Upcoming New England GROWS Conference showcases innovation, practical techniques and emerging trends

New England GROWS, the Northeast’s largest educational conference and green industry exposition, announced the agenda for the next annual GROWS conference, to be held on its new dates in Boston, December 2-4, 2015.

At GROWS, the brightest minds in horticulture, landscape and tree care come together to share their insights and advice with green industry colleagues. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of cutting edge science and techniques in design, technology, consumer trends and business best practices. From new plant introductions and disease management strategies to lean management and eco-friendly landscapes, New England GROWS covers a wide range of topics.

Acclaimed authors, influential environmentalists and successful entrepreneurs are among the speakers at the conference. Educational highlights include:

  • Michael Dirr, Ph.D., an authority on woody plants and the award-winning author of several popular books, will speak “In Praise of Noble Trees” and on “A Cornucopia of New Flowering Trees & Shrubs: Selection, Use & Culture.” Dr. Dirr will autograph his books at the show, as well.
  • In “The Living Landscape: Designing for Beauty & Biodiversity,” Rick Darke will explore how an understanding of biodiversity can be put to practical use in residential gardens and community landscapes.
  • Kate Kennen, RLA, will tackle “Phyto Landscapes: Using Plants to Clean Up Polluted Water, Soil & Air,” and share how phytoremediation plantings can be used to enhance environmental conditions on roadsides, in communities and brownfields.
  • Professor John Ball, Ph.D., of South Dakota University, will address the all-important issue of safety for tree care, landscaping and nursery professionals in “Safety Starts at the Top.” He’ll explain The Haddon Matrix approach to reducing risk.

In all, participants can choose from more than 30 educational sessions over the course of three days. Continuing Education Credit from a gamut of professional organizations is available at many sessions.

The GROWS exposition is packed with 500 of today’s leading industry suppliers, ready to make deals, including special GROWS-only offers from select vendors. Green industry professionals can check out the latest solutions, view demos, and get hands-on access to the tools, plants and technology they need to grow their business.

In addition to in-depth conference sessions, interactive educational opportunities are available throughout the show on the expo floor. Attendees can pick up quick information hits at 15- minute Sprint Sessions; watch a raised, permeable patio take shape right before their eyes; challenge themselves at the plant ID contest; or try their hand at a chainsaw teardown competition.

Registration options start at just $29 for all three days of the conference and early registrants realize the most savings. For the complete agenda or to register, visit NewEnglandGrows.org. The GROWS mobile app is available on iTunes or GooglePlay and is a great way to stay up to date with conference details.

 

About New England GROWS

New England GROWS is an educational partnership between the New England Nursery Association, Massachusetts Arborists Association, Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals and Massachusetts Nursery & Landscape Association. Its co-sponsor network includes 30 allied green industry organizations. Your participation helps New England GROWS support the green industry through annual grants to the region’s Cooperative Extension Systems, the FFA Organization, local horticultural schools, and more.

New England GROWS takes place on December 2-4, 2015, at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. For the latest information, follow New England GROWS on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest, visit www.NewEnglandGrows.org, or call (508) 653-3009.