There is a pressing need for more inspiring and ecologically rich planting in our urban and rural landscapes. Constraints such as tight budgets, environmental extremes, and limited familiarity with diverse planting systems among clients and crews present significant challenges. Representing Phyto Studio, Claudia will delve into the scientific models and techniques to surmount these obstacles. Join us as she shares insights on enriching, even the most challenging, spaces with evocative planting, offering ecologically rich, appealing, resilient, and maintainable solutions. Level: Intermediate to Advanced

It can sometimes take a small tree to solve a big landscape problem. Explore the toughest understory, ornamental, and native trees that can adapt to challenging growing conditions and still provide beauty and ecological function to any garden or landscape. Arborist Chris Roddick will share his over 30 years of experience planting, growing, and caring for trees from compacted contaminated urban soils to rural development sites with stripped-away topsoil. We’ll look at different tree species that can help build back soil health or remediate drainage problems, as well as trees that best provide food and habitat for wildlife while adding beauty to an assortment of garden environments. Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Climate change impacts both heritage and newly planted tree species. Kristina Bezanson, Master Arborist and professor at UMass Stockbridge, will discuss specialized arboriculture practices, tree selection, and analyses that will help to prevent, protect, or extend the life of our valuable trees. Foresters, arborists, landscapers, or land stewards, will benefit from this vital discussion of how we consider the evolving effects of climate change. Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Prospective, new and experienced greenhouse growers alike will enjoy this discussion about specific crop considerations, including growing methods, materials and technologies for the best results. Flower farmers, native plant growers, and retail nursery growers will hear which greenhouse systems have shown to be more effective and appropriate for certain growing operations and materials, such as soil media, in-ground, bench systems, flooding benches, overhead irrigation, and more. Get ready for an active discussion, and bring your questions! Class Level: Intermediate to Advanced