TheWrightScoop's blog

Did you know Social Networking websites continue to gain media market share? Facebook, www.facebook.com, recently announced it has reached over 400 million worldwide users and Twitter, www.Twitter.com, follows in its foot steps with reaching a benchmark of 50 million tweets per day. Together, Facebook and Twitter boast triple-digit growth in 2009 and presently account for 11% of all consumer time spent online.

Not only have user accounts experienced significant growth but time spent surfing social networking sites. In fact, a report from the Nielsen Company indicates a huge increase of 82%. This research concludes overall social media sites such as Facebook are the more common user homepage and people now spend the majority of their internet time either using a form of social network or blog. So, the question is ‘in relation to use of social media as a marketing or public relations tool to create ‘green awareness’, what is your level of participation?’

Believe it or not, during a volunteer ‘green’ advocacy activity, I recently had its leadership mandate that formats of social media could not be used to communicate their activities. Yes, you read the prior sentence correctly. Not only is this sector failing to adequately communicate its presence, it has mandated its failure to accept a viable present-day communication, social media.

On the contrary, let me share the success story of my colleague Kathy Jentz, editor & publisher for Washington Gardener magazine – www.washingtongardener.com. I first met Kathy through an Industry organization, the National Garden Writers Association. Since start up of her publication, I’ve contributed back-page columns, cover-story contributing writer features; and recently, participated in her 5th year anniversary celebration. So, I’ve watched Kathy transform an idea into a viable media business. As a result, the story of Kathy’s start up business is featured by Magazine Launch, http://www.magazinelaunch.com/case-studies/washington-gardener-magazine-....

This case study reveals tips and strategies for the implementation of successful print, online newsletter, blog and other forms of social media usage. Still, specific to Kathy’s online presence, is there additional proof of her success? Yes, a ‘google search’ reveals more than 137,000 web links exist, supporting the concept that all forms of web activity including social media are viable formats of communication.

Nevertheless, there are people and organizations that continue to fear usage of online formats; and to be candid, as in any form of media whether paper or electronic, there are privacy issues. So,
• don’t use a weak password, a good technique is to insert numbers within alpha characters,
• don’t except under secure circumstances provide your full birth date and/or credit card number,
• limit access to private information to a select few,
• specific to children, don’t include identifying name and/or home location,
• don’t mention ‘when you will not be home’,
• specific to Facebook, establish a secure personal home page and then, create groups that are used to advertise your professional, civic and/or business activities;
• in other words, apply the same caution applied in any other area of personal/business communications.

Having discussed the ‘don’t’ of social media formats, why participate? To simply state the obvious – it works! So, separate personal from professional or special interests. For example, I maintain a personal Facebook page and through this activity have acquired numerous ‘friends’ who share common interests. I also maintain my professional business group – The Wright Scoop, a community special interest group – Laurel Historic District Virginia, a professional networking group – Richmond Women’s Network and a cultural arts group – the National League of American Pen Women (arts, music and writing). As illustrated by my activities, use of social media is an array of opportunity.

So, where are you in your level of present-day media format participation? Are you refusing as the mentioned Industry organization to so to speak ‘get with the program’ or are you striving for all-star status such as my colleague Kathy? Related to personal exploration, are you prodding along at the rate of a prior era or pacing at the rate of a world-wide-web globe traveler? To share comments, ideas or strategies related to this subject or other communication topics, post comment or contact me at Sylvia@TheWrightScoop.com. Or, acquire a copy of my book - The ABCs of Green Industry Communications: assess, brand & communicate, http://www.lulu.com/content/6083320, which challenges all to ‘grow green their market share’. Together, let’s create a series of column topics that are helpful to the Industry. For additional details, link to www.TheWrightScoop.com.

This is the year of extremes - excessive cold and now, hot: an extended season of back to back 100 degree days with little or no rain. So, if your lawn is similar to my lawn - it is stressed.

Here are a few tips and strategies shared by my colleague Mike Goatley, Jr., Extension Turfgrass Specialist, Virginia Tech ---- "Cool season turfgrasses throughout Virginia are experiencing difficulties associated with summer heat stress. Heat stress results in the grass becoming weakened to the extent that it becomes much more vulnerable to both mechanical and biological stress. Summer decline is therefore a complex of individual factors that can interact to cause more summer problems than each individual stress acting alone.
Extremely high day time temperatures of over 90 degrees, night time temperatures above 70 degrees, and high humidity, have combined to place cool-season turf under significant heat stress. The fact that these conditions have relentlessly persisted for many since mid-May (especially in central and eastern Virginia) has resulted in direct heat stress injury as well as making the turf more vulnerable to damage from other summer related stresses (e.g.; excessively close mowing, traffic and wear, warm weather fungal diseases, poor water quality, poor soil drainage, poor air movement, insect damage etc.). As a result, heat related injury and the associated decline in turf quality is often a result of a complex of individual factors acting together. For this reason it is often difficult to get a handle on specific causes of summer decline. Put quite plainly, during a period of mid-summer heat stress like we had during the past month, the grass plants are more vulnerable to everything that can cause damage. During cooler times of the year these stresses are either non-existent or the grass is healthier and more tolerant. Besides air and soil temperatures, another extremely important environmental influence on the plants ability to cool itself through transpiration is the relative humidity. At high relative humidity the plant is much less able to effectively cool itself and as a result is even more prone to heat buildup and direct heat injury.
An important point to remember in measuring heat stress is that standard meteorological weather data records temperature at 5 ft. above the ground and that temperatures at the turf level may exceed the recorded high. In southside Va recently, when air temperatures were 93o F, the actual temperature at the surface canopy of a bentgrass/Poa putting green was 106o F. Note that concerns with the heat are not only limited to natural grass systems – many artificial turf fields have (or should have been) rendered unsuited for play because field surface temperatures have reached the 140 to 150o F levels during the day, temperature levels that present safety concerns to field users. In addition, high air temperatures are only part of the cause of reduced plant vigor. Prolonged heat stress significantly increases soil temperatures and soil temperatures greatly influence root growth, root health and function. Spring high temperatures are less damaging since the root is in a cooler soil environment. As summer arrives the night temperatures are less cooling on the soil and soil temperatures rise. High soil temperatures result in less root production, rapid root maturation and die back, and little production of new roots. Above ground the turf thins and individual plants become more spindly
A profile of each site and its isolated microenvironments will involve a number of “inventories” as they relate to susceptibility to prolonged heat stress. Conditions and brief explanations of how they might influence summer decline of cool-season turf follows:

Cutting heights: For the summer of 2010, taller mowed turf is logically performing better than grasses being mowed at heights that are ideal only during periods of optimal growth. Cool-season lawns of 4” cutting heights have survived the heat and drought much better than those cut at 1-2 inches. Although 4” cutting heights are not suitable for sports turf use, again, taller mowed fields have performed significantly better during the summer. Some recovery in cool-season turf is already being noted following spotty rain events. However, many cool-season turfs have been invaded by heavy populations of summer annual grasses such as crabgrass, goosegrass, and foxtail. These grasses will die at first frost and will then lead to invasion by annual bluegrass and other winter annual weeds. Make plans now to initiate reseeding of these damaged areas in late August/early September in advance of the biggest window of annual bluegrass germination (after considering possible limitations from weed control programs detailed below). Choose the best grass possible by consulting the Turfgrass Variety Recommendations List from Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Traffic Stress: Heavily trafficked areas have logically suffered during periods of summer stress. Traffic damage will be slow to recover with reduced plant vigor. Higher mowing heights will help in this regard. Plan on reseeding these areas as described above, and where traffic continues (i.e. sports fields) continue to apply small amounts of seed throughout the playing season of the fall.

Public Perception and Maintaining Maximum Aesthetics/Playability: The public ‘expects’ green grass 12 months out of the year. That obviously is not possible even in an ‘ideal’ growing season in a transition zone state such as Virginia. Seasonal environmental conditions will often dictate what should and should not be done to the grass to maintain its ‘aesthetics’ and its ‘playability’. On average, much of the climate of central and eastern Virginia is better suited to warm-season grasses than cool-season turf, so where persistent problems arise on an annual basis, consider if there is not a better species of turfgrass available for your particular area and turf uses. The fall season will provide the opportunity for significant cool-season turf recovery and the memories associated with the summer of 2010 will slowly fade. However, the problems will return during the next ‘difficult’ summer in our future. A turf management program should be flexible to “ebb and flow” with the vagaries of weather, especially in the mid-Atlantic transition zone environment.

Irrigation: As a rule of thumb, continue to irrigate deeply and frequently (using the 1” of water per week guide) IF you have been irrigating this summer. If not, apply no supplemental irrigation (i.e. hopefully allow the turf to remain dormant) and wait for more optimal growing conditions this fall. Continue to irrigate early in the morning in order to reduce leaf wetness periods (i.e. reduce disease infection periods) and ensure your system is applying water efficiently (check heads and nozzles for application pattern, ensure water is not running of the soil, etc.).

Summer Diseases and Insect Pests: Rhizoctonia Brown Patch is most active under warm day temperatures and warm nights (>70 degrees). Heat stress weakens plants and they can become more susceptible to disease activity at a time of year when the disease pressure is the greatest. Fungicides are often applied more frequently and at higher rates in an attempt to control the pathogens. Anticipate grub problems to be exacerbated on weakened turf and be prepared to address significant activity of fall armyworms and cutworms during late summer. Recommendations on disease and insect control are available in the Pest Management Guide through Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Weed control: In general refrain from chemical weed control treatments during summer stress periods. The typical size and growth rate of summer annual weeds (things like crabgrass) is so significant at this time that chemical treatments will likely have little to no effect and/or damage the existing cool-season turfgrass. Applications of standard preemergent herbicides can be made this fall for the control of winter annual weeds, BUT REMEMBER THAT THESE PRODUCTS WILL ALSO CONTROL ANY GRASS APPLIED DURING RENOVATION EVENTS. If your turf is heavily infested with perennial broadleaf weeds (things like clover, dandelions, plantains, etc.), fall is an ideal time to control these pests. Choose appropriate chemicals from the Pest Management Guide and make plans to treat accordingly.

Soil Aeration: The soil must be well aerated for plants to function. Soils that become sealed off at the surface, from compaction, will impair root growth and function and the ability of the turf to cool itself. Tight soils will not readily absorb water and it can make efforts at irrigation difficult. Tight soils, once wet, can often stay wet too long. Plan on utilizing core aeration to improve physical soil conditions this fall, and tie the aeration event to seeding or liming (as indicated by soil testing) applications. Also, topdressing 1-2x per year with ¼ inch depth of a quality compost will improve physical and chemical soil conditions, and its application also is enhanced when done in conjunction with core aeration.

Fertilization: Conduct a soil test if it has not been performed for the past 3 years. There are numerous private labs that offer this service or you can work with your local VCE agent in having the Virginia Tech lab conduct the test. Fall is the ideal time to benefit from nitrogen applications on cool-season grasses, and after a stressful summer, it is an important part of the grass’ recovery program. During the shorter, cooler days of fall, cool-season turfgrasses devote much of the food they produce in photosynthesis to root systems and storage for later use. Depending on the grass and the expectations/uses of the turf, up to 3 lbs N/1000 sq ft can be applied during the fall months of September, October, and November; apply no more than 1 lb of N/1000 sq ft per month. Apply no more than 1 pound of water soluble N per 1000 sq ft in a single application, and when possible, split the application of water soluble fertilizer into two 0.5 lb N increments. Use phosphate-free fertilizers (example 32-0-10) if soil tests indicate no phosphorus is needed. And be sure to keep all fertilizer off hardscapes in order to protect water quality.
In conclusion, summer heat injury is complex. However, one difference is that we notice the decline as it happens and try to respond in an appropriate manner."

Why should you be concerned related to management of lawn green? Each 50 by 50 square foot green space provides the air quality for a family of four - what are you doing to insure air quality in your area?

More than two years ago, I invited the Industry to explore the world of Green Industry communications. Since extending this invitation, I’ve researched and published articles with Green Profit and Today’s Garden Center magazines, used my ongoing Industry column to gather as well as share tips and strategies; and, combined long-term business experience with Industry specific research to publish a book as well as provide speeches, workshops and one-on-one consulting. Nevertheless, it was during a recent event, the Floriculture Expo – www.floriexpo.com, that I identified an analogy, a comparison of the Expo to modern-day travel.

During the era of my parents’ youth, a day-trip covered 40 or fewer miles. Yet, I on other hand, travelled during this event to four states covering 1000s of miles. So, my comparison is, ‘are you exploring present-day communications at the rate of a prior era or experiencing it at the pace of a globe traveler?’

As an event speaker, I challenge attendees to compare their activities to my ‘talking points’; questioning their niche market accomplishment, understanding of branding techniques and application of communication formats that work-well in a selected market. During the Expo session, some attendees readily admit their lack of knowledge and experience while others indicated various levels of accomplishment.

I deliberately walk a trade show prior to my session and use this opportunity to identify exhibitors that illustrate ‘talking points’. Then, after the session, I again, walk the show and continue to document illustrative displays. Specific to the 2010 Floriculture Expo, I’d say I agree with the assessment of Bob Callahan Show Director for the Floriculture Expo.

“What is most impressive,” says Callahan “is we continue to hear of a positive vibe and energy on the show floor that had not been experienced in prior years. Through the use of survey input, we could not be happier with the results. Although we are only in the beginning stage of expanding the show, this year’s event laid a foundation for attracting new segments. In fact, many of these exhibitors have already signed up to participate in next year’s event. . . . After the show closed at 5pm, there was a tremendous amount of networking which at times, continued for up to an hour after the show closed. We have not experienced this level of participation during past events.”

To be candid, I am not surprised by Callahan’s observation. This was an event that most certainly appealed to the ‘sensory’ – touch, taste, see, hear and smell – aspect of consumer marketing. Outstanding product and service displays entice buyers to purchase and exhibitors to explore. So, what was the difference? I’d say the Expo was formatted – communicated – in such a way as to appeal to its niche market and presented in a layout and design illustrative of effective branding techniques which were supported by communication formats that clearly stated the event’s message ‘connecting the Industry, from seed to shelf’.

Related to your exploration, are you prodding along at the rate of a prior era or pacing at the rate of a globe traveler? Are you an Industry participant who clearly communicates his/her message? To share comments, ideas or strategies related to this subject or other communication topics, contact me at Sylvia@TheWrightScoop.com or post comment below. For additional tips/strageties, acquire a copy of my book - The ABCs of Green Industry Communications: assess, brand & communicate, http://www.lulu.com/content/6083320.

Eco-chic, traditionally defined as ‘providing for the present without sacrificing the future’, is more than life-style choices. It includes acquiring a healthy respect for the eco-consequence of these choices.

A few years ago, USA Today newspaper printed an insert titled ‘Is there a safe place to live?’ Nation-wide escalating forms of climate change were depicted. Yet, although daily reminded of these eco-consequences, are you presently aware of the severity of increased weather cycles?

A margarine advertisement once announced Mother Nature’s displeasure for being fooled into thinking a product was real butter. In anger, she said, “It’s not nice to fool Mother Nature.” Waving her arms black clouds swirled, thunder bellowed and lightning slithered through the sky. I was reminded of this advertisement when I watched a more than 100-year old oak glow as if lighted and shake from its leaf tips to roots. Struck by lightening, bark peeled in strips, hung rope-like through out the tree and pieces were scattered for 50 or more feet.

Through this experience, I most certainly gained perspective of the effect of severe storms; but, if you heard thunder or saw lightening, what would you do? Would you run outside to retrieve trivial items; or, seek shelter?

If you are aware of a pending storm and inside, safety measures are to unplug appliances, avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliance; and, because water is a conductor, don’t take a bath or shower, or run water for any other purpose. If you are outside boating or swimming, immediately get to land and find shelter. Limit exposure by seeking out a low-lying, open place away from trees, poles or metal objects. At the same time, make sure the place is not subject to flooding. The goal is to make your self as small a target as possible; so, squat low to the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Do not lie flat on the ground because laying flat can make you a larger target.

According to meteorological experts at The National Weather Channel http://www.nws.noaa.gov/, the best ally for dealing with severe weather situations is to be informed, aware of evacuation plans, the location of shelters and keep a copy of area guidelines in an easily accessible place such as a phone book. It is also wise to be aware that lightning can occur when it’s not raining and the straight-line winds of a thunderstorm can exceed 100 mph which are more damaging than the winds of most tornados.

As urban/suburban communities, we need to acquire a healthy respect for the eco-consequence of our life-style choices. Become aware that while weather cycles such as thunder-storms do provide optimal natural rain fall, these storms should be greeted with caution. If you hear distant thunder and think it harmless to run outside and retrieve trivial items, be warned it could be the last activity of your life. For it’s not only not nice to fool Mother Nature, it’s not wise to fool-around with her either.

Gardens continue to burst forth with blooms illustrating why as a nation we not only designate the month of May but June too as national Flower Month.

I am in awe of the splendor of year 2010 blooms. I’ve observed an unusual quantity, size, health and aesthetic beauty. Whether a fragile rose or hardy hydrangea, all peak in blossom. Still, typically, there are plants that over time acquire distinction.

As an advocate for sustainability, not simply a use of plants that work-well in a region but those that contribute to regional economic sustainability: developed, grown and distributed within their community, I want to make you aware of a Virginia implemented plant introduction program Beautiful Gardens®, www.BeautifulGardens.org.

Beautiful Gardens® focus is ‘Plants of Distinction’, plants tested across varied climactic zones through out the state of Virginia. To initiate the program, eleven underutilized plants which performed well in USDA hardiness/AHS heat zones 6a/2 to 8a/7, the range of state of Virginia plant zones, were identified and promoted. In 2010, the program added eight plants. Additional detail is available by linking to web site www.beautifulgardens.org option ‘Plants of Distinction10’.

Gardening colleague Linda Pinkham, who has been involved in the development of this program since 2002, first opened her garden as a test site and recently as an activity for the 2010 Virginia Garden Week. Through experience, Linda found the foliage of Cercis canadensis ‘Hearts of Gold’ Eastern Redbud to hold up throughout the summer. She identified Buxus sempervirens ‘Dee Runk’ American Boxwood to provide vertical accents and work-well in sunny or shady situations. Corylopsis pauciflora ‘Goldleaf Buttercup’ Winterhazel was identified as a great plant that announced spring with its soft yellow "bells" blooms and Dryopteris erythrosora ‘Brilliance’ Autumn Fern to work in almost any shaded area. Eucomis ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ Pineapple Lily Eucomis in Linda’s Tidewater region emerges in late spring and provides foliage during the hottest summer months. Yucca filamentosa ‘Color Guard’, she found, was more versatile than expected providing linear lines that create design focal points. But it was Schizachyrium scoparium ‘The Blues’ Little Bluestem Grass, a native grass, which proved excellent for her region’s dry spots and Rudbeckia subtomentosa ‘Henry Eilers’ Coneflower that performed differently than any other form of Rudbeckias in her garden.

While I don’t have Linda’s varied experience with these plants, I can vouch for Virginia native plants - redbud and Rudbeckias, ‘black-eye Susans’. I’ve found these ‘plants of distinction’ to not only work-well but trigger memories of my grandparent’s farm, a site surrounded by colorful redbud woodland and golden bloom Rudbeckias meadows. As program spokesperson Neal Beasley says, “The Beautiful Gardens® program provides Virginians with a wide-range of choice supported by demonstrated sustainable use, an opportunity to identify – connect – with ‘living green’.”

Both in my book, From Eco-weak to Eco-chic: landscape green (http://www.lulu.com/content/paperback-book/from-eco-weak-to-eco-chic-lan...) and during ongoing eco-landscape activities, I advocate the installation and maintenance of sustainable landscapes. For, as urban/suburban Communities, we need to be aware of the eco-consequences of individual choices and insure Beautiful Gardens grow with confidence®.

When gardens burst forth with bloom, nostalgia unexpectedly creeps into my experience. It is triggered by the sweet-scent of blooming flowers, a garden activity or the sight of prospering plants shared by another gardener. For, I am reminded when I see plants in bloom that were transplanted from the gardens of my mother, grandmother or elderly aunts.

I enjoy sitting outside in a garden space, smelling the sweet-scent of blooming flowers, listening to the hum of visiting bees, and reminiscing of a gardening era presently labeled heritage. Still, while ‘living green’ texture, color and fragrance should be enjoyed, it is more important that each of us understand its life-supporting role.

The month of May is designated both national flower and clean air month, a time to celebrate the beauty and health of ‘living green’; but were you aware of this connection? Research conducted by Virginia’s land grant university Virginia Tech identifies each 50 by 50 square foot space whether planted with turf or other plant material or a mid to large size tree to annually provide the air quality for a family of four.

My colleague Alex X. Niemiera, Extension Horticulturist for the department of Horticulture at Virginia Tech, has further identified landscaping to significantly influence perceived property value. In fact, the value of landscaping appears to range dependent upon location: 5.5 percent (Louisiana) to 11.4 percent (South Carolina). In other words, a home valued at $150,000 with no landscape (lawn only) could be worth $8,250 to $19,050 more with a sophisticated landscape that includes color and large plants.

So, whether your motivation is to recapture an era of yesterday or contribute to air quality or insure the value of your real-estate, invest in eco-landscaping. In my newly published book, From Eco-weak to Eco-chic: landscape green (http://www.lulu.com/content/paperback-book/from-eco-weak-to-eco-chic-lan...), I emphasize eco-landscape concepts. In honor of national Flower Month, I want to spotlight a flowering shrub, 'Limelight' Hardy Hydrangea, http://www.provenwinners.com/plants/detail.cfm?photoID=7687. Not only have I found this shrub to work-well but provide ongoing seasonal interest. It jump-starts spring with unique bright chartreuse blooms. From mid-summer to fall, the blooms hold a refreshing color; and before frost, become tinged with pink. Then, during winter, the blooms extend the gardening season as dry fluffy puffs.

Although ‘Limelight’ hydrangea is not in the category of plants that make me reminisce, when seasonal cool, gray skies and shorten-days of winter begin, I look out my home-office window and am reminded by its dried blooms of the promise of spring. And, perhaps, some day because of its seasonal beauty, this shrub will trigger nostalgia for my grandchildren. So, my question to you is “Are you participating in activities that celebrate the beauty and health of ‘living green’?” For, landscapes should not simply be aesthetically pleasing but offset the carbon atmosphere that plagues urban environments.

To acquire a ‘free’ garden design that features 'Limelight' Hardy Hydrangea or to share comments, ideas or strategies on this or similar topics, contact me. Together, let’s identify column topics that enable awareness of ‘living green’, create a legacy of eco-healthy spaces.

From suburban home lot to the country seat, women have designed, cultivated and reshaped the American scene, moving from the "harbinger of a gentle heart" to women of power and influence.

So, present-day industries tend to forget that at the turn of the century, it was considered almost social suicide and distinctly matrimonial suicide, for a woman to enter a profession. Still, it did not deter the notable efforts of women such as Virginia Estelle Randolph, a pioneer educator and humanitarian who lived from 1874 to 1958. She opened the old Mountain Road School in 1892 and conducted the first Arbor Day program in Virginia.

Still, Susan Kappel of Creatrix Landscape Design has observed “the nursery, maintenance and installation sides of the Green Industry remain male dominated.” On the other hand, Jeff Miller, Executive Director for the VA Nursery and Landscape Association, has noticed “over the last 10 years plus that there are a lot more women owned and operated business in all phases of production, retail and landscaping.” Similarly, Leonard Morrow, Ph.D. former Program Head and Professor of Horticulture for J.S. Reynolds C.C. noticed a shift in the student population and in August 1992, sponsored the first informal meeting for professional women in the Green Industry.

In my book A Path Worn Smooth, I share stories of the influence of women who pride their selves in both ownership of and ‘hands-on’ working land in the form of agri as well as ornamental gardens, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge and heritage plants.

As we progress into this new century, let’s not forget to celebrate – honor – women who opened doors of opportunity. To listen to my story, link to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thereneebobbshow/2010/02/24/meet-the-award-... or attend a scheduled event, see www.TheWrightScoop.com calendar.

The month of March is ‘celebrate women in history’ month. Related to your self, who do you celebrate?

Green Education Foundation (GEF) is mobilizing two million children to participate in environmental educational programs during National Green Week 2010 (Feb. 1-5, 2010). The objective is to empower students to become environmental stewards within the context of their own lives.What are you doing to promote 2010 Green Week Feb 1-5? The Wright Scoop is promoting gardening green -

Whether experienced landscape professionals or novice homeowners, all are challenged to create landscapes from a sustainable point of view, seeking to reduce their carbon footprint as well as feed their families pesticide free produce. For any style garden should not simply illustrate traditional design but be the result of the right plant, installed in the right place at the right (optimal) planting season - creating a legacy of green, healthier urban/suburban communities.

As the recipient of the 2008 ‘Turn America from Eco-weak to Eco-chic’ award sponsored by Project Evergreen and Hines Horticulture – I encourage consumers to garden green, create sustainable urban/suburban landscapes.

The 2010 Difference –
Historically, earth-friendly strategies are defined in terms of reduce, reuse and recycle but eco-chic takes this definition a step further. “Eco-chic spaces are not just the result of lifestyle choices but a reflection of how we feel about the environment. While keeping it simple (as in simple living) is the name of the game, there is a more important underlying factor – a commitment to ultimate greening: providing for the present without sacrificing the future.”

A hands-on landscape gardener, I participate in nation-wide regional plant testing. As a result, I've gained familiarity with programs such as the ‘Southern Living Plant Collection’, ‘Proven Winners’, ‘Plants that Work’ and many more. During 2009, I advocated the idea that consumers take the concept of sustainability a step further, not simply a use of plants that works-well in their region but those that contribute to regional economic sustainability: developed, grown and distributed within their community.

To me, as a Central Virginia gardener, my advocacy means the support and use of a newly released plant introduction program, Beautiful Gardens®, www.beautifulgardens.org .

From Eco-weak to Eco-chic: landscape green
Nationally recognized as a contributing writer and communications specialist, I launched a book, From Eco-weak to Eco-chic: landscape green. Combining workshop style assignments with research and ‘hands-on’ experience, I share strategies that respect existing vistas, preserving and enhancing environmental health. Readers describe my book as

“Sylvia’s eco-chic advocacy embodies every aspect of the consumer education campaign we hoped to inspire,” said Den Gardner, executive director of Project EverGreen, www.projectevergreen.com. “The judges were impressed with her ongoing effort to teach eco-green. For, our vision is to be a global organization that empowers people within communities to change society through the responsible creation and preservation of sustainable green spaces, such that the ever-increasing impacts of global warming in the world are measurably reduced; because Green Matters!”

“Wright’s writing is thrilling, to tell the truth. She really nails it. I’ve laughed and loved her articles and columns. Her words remind me why I love to work in the earth in the first place.” -- Gigi Amateau, author of the acclaimed young adult novel Claiming Georgia Tate

“Sneed’s commitment to organics, the community and the environment,” says designer Jenny Jenkins-Rash of Sneed’s Nursery & Garden Center located in Richmond Virginia “are echoed in Wright’s book: the challenge for the present-day homeowner is to create a garden from an eco-chic point of view, a ‘waste not, and want not’ ecological commitment: be a caretaker for the environmental community. We support Wright’s advocacy through hosting book signings and having her book on site for sale.”

To review or acquire a copy, link to www.TheWrightScoop.com Sylvia's Store. Or, acquire a copy by visiting Sneed’s Nursery & Garden Center, www.sneedsnursery.com, located in Richmond VA on 8756 Huguenot Road.

Career History –
Somewhat jokingly, I refer to the history of my present-day title, eco-chic landscape gardener. Initially, media referred to my strategies as the by-product of a naturalist. Then, when I contributed to state-wide Virginia media publications, I became known as eco-wise. After speaking and publishing in the DC area, my work was referred to as eco- savvy. It was through participating in the annual Green Festival held in DC that I picked up the label, eco-chic. Nevertheless, regardless of the eco-title as long as people hear my message – strive to achieve ‘ultimate green’, I’m happy.

Details of my activities are available on web site www.TheWrightScoop.com. Join me in an effort to inspire 'garden green'!

During the holiday season, instead of trendy gifts, I donate for example a half day to rake an elderly friend’s yard, plant bulbs or begin the pruning process. On seasonable warm days, I encourage friends to sit nearby where they can see me at work. Then, adding to my visit, I share the bounty of my garden, perhaps providing vegetable soup as a meal.

So, this year when my colleague issued a challenge - 'a 30-day' giving event, I decided to accept and made a commitment to share green life-style tips and/or strategies. To view a complete list, link to GBTV blog The Wright Scoop, http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/green/9826.

Deciding to focus on both personal and professional networks, it was an eye-opening experience. For, it is through the act of giving that we gain the ability to see beyond ourselves.

Almost immediately a difference between traditional and 30-day gift giving activities occurred. The latter created a ‘consistent worth-while presence’. And, believe me when I say, it was not an easy task to identify 30 worth-while tips and/or strategies that provide universal appeal to a diverse mix of professionals.

Based on the concept “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. ~Galations 6:9”, a part of this challenge was to tally participant response. I expected to encounter people who would find the 30-day giving activity a bit overwhelming; still, I was surprised by the reaction of two ‘green’ colleagues. Both on numerous occasions directly benefit from the donation of my PR/marketing or ‘green’ skills; but, when expected to participate in reciprocal activities, opt to unsubscribed.

On the other hand, in contrast to the few who opt to unsubscribe, I received requests from individuals and groups through Facebook to ‘be a friend’, was notified by Twitter of requests to ‘follow my tweets’, received emailed messages that expand colleague networks; and related to the statistics of my web site usage, www.TheWrightScoop.com, it experienced more than a 100% increase in site traffic.

So, simply based on a tally of professional network responses, I’d say participation in my colleague’s challenge was successful; nevertheless, there were additional benefits. I acquired work assignments. In other words, through creating a consistent presence, the 30-day activity not only inspired others to participate but reciprocate, expanding professional networks and increasing market share.

The daily tips and/or strategies were so-to-speak a form of advertisement. And, through highlighting niche products or services, more defined networks were acquired both new as well as the elimination of participants with limited or self serving interests.

Although I may not again choose to participate in such an intense activity, I am grateful for the opportunity. During this holiday season, in addition to extra doggie, kitty and sticky grandchild kisses, I’ve reap a harvest, reciprocal acts of giving that enabled an opportunity to see beyond myself.

In the spirit of the holiday season, I extend the challenge to you. Create a consistent presence of ‘giving events’, share your skill, personal time or knowledge. Join me in a quest to green life’s garden one scoop at a time.

In celebration of my heritage – Quaker, I launched the publication of a collection of articles, columns and poetry – A Path Worn Smooth. To view details or order, link to http://www.lulu.com/content/5345570.

Although a 21st century family three generations removed from a Quaker heritage, I've identified one central guideline – caretaker – that continues to influence our legacy. Creating a future that holds a unique opportunity: the opportunity not to just be a caretaker but a person who cares! To be the person who sets a Climate, not merely adjusts to a preexisting one; creates an encouraging Attitude, not practices ambivalence; is Receptive to people without losing sight of personal needs; and demonstrates Empathy for others while keeping problems in perspective. Whether in a business, civic or community, be the person that 'cares'!”

Aware this legacy not only influences my caretaker perspective but all aspects of life experience, my family and I reside on 7th generation property located in Glen Allen, Virginia. To ensure environmental commitment, a portion of this property is placed under a protective ‘scenic easement.

In my book – A Path Worn Smooth, I invite readers to walk on a path worn smooth by generational expectation. Savor nostalgia for the places that are near and dear to heart, recall family traditions but more importantly, renew experiences. Challenging all to celebrate heritage because heritage is more than a possession, it is a gift: the birthright of our children.

As either a holiday or new year commitment, become an eco-caretaker. Move from eco-weak to eco-chic – ‘green’ life’s garden, one scoop at a time!