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Great Lakes, Great Plants Symposium

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The Great Lakes, Great Plants Symposium is a two-day event for horticulture professionals and enthusiasts alike. A full day of lectures, rare plant auction, and exclusive tours of the natural and cultivated beauty of Northwest Michigan. Programming for 2024 focuses on coastal resiliency, gravel gardens, and intentional design. The event is sponsored by the Northern Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association and hosted by The Botanic Gardens at Historic Barns Park in Traverse City.

Thursday, July 25

9:00am-9:30am     Opening Lecture and Welcome to The Great Lakes, Great Plants

                                 Symposium

9:30am-10:30am    Gravel Gardens for our Changing Climate – Jeff Epping

10:30am-10:45am   Break

10:45am-11:45am    Cultivating Coastal Resilience – Andy Brand

11:45am-12:45pm    Lunch and Explore the Gardens

12:45pm-2:00pm    Hands-on Horticulture Stations throughout The Botanic Garden 

2:00pm-3:00pm     Expanding your Plant Palette – Brian Zimmerman & Speakers

3:00pm-3:15pm      Break

3:15pm-4:15pm       Designing with Intention – Rachel Jawin

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6:30pm-7:30pm     Cocktails and Dinner

7:30pm                    Silent Auction Closes 

7:45pm-8:30pm      Live Auction

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Friday, July 26                                 

8:30am-9:00am     Welcome and Overview

9:00am                    Buses Depart from The Botanic Garden

9:00am-10:30am    Tour of Location #1

10:30am-12:00pm   Tour of Location #2

12:00pm-2:00pm    Lunch and Tour of Location #3

2:00pm-3:15pm       Nursery Tour

3:15pm-4:30pm       Tour of The Botanic Gardens at Historic Barns Park

Early Bird Discount (until June 15th)

$199 Botanic Garden and MNLA Members

$225 Non-Member

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After June 15th

$225 Botanic Garden and MNLA Members

$249 Non-Member

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