TheWrightScoop's blog

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!

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

Recently, I had a friend issue a challenge – participate in a 30-day giving event. For it is through the act of giving that we gain an ability to see beyond ourselves.

In response, I decided to give both personal and eco-professional tips. As I compiled my list of ‘giving’ green life-style tips and strategies, it reminded me of personal eco-commitments. Hopefully, you will find this list useful; and as always, you are welcome to post tips/strategies that work-well for you.

1st tip - measure your eco-footprint - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/5073

2nd tip – commit - http://www.pr.com/press-release/184690

3rd tip – measure your water-footprint - water-footprint - http://www.waterfootprint.org/?page=cal/waterfootprintcalculator_indv

Tip 4 - be water wise - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/conservation/8311

Tip 5 - improve air quality, plant a tree - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/cooling/9740

Tip 6 – value landscape - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/curb-appeal/9675

Tip 7 - green matters - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/green-matter-life-style/5249

Tip 8 - understand green - http://www2.richmond.com/content/2008/jan/14/eco-weak-to-eco-chic/

Tip 9 - educate your self - http://www.americanfarm.com/growtopstory4-01-04g.html

Tip10 - attend events - http://www.virginiagardening.com/virginiagardenfestival09.htm

Tip 11 - share knowledge - http://stores.lulu.com/syhwright

Tip 12 - partner with ‘gogreen’ colleagues – http://www.pr.com/press-release/179343

Tip 13 - communicate ‘gogreen’ - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/5755

Tip 14 - avoid green washing - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/greenwash/8712

Tip 15 - host events - http://www.authorsden.com/visit/viewevent.asp?AuthorID=109016

Tip 16 - tell your story – http://www.lulu.com/content/5596325

Tip 17 - host web site - http://www.thewrightscoop.com/

Tip 18 - identify niche - http://www.todaysgardencenter.com/magazine/?storyid=1971

Tips 19 - write a column - http://www.pr.com/press-release/151180

Tip 20 – write a blog – http://www.buildinggreentv.com/user/thewrightscoop/blog

Tip 21 - provide speeches - http://www.landscapeonline.com/research/article/10508

Tip 22 - list in eco-directory - http://www.styleweekly.com/Media/MediaManager/Green-2009_1.pdf

Tip 23 - MC events - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/9626

Tip 24 - become eco-leader - http://www.virginia.edu/ien/vnrli/VNRLI_fellows.htm

Tip 25 - affiliate with green - http://www.americanfarm.com/growtopstory12.01.2005d.html

Tip 26 - market green - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/6656

Tip 27 - acquire credibility - http://projectevergreen.com/news/news-releases/2008/09/19/eco-chic-winne...

Tip 28 - dig in the dirt - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/eco-friendly/9779

Tip 29 – create a garden - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/node/6801

Tip 30 – create seasonal-diversity - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/green/9812

Best wishes for the holiday season! Join me in an effort to ‘green life’s garden’ one scoop at a time.

This week, nation-wide, there is an ongoing effort to inspire ‘go green’. Why?

Research conduct by the Martin Agency located in Richmond Virginia reveals ‘green matters’
• 8 of 10 consumers prefer a green product, service or information
• regardless of age, green matters
• consumers are willing to pay more (usually 5 to 10%); and,
• prefer to deal with a company that has an established ‘greening’ reputation.

So, individually, what can you do to ensure ‘go green’? Begin by measuring your environmental impact - eco-footprint, www.conservation.org/ecofootprint, shift to ‘green’ life style choices; and then, I want to encourage you to think eco-chic - landscape green.

Today, as I worked outside mulching leaves and clearing fall debris, I was reminded October/November/December is the optimal time of year to evaluate landscape, create a site plan and install eco-shelter – trees and shrubs.

In previously published blogs, I explained the financial value of landscaping, http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/curb-appeal/9675 as well as eco-efficiency, http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/cooling/9740 .

Presently, I want to encourage you to take your commitment to another level, eco-chic – a landscape that illustrates a waste not, want not naturalist commitment, http://housetrends.com/articles.php/Richmond/VA/14/landscape/4/From-Eco-... .

Join me in an effort to inspire eco-gardens - http://www.buildinggreentv.com/node/6801 . Together, let’s green life’s garden one scoop at a time.

In a prior blog, I reminded you that fall is the optimal season in which to install trees and shrubs. So, I've been digging in the dirt - transplanting new seedlings and installing 'vendor test' plants.

As I worked outside, I noticed the color of my second season blooming Encore Azaleas. Somewhat new to the market, I've tested these plants for a number of years. While Encore Azaleas provide color with their blooms in spring, summer and fall, did you know that they also provide winter color with their foliage?

Autumn Princess' leaves turn a striking deep purple, as do Autumn Amethyst's leaves. Autumn Empress, Autumn Sunset, and Autumn Sundance all don a reddish bronze color in winter, and Autumn Ruby turns purple/brown.

Changing foliage is just another way that these Encore Azalea® varieties celebrate colder temperatures -- and when warmer temperatures return, they return to their previous gorgeous green hue.

If you are like me and enjoy digging in the dirt, you too will like the seasonal affect of these plants. For more information on all 24 varieties of Encore Azalea®, visit www.encoreazalea.com.

Join me in my quest - dig in the dirt and install plants that provide color and interest through out the seasons! Together, let’s create gardens of diversity.

In an article “Market Share, Create Industry Presence,” an example of an event, Virginia Green Industry Council’s VA GoGreen Garden Festival (VGGF), was used to illustrate a branded presence that occurred through communicating an appropriate image sustained by viable products or services. Nevertheless, due to recent activities, my perception of the industry’s progress as a whole is somewhat undermined.

To read more and post comment, link to http://www.todaysgardencenter.com/magazine/?storyid=2549 Together, let's 'greening strategies' and ensure consumer awareness!

I like to dig in the dirt. As the descendent of a long line of gardeners, I recall childhood experiences of helping my parents and grandparents with their kitchen gardens. For, in my family, it is acceptable for a child to have soiled clothes and dirty hands.

Later, after I married and started to garden at my new home, believe it or not, many plants were transferred from my childhood garden. Then, as the space expanded, I solicited roots, clippings and newly separated perennials from friends, family and acquaintances. Still, while my garden definitely illustrated a gardener’s gene, I had no formal training. So, after identifying educational opportunities, I first attended the Virginia Master Garden program, and began a journey into formal training.

Adding to my skill set, I attended landscape design courses taught by hands-on professionals at a local Botanical Garden. Then, to further expand my knowledge, I researched and attended numerous industry workshops and seminars.

Recently, a friend observed, “You’ve turned an avocation into a vocation!”

For a few seconds, I questioned her observation and then, agreed. No longer, is my effort to ‘dig in the dirt’ simply the result of a part-time effort. It has moved into the vocational world. Parallel to my journey into formal training, I've shared landscape/garden knowledge with others.

I've written feature articles and provided columns for garden magazines. Recognized as an “asks the expert” columnist, I taught adult educational seminars on the topic of creating eco-friendly landscapes; and presently, participate in all of these activities plus design landscapes that consider energy efficient and earth-friendly features. Nevertheless, the further I venture into the world of gardening, the more I questioned its impact on the surrounding environment. For, gardening and eco-friendly gardening are not necessarily the same activities.

Recent survey statistics released by the National Garden Bureau identified of the 12 eco-friendly items surveyed only 3 are viewed as somewhat successfully observed by homeowner/backyard gardeners. It appears that as a Nation, we have participated in a “Green Revolution” for more than 50 years but as a whole, continue to fail. So, obviously, it takes more than simply a “love of all things green” to make it work.

On one hand, avocations are a passionate interest but developing it occurs through the encouragement of others. Instead of stumbling through your effort as a passionate participant, let knowledge become your mentor. Educate yourself and then, incorporate what you learn into daily experiences. Remain open to new and different ideas and share them.

The future holds a unique opportunity: the opportunity to not just be the caretaker of a garden space but be a person who cares! A person who sets the Climate, nor 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.

Become known as an eco-expert. Influence environmental safe practices and be one of the people who have positive impact on a survey that measures safe garden practices. Write articles for a civic newsletter or volunteer to speak during a community meeting.

More importantly, influence the next generation of gardeners. Create a space in which it is alright for a child to experience dirty hands and soiled clothes. As a parent or grandparent, plant the seeds that enable another generation of people who turn their avocation into a vocation.

Fall is a great time to dig in the dirt. What are you doing to ensure gardening – digging in the dirt – is eco-friendly?

While as a Nation, we celebrate October as national energy awareness month, did you know that year-around trees provide energy savings?

Research conduct by land-grant university Virginia Tech indicates proper placement of shrubs and trees around your home or office building can reduce utility bills and conserve energy while creating a healthy environment. In fact, this research reveals

• Proper selection and placement of plant material can lower heating and cooling costs by as much as 20 percent.
• During summer months, one large tree can absorb as much heat as several window air conditioners and can lower temperatures by 10 degrees.
• In climates with cold winters, the goal is to block the winter wind with trees and shrubs while capturing the winter sun (solar heat). In warmer climates, the goal is to block the summer sun while channeling in the summer breezes. In temperate climates, both strategies are employed.
• A dense row of evergreens to the north and northwest works effectively for extreme and temperate climates. Deciduous trees and shrubs should be planted to the east and west.
• A semi-circular row of deciduous trees and shrubs planted from southeast to southwest, with a break to the south, funnels in summer breezes.
• There are three ways in which trees and shrubs cool the air: by providing shade from solar radiation, by cutting wind speed and by reducing air temperature through evaporation and transpiration. Trees also absorb heat, thus reducing the need for air conditioning and allowing for less carbon dioxide to be emitted from electric generating facilities.
• Plants absorb pollutants and block noise levels. For instance, a cypress hedge planted 2 ft. thick along the front of a property will reduce street noise by 5 decibels.
• Growth rates and hardiness of plant materials in your geographic region should be factored in. Healthy plants that are able to adapt to your region work the hardest for you.
Virginia Tech’s research further identified that one tree alone annually removes 26 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, equaling 11,000 miles of car emissions. Another study revealed a space that consists of 1 acre of trees has the ability to annually remove 13 tons of particles and gases.

Although there are definitely advantages to creating energy efficient design structures, most landscape gardeners tend to focus on aesthetic, not eco contribution of plants. To learn more about strategies related to creating eco-efficient landscapes, link to 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.... Help turn America's landscape from eco-weak to eco-chic - be aware that trees are nature's eco-savings!