Plants & Design

Contractors will learn about the proper installation, safe performance, and popular trends for outdoor fire pits and fireplaces.

Plant compositions are endless, ranging from small arrangements in containers to large expansive borders.  Strategic approaches in developing plant compositions integrate garden type, functional considerations, structural framework within the group, the overall dimension of the proposed landscape space, and proposed plant types. 

We will examine these factors and explore simple techniques used to build creative plant compositions.

Travel a full year through the landscape as Matthew shares techniques for ensuring successful seasonal plantings. From using different layers in design to finding plants with multiple seasons of interest, this program will have you rethink the way in which seasonal color is utilized in the landscape.

The lecture includes a hands-on design element where attendees will create a design for seasonal interest in a small residential backyard. No tools necessary as trace paper, base maps, and a drafting pen will be provided.

There's nothing more rewarding than expanding your clients' use of their landscape. Whether it's exterior lighting, adding in a fire pit, or installing a new container garden. As an industry we focus heavily on the bonus time that hardscape elements add to the enjoyment and entertainment value of the landscape. What if those same concepts were applied to winter?

Michigan's Award-Winning Project presentations of 2023.

Good naturalistic design should leave one wondering what was there first, the structures or the landscape. The goal is to create spaces that have the same feel as an exceptionally beautiful and peaceful spot that you might discover on a walk in the wilds.

This presentation illuminates what makes that happen and design weaknesses that conflict with that goal.

Common landscape problems need not be solved in common ways! John will address creative methods for noise remediation, stormwater management, creative screening/ masking of problem areas, etc. 

A look at the breadth of container gardening styles and techniques. Different types of containers and their designs are discussed as well as some favorite plants and combinations for container culture.

This discussion will give every member of the team tips to increase their creativity and therefore marketability. It will provide content to make next year’s designs, pots and combinations really engaging.