Sponsoring Organization: Michigan State University Extension
Date: Saturday, March 3, 2018
Start Time: 8:50 a.m.
End Time: 4:00 p.m.
Location : DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave, NW Grand Rapids, MI. 49503
Description of the Event:
Contact: Diane Brady, bradydi1@anr.msu.edu, 616-632-7865
8:50 a.m.
Welcome!
Diane Brady and Rebecca Finneran,
Michigan State University Extension
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DESIGNING THE RESOURCE-RESPONSIBLE GARDEN
Pault Zammit
Director of Horticulture, Toronto Botanic Gardens
What we plant in our gardens or in our containers and how we care for these spaces, large or small, has an impact far beyond the fence line. Paul Zammit oversees one of Canada's most spectacular public gardens and believes gardening is so much more than creating a beautiful view. Learn how making thoughtful plant choices with scintillating plants and combinations, can create spaces that are alive and ever changing. Join Paul for an energetic presentation where he will draw on his passion and 30 plus years of gardening experience to share with you his lessons, tips and tricks for a greener garden.
FINDING GARDEN INSPIRATION WITH SMART PERENNIALS FOR MICHIGAN GARDENS
Barb Balgoyen
Walter's Gardens
Perennial plants and natives captivate and reward gardeners and pollinators with abundant blooms, thrifty growing requirements and rugged nature. Renowned plant breeders and developers search all corners of the world for perennials that fill the diverse niches of our Michigan landscapes. Barb Balgoyen of Walter's Gardens has been helping gardeners select the best plants for 30 years to fill our gardens with exceptional plants that are reliable and beautiful.
CULTIVATING SUCCESS FROM YOUR GARDEN SOILS - MIGHT NOT BE WHAT YOU THINK!
Dr. Dean Baas
Michigan State University Extension Soil Health Team
Soil health is not only on every gardener's mind of late, but is also driving much of the current research done in growing systems today. As one researcher described it, "Soil is the next frontier!" In order to learn how to employ smart gardening practices to enhance microbes, encourage good soil structure and prevent compaction, we sometimes have to take our ques from commercial agriculture. What have we learned from a century of mistakes? What are some simple ways that we can cultivate success in all our gardening endeavors? Learn from MSU Soil Health team member, Dr. Dean Baas through this enlightening soil discussion.
FLOWERS AND FOLIAGE FOR SMART GARDENERS
Greg Michalak
Raker-Roberta's Young Plants and Trial Gardens
Make your summer sizzle with the hottest new annuals that can take the heat and keep their cool! Greg Machalak, Raker-Roberta's Trial Gardens Manager has been evaluating annuals and watching people react to plants for 11 years. Literally, dozens of pink petunias are on the market today—learn which ones came out on the gardener's choice list this summer. Through his trials and observations, Greg will also reveal annuals that are perfect for pollinators—some you may not expect!
Conference Cost: $59.00
Registration deadline: Friday, Feb. 23, 2018 at midnight or when full
Registration at the door is not available.
Payment Options:
Credit Card: Recommended at this secure MSU payment site to expedite your seat reservation.
Check: Payable to Michigan State University and postmarked by Feb. 13, 2018.
Your seat is not reserved until your balance is paid in full.
You will receive a confirmation email once you have registered and your balance is paid in full.
Your registration name badge, which will provide you admittance to the 2018 West Michigan Home and Garden Show, will be mailed to you prior to the conference.
Cancellation Policy: Sorry, no refunds, but attendance substitutions are acceptable. This event will not be cancelled unless the facility closes.
Register at this link
Contact Information
Questions about the Grand Rapids Smart Gardening Conference? Contact Diane Brady at bradydi1@anr.msu.edu 616-632-7865.
Education Credit Hours: 6
