OSU to host Ornamental Plant Materials Conference

The two-day conference is sponsored by the Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service, OSU’s department of horticulture and landscape architecture and the Oklahoma Botanical Garden and Arboretum. The conference will take place at the Best Western, 600 E. McElroy Rd.

“We’ve got a great conference planned and we’re offering participants the opportunity to take home a lot of valuable information,” said Mike Schnelle, Extension ornamental floriculture specialist. “The informational workshops are geared toward industry specialists such as landscapers, nursery personnel, greenhouse growers and master gardeners, as well as individuals who are gardening hobbyists. You don’t have to be a horticulture professional to attend the conference.”

Early registration is $110 and must be postmarked by Sept. 28. Oklahoma Botanical Garden and Arboretum members, Extension educators and Master Gardeners may register early for $80. Students with a student ID may register early for $60. All registration will be $140 after Sept. 28. Three meals are included in the registration fee. To register for the conference, contact Stephanie Larimer at 405-744-5404, or email at stephanie.larimer@okstate.edu.

Workshops will be taught by a number of industry and academic specialists. Tina Johnson, senior agriculturist at OSU, will be on hand to talk about herbaceous plants. Jim Ord will share information about new or under utilized trees that are available.

Unique plant materials from the Garden House in Enid will be highlighted. Personnel from Powell Gardens will present at the conference, too.

Those who have an interest in conservatories will gain information from Janet Latham, horticulturist for the Myriad Botanical Gardens in Oklahoma City. Michelle Moore, TLC Nursery and Garden Center in Oklahoma City, will share information about Mediterranean gardens. In addition, Dennis Martin, OSU, will be on hand to talk about Oklahoma turfgrasses.

In addition to the informational workshops, conference participants also will take an evening tour of the Oklahoma Gardening Studio Gardens located west of Stillwater.

“I think anyone who attends this conference is sure to gain a lot of valuable information. The conference is offering a wide variety of topics, so there is something for everyone,” Schnelle said.

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Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.
 
Trisha Gedon
Communications Specialist
Agricultural Communications Services
136 Agriculture North
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK  74078
405-744-3625 (phone)
405-744-5739 (fax)
trisha.gedon@okstate.edu