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2017 Plants of Distinction

Sponsoring Organization: MSU Extension

Date: February 21, 2017

Start Time: 8:30 AM

End Time: 4:00 PM

Location : Sheraton Detroit Novi Hotel, 21111 Haggerty Rd, Novi, MI, 48375

Description of the Event: Contact: For more information contact ANR Event Services at 517-353-3175 or events@anr.msu.edu
Link

New plants are the life-blood of the landscape and gardening economy. Plant research and global exploration influence the number and types of plants available. However, we all know that "new" is not always "best" for our landscapes. With consumers turning their attention to sustainability and green practices, the question arises, "How much maintenance do these plants require?" MSU Extension has developed a portfolio of renowned plant experts to present this annual seminar. Speakers will enrich your knowledge of widely sought-after plant material while remembering the foundational message of "right plant, right place" to create beautiful and sustainble Michigan landscapes.

Creating the Three Dimensional Landscape
Andrew Bunting, Director of Plant Collections, Chicago Botanic Gardens, Glencoe, IL
Join noted horticulturist and garden designer, Dan Benarcik, as he shares an aesthetic design approach to everyday garden spaces that draw inspiration from the places and communities where they will be utilized. Whether in an expansive public landscape, park or small niche in a private garden, plants are the backbone of successful design. Drawing upon his cumulative experiences from Chanticleer and other public gardens, Benarcik is sure to inspire and refresh your creativity and imagination!

Bellvidere: Evolution of a Plant Geek's Garden
Andrew Bunting, Director of Plant Collections, Chicago Botanic Gardens, Glencoe, IL
Ornamental shrubs not only offer color and texture in the landscape but when care is given to combining their attractive qualities with low maintenance traits, these beauties can be labeled as "Sensational Shrubbery"! Dwyer's expansive horticulture expertise will get you looking beyond the ever-present, mundane selection of shrubs. You will uncover treasures that will thrive in a wide range of conditions including sun, shade, tough soils and many other challenges. Specific cultural and maintenance information for these plants will be complimented by his exquisite examples of use in the landscape.

Dwarf Conifers and Unusual Conifers for the Midwest Garden
Paul Pfeifer, Managing Director, MSU Hidden Lake Gardens, Tipton, MI
Seasonal plants offering a wide range of both flower and foliage coloration make them indispensable in our gardens. With such a wide range of selections available, it's tough to keep up with some of the newer plants that have proven performance combined with extended impact. Dwyer's exploration of some of the most stunning introductions and combos for all garden situations will definitely influence your plant-purchasing decisions!

Creating Color Spots in the Landscape
Steve Foltz, Director of Horticulture, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Cincinnati, OH
Renowned plant breeders and developers search all corners of the world for exponentially better 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.

Gotta' Haves for the Garden
Steve Foltz, Director of Horticulture, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardnes, Cincinnati, OH
Renowned plant breeders and developers search all corners of the world for exponentially better 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.

Cost: $80 per participant
(Includes lunch, refreshments, handouts)

Extension Master Gardeners: This program qualifies for 6 education credits.
Certified Green Industry Professionals: This program qualifies for 6 credits.

Cancellation Policy: No refunds within 7 days of the event otherwise a 90 percent refund applies. Substitutions are allowed and encouraged. This event will not be cancelled due to inclement weather unless the facility closes.

Special Needs: Please contact ANR Events at events@anr.msu.edu or 517-353-3175 at least 2 weeks prior to the event if you have special needs.

Registration link

Education Credit Hours: 6

Website Link for Event

Earlier Event: February 15
Michigan Invasive Species
Later Event: February 24
Central Florida Garden Tour