed landscape architect, earned a second degree in horticulture, and started a design business. Throughout our profession work is slowing down. Spring garden planning will be here soon, but for now I relish these long, unhurried days. As I reflect upon my professional life this year, I recognize that what I love most is providing a valuable service for people. Above the pay and the (perceived) “glamour” of this job, the most gratifying thing is hearing a client say, “I never would have thought of that,” and “thank you so much!” Spiritually speaking, I strive to have the heart of a servant, and I find I am happiest when I am serving others. But there are frustrations too. Although I greatly enjoy residential design, clients can be challenging to work with, it can be difficult to always be “creative” (competing with all the talented designers out there), and my training and skills as a landscape architect often go under-utilized. I worked hard for my Cal Poly L.Arch degree and license, but as an independent, seldom do I have the opportunity to put the hard-won design/construction skills of grading, drainage, site-planning and irrigation design to full use. Many of us have professional or technical skills that can benefit other designers; perhaps we can create opportunities to work together and benefit from our shared expertise and talents. As I sip tea by the fire, enjoying the occasions that allow for introspection, it occurs to me that what I love best in life is providing a service to others and collaborating with others toward a common good. Ego has no place in a servant’s heart – my goal is to lend a helping hand. My fellow designers, I wish for you warmth and quiet time to reflect upon your own life, and may your winter days be blessed. Susan Suddjian, (831) 479-9603, [email protected]

News and... Other Items of Interest


APLD Members Invited to New California State Flower & Garden Show Jan Corcoran APLD designers are invited to create a vision of a “Walk through California” for the new,

comprehensive, statewide flower and garden show to debut April 8 through 11, 2010 at Cal Expo. Produced by Cal State Shows, the event is designed to capture the broad diversity of California’s horticultural and gardening communities, showcasing plants, techniques and products representative of the state’s numerous micro-climates. With almost 30,000 square feet set aside for display gardens, Cal State Shows invites APLD members to help create gardens that bring to life the state’s extraordinary diversity. In the midst of so much variety, creative possibilities are limitless. To aid in the creative efforts, Cal State Shows is pleased to present sponsors Roundtree Rock & Gardening and Mid-Valley Rock, who will provide a wide range of mulch, bark, rock, boulder and flagstone. Show director and Cal State Shows owner Sherry Larsen explains the show’s concept: “In addition to the talents and expertise of other Northern California shows, we wish to convey more of the state’s and the gardening community’s diversity. Our goal is to bring together a broader segment of gardeners and landscapers to share their common interests and ideas.” Click here for more. Independent Workers Resource If you didn’t catch the recent discussion on PBS about independent workers, check out Freelancers Union, a national membership organization that offers products such as insurance and retirement packages; it also provides political advocacy for all independent workers. It’s free to join when you complete this first step at: https://be.freelancersunion.org/f/verify/00796; or contact Member Services at: 800-856-9981; E-mail: [email protected]; www.FreelancersUnion.org. Check your Fuel Economy Nate Crosby, Crosby Landscaping To determine the impact, greenhouse gas emissions and MPG of your vehicle, check out this useful site:


http://www.fueleconomy.gov/FEG/byfuel/Diesel2005.shtml.



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Date Tuesday, December 1, 2009; 10 AM – 4 PM Title California Chapter Board Meeting Sponsored by California ChapterContact Tina Roushall, Chapter Secretary, [email protected] None


Description


Date Tuesday, December 1, 2009; 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Title A Look at Vectorworks 2010, and Using Vectorworks with

WELO Projects Sponsored by East Bay District

Contact Sharon Gibson; [email protected]. Additional information at www.vectorworks.net

Cost None

Location Landscape Horticulture Department, Room H-101, Merritt College, Oakland.You are cordially invited to attend a demonstration of the newest release of Vectorworks (version 2010), presented by Nemetschek North America or NNA, a California Chapter Gold Sponsor since 2007. Eric Gilbey, NNA's resident landscape architect and industry specialist, will demonstrate some of Vectorworks' and Landmark's newest features. Besides highlighting the new release, Eric will also discuss how landscape designers might leverage existing Vectorworks capabilities to assist with the water budget calculations & documentation required by the new state Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO). Eric plans to demonstrate a prototype approach, using the capabilities & techniques below:

1. VW Landscape Area Tool (VW2009, VW2010) to help with hydrozoning, area calculations, and labeling.

2. VW Record Formats (all releases) to allow customized data (such as the WUCOLS plant factor) to be attached to each plant object.


Description

3. VW Worksheets (all releases) to pull data from plant objects and make the necessary water use calculations; this might include options for different irrigation efficiencies. If the estimated water use were too high, the designer could then adjust the planting scheme and immediately recalculate.

Since WELO is so new to all of us, we'll also have an open dialog to discuss whether the suggested approach seems viable, and if not, what alternative techniques might be more appropriate. Your input at the meeting will be valuable and appreciated. This event is co-sponsored by APLD East Bay District and the Merritt College Landscape Horticulture Department. All are welcome. Light refreshments will be provided. Parking at the Landscape Horticulture Department is limited, so carpooling is strongly encouraged. Parking is $1.00; it's best to bring quarters. BONUS EVENT: From 4-6PM, immediately preceding the NNA event, Chris Grampp's Landscape Design Forum will feature a related topic: Horticulture student Eric Broberg will discuss some grey water installations he's done, and we'll look at some short videos on the topic. This is a subject that more and more of us will need to get up to speed on as water conservation becomes mandatory (which it is on its way to becoming). Come early if you would like to attend both events.

Date Wednesday, December 2, 2009; 6:00 PM - 9:30 PMTitle Peninsula District Xmas PartySponsored by Peninsula District Contact Shannon Swain; [email protected]

Cost RSVP encouraged, but not required. None for all APLD members, $10 for non-members and $5 for students with student IDs.

Location To be determinedDescription Date Tuesday, December 8, 2009; 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Title The Devil's in the Details: Design Tips from APLD

Conferences & BeyondSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson; [email protected] None

Location NON-STANDARD LOCATION: Merritt College, Landscape Horticulture Department, Room H-101, 12500 Campus Dr., Oakland, CA

Description

Please join us for a special joint meeting of the APLD-CA East Bay District and the Merritt College Landscape Design Forum, to be held at the Merritt College Landscape Horticulture Department. Have you ever struggled for ideas on designing a different type of fence? Have you ever wondered about how to blend a cultivated landscape with a natural landscape? Do you like COR-TEN® steel but need different ideas on how to use it? Have you thought about how to incorporate house walls into your landscape? Do you want to reuse old concrete but hate the look of urbanite walls? Do you know how to transition from one hardscape material to another? These are just a few of the many tips that East Bay District President-Elect Lorraine Edel has picked up from APLD Conferences and garden tours.


Come for a pictorial presentation of some fabulous gardens and unique ideas, and get a taste of what APLD has to offer! Lorraine Edel is an experienced landscape designer. She received her degree in Ornamental Horticulture from Foothill College and has worked throughout the Bay Area for many years. She is currently the Vice President of APLD-CA East Bay District, and has served in several capacities throughout her seven year membership. Lorraine is also a certified Bay Friendly Landscaper. For directions to the Landscape Horticulture Department at Merritt College, see map on the APLDCA Events Calendar. Note that parking is $1.00; bring quarters for the machine.

Date Sunday, December 13, 2009; 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Title East Bay District Holiday PartySponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Sharon Gibson. Please RSVP to Sharon at [email protected] None for members and their guest.

Location Philae Carver's home, Orinda, CA. Address & directions will be emailed with RSVP.

Description

SAVE THE DATE! You and your guest are cordially invited to the East Bay District Holiday Party, to be held at the home of member Philae Carver. Please join us as we celebrate 2009 and look forward to 2010. Heavy hors d'oeuvres and merry libations! Please RSVP to Sharon Gibson at [email protected]. Address & directions will be provided.

Date Wednesday, December 16, 2009; 6:30 PM - 9:00 PMTitle North Bay District Holiday Party Sponsored by North Bay District

Contact Cynthia Sumner; [email protected] Additional information:http://www.wildfoxrestaurant.com/

Cost $25 per person

Location Wild Fox Restaurant, 225 Alameda del Prado, Novato. Phone: 415-883-9125

Description

It’s that time of year again! Please join us for a social mixer to celebrate the season, our wonderful sponsors and new members Enjoy an evening getting to know fellow designers and meeting our sponsors. Hear about our programming plans for 2010, with an update on the APLD International Conference to be held in the Bay Area in 2012. We’ll also ring in the new District Board and Chairs and cheer them on. Buffet and no-host bar. Non-members and Guests welcome. Sponsors, new District members for 2010 and the first 10 renewing District members are invited at no cost! RSVP required. Please reply no later than December 10th to [email protected], or contact Cynthia Sumner for more info at 707-480-8642.

Date Tuesday January 12, 2010; 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Title Everything You Need to Know About the New Water

Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO) Sponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Tim Hawkins; [email protected] Cost Members: $5.00. Visitors: $15.00. Non-member Students with

id: $10.00. ($5.00 is for room rental). Location Veterans Memorial Building, 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette.

This set of regulations significantly impacts landscape designers, irrigation contractors, and landscape contractors


Description

state-wide, by setting guidelines for water use in the landscape. It became effective September 1, 2009, but local counties and agencies have until January 1, 2010 to develop their own guidelines (which must be at least as stringent) or accept those dictated by the state. Our speaker, Chris Todd, will explain what this means to us as landscape designers, and how we might incorporate meeting these regulations into our practices. Chris Todd, of Garden Escapes by Chris Todd, has been designing sustainable and drought-tolerant gardens since 2000. Her major goals are water conservation and client education. The State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) provides an opportunity to educate colleagues as well. She sees MWELO as a well written document for guiding designers to the next step in designing sustainable landscapes and preparing for the water shortages of the future. Chris is a certified member of APLD, a board member of the Sustainable Landscape Roundtable and Yahoo group, and is active in the Gardening with Natives subcommittee of the California Native Plants Society, CLCA, and the Western Horticulture Society. She has given talks on Using California Native Plants in the Garden, the MWELO, and the Soil Food Web. Previously a nurse, Chris is dedicated to making healthier environments for her clients.

Date Wednesday, January 13, 2010Title North Bay District MeetingsSponsored by North Bay DistrictContact Cynthia Sumner; [email protected] Cost To be determinedLocation To be determined

Description North Bay District meetings are tentatively set for the 2nd Wednesday of the month (with exceptions). Locations and times to be determined. Please see individual entries in this calendar for more details about a specific month's event(s).

Date Wednesday, January 20, 2010; 8:00 AM - 4:00 PMTitle Sacramento Valley Landscape & Nursery Expo Sponsored by Sacramento District

Contact Michelle Helzer; [email protected] . Additional Information http://www.sacvalexpo.com

Cost Location The Sacramento Community Convention Center Downtown @

14th and J St. Sacramento, CA Presented by APLD, CLCA, & CANGC Attend the APLD Sponsored LANDSCAPE DESIGN TRACK! (Watch for CEU details which will be forthcoming.) 9 – 10:00 Planning For Green Space Are you stuck using the same plant palate? Want to expand your designs using the research and specifications used by city planners and developers? Be inspired by truly sustainable public, private and community gardens. Practical and motivational for both designers and contractors. Bill Maynard, City of Sacramento Community Garden Program Coodinator 10:30 – 11:30 The Power of Succulents: Aesthetics & Design Create beautiful gardens with the architecture, color and texture that succulents provide. Whether planted en masse or as specimens, their unusual form and low-water use make them an important element in modern landscape design. Designs


Description

ideas, interesting combinations, descriptions, culture and care will be provided in this complete catalog of succulents. Hank Jenkins, Plant Architect and owner of Lushland Design; www.lushlanddesign.com 1:00 – 2:00 Expand your Business: Be the Water Management Expert We all know the importance of the matching the appropriate amount of water to the soil and plant types. Gain the confidence in communicating this to your potential customers through this comprehensive presentation and gain more customers! Lori’s Irrigation Spreadsheet allows you to present to your clients watering schedules for healthy and sustainable gardens. Lori Palmquist, CIC, CLIA, CWCM-L Landscape Contractor EPA WaterSense Partner; CLCA Certified Landscape Water Manager 2:30 – 3:30 Gardens of Spirit of Place Learn to design gardens that thrive in our California climate. Explore the wonderful perennial gardens of the foothills, edibles in the landscape, creating rooms in new and existing gardens, designing for gardens with deer and more. Carolyn Singer, Gardener, Designer, Teacher, Writer and owner of Carolyn Singer Gardens. www.carolynsingergardens.com

Date Friday, January 22, 2010; 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM Title East Bay District Board MeetingSponsored by East Bay DistrictContact Tim Hawkins; [email protected] Cost None


Description


Date Wednesday, January 27, 2010; 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Title Peninsula District MeetingsSponsored by Peninsula DistrictContact Shannon Swain; [email protected]

Cost RSVP encouraged, but not required. None for all APLD members, $10 for non-members and $5 for students with student IDs.

Location Varies

Description

The Peninsula District typically meets the fourth Wednesday of most months, from 3:00 to 5:30 PM. Location will vary. Please check individual entries in this calendar for specific information on each meeting.





APLD APLD California Chapter California Chapter January ...Friday, January 23, 2009 East Bay...

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