Workshop to focus on plant materials for the green industry
Thursday, July 12, 2018
Industry professionals and end users are invited to learn more about the evolution in management, cultural practices and plant materials in the fourth annual Shackelford Lecture Series.
Slated Aug. 9 from 7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at the Wes Watkins Center on the Oklahoma State University campus in Stillwater, Plant Materials for the Green Industry Professional and End Consumer: The Green Industry’s Evolution in Management, Cultural Practices and Plant Materials, will offer something for industry professionals, Master Gardeners, Linnaeus gardeners and home gardeners.
The $40 registration fee must be postmarked by July 30 and includes lunch. Online registration is available at http://www.hortla.okstate.edu/news-and-events/events/. Click on Plant Materials for the Green Industry Professional and End Consumer. A downloadable brochure also is available on that site. For additional registration information, contact Stephanie Larimer at 405-744-5404 or stephanie.larimer@okstate.edu.
Mike Schnelle, OSU Cooperative Extension floriculture specialist, said this year’s conference features speakers addressing ornamental plant materials, as well as how and why the green industry has evolved over the last few decades.
“We have state specialists and leading green industry professionals who will share their knowledge and expertise,” Schnelle said. “They’ll discuss exceptional herbaceous and woody plant materials and their potential in the green industry, as well as provide information regarding evolution of changes in the practices of greenhouse and garden center owners over the past several decades.”
Other topics on the agenda include being a good steward of greenhouse and nursery runoff while still using pesticides and fertilizers, what not to do when landscaping with native plants, year-round seasonal beauty of ornamental plants, Earth-Kind Gardening® and changes in today’s garden center industry.
“We’re also excited to be able to offer continuing education units for people who qualify,” he said.
The Shackelford Lecture Series was designed to honor Charles and Linda Shackelford, former owners of TLC Garden Center in Oklahoma City, and their many contributions over the years to the Oklahoma greenhouse industry.
“I anticipate those who attend will go home with new tips, strategies and general information that will be beneficial in their horticultural endeavors,” Schnelle said. “Not only will attendees learn something, but this lecture series is a wonderful opportunity to network with others in the horticultural industry.”
For more information about the Shackelford Lecture Series and this workshop, contact Schnelle at 405-744-7361 or email at mike.schnelle@okstate.edu.
Story by Trisha Gedon