New England Grows, an educational conference and green industry exposition, released the agenda for this year’s conference, which will be held December 2-4 in Boston.

Featuring new plant introductions, disease management strategies, lean management and eco-friendly landscapes, New England Grows will cover a wide range of topics. Colleagues in the green industry will come together to share insight and advice, and attendees will gain a deeper understanding of cutting-edge science and techniques in design, technology, consumer trends and business best practices, event organizers said.

Conference participants can choose from more than 30 educational sessions over the course of three days, and continuing education credit is available at many sessions.

Educational opportunities will include presentations from the following authors, environmentalists and entrepreneurs:

• Michael Dirr, Ph.D., an expert on woody plants and author of several books, will speak “In Praise of Noble Trees” and on “A Cornucopia of New Flowering Trees & Shrubs: Selection, Use & Culture;”
• Rick Darke will explore how an understanding of biodiversity can be put to practical use in residential gardens and community landscapes in “The Living Landscape: Designing for Beauty & Biodiversity;”
• Kate Kennen will tackle “Phyto Landscapes: Using Plants to Clean Up Polluted Water, Soil & Air,” and share how phytoremediation plantings can be used to enhance environmental conditions on roadsides, in communities and brownfields; and
• Professor John Ball, Ph.D., of South Dakota University will address safety for tree care, landscaping and nursery professionals in “Safety Starts at the Top,” explaining The Haddon Matrix approach to reducing risk.

The Grows exposition is packed with 500 industry suppliers ready to make deals, including special Grows-only offers from select vendors, event organizers said. Green industry professionals can check out the latest solutions, view demos and get hands-on access to tools, plants and technology.

In addition to conference sessions, interactive educational opportunities are available throughout the show on the expo floor. Attendees can pick up quick information hits at 15-minute Sprint Sessions; watch a raised, permeable patio take shape right before their eyes; challenge themselves at the plant ID contest; or try their hand at a chainsaw teardown competition.

Photo: New England Grows