ANNUAL CONFERENCE - Grand Rapids 2026
September 22 - 25, 2026
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Get Ready for the 2026 IPPS Eastern Region Annual Conference!
Registration will go live on July 8th! Stay informed for your chance to register early by checking the official conference website for updates on registration and hotel reservations.
| | Conference Highlight: Educational Program Preview | | |
Our Vice President and Program Chair, Mark Bridgen, has been tirelessly working behind the scenes to curate an educational session that promises to bring invaluable insights and innovative ideas to our annual conference! Here's a preview from Mark on what to expect.
| MOTIVATION FOR INNOVATION | | The International Plant Production Society (IPPS) - Eastern Region will welcome nursery, greenhouse, research, and horticulture professionals from across North America to Grand Rapids, Michigan, this September 22-25 for its annual conference. The event will feature cutting-edge educational sessions, industry tours, networking opportunities, and discussions on the latest advances in plant propagation, breeding, production, and technology. | Wednesday, Sept 23 - FULL-DAY EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS | The IPPS conference opens up this day with a morning session focused on Plant Breeding and New Plant Development. The session will begin with keynote speaker Dr. Tom Ranney, Professor at North Carolina State University, speaking on “Garden Innovations: Breeding Plants for Flair & Fortitude.” He will be followed by presentations from leading researchers and industry innovators with topics that include: | | |
The afternoon will feature keynote speaker Dr. Paul Fisher, Professor at the University of Florida, speaking on “Using Generative Artificial Intelligence for Nursery Growers.” Additional presentations will address:
- Jumping worm management in container production
- Transplant success of container-grown trees
- Environmental factors affecting woody plant propagation
- Supplying landscape plants for major Middle Eastern resort projects
- Expanding use of drone technology in nursery operations
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Throughout Wednesday, attendees can participate in the annual Silent Auction, attend the IPPS Eastern Region Awards Presentation, hear a report from the 2025 IPPS International Tour in the United Kingdom, and preview upcoming IPPS events, including the 2027 Eastern Region Conference in Maryland and the 2027 International Tour.
| | Thursday, Sept 24 - FULL-DAY BUS TOURS | | | | Jeff Kurtz, our dedicated Local Site Chair, has put together a day that promises to be both enlightening and enjoyable. Participants will embark on carefully planned bus tours at Farmhaus Farms and Degrandchamp Farm with the day culminating in a delightful afternoon at Spring Meadow Nursery. The evening will conclude with a dinner reception, providing the ideal setting for networking and reflection. | | Friday, Sept 25 - MORNING EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS | | |
The conference concludes with the morning session dedicated to Herbaceous Perennials and Native Plants. Presentations will cover:
- Advanced practices for finishing perennials
- Propagation media innovations
- Exciting new native plant introductions
- Native plant trialing and propagation experiences
- The role of mycorrhizae in woody cutting production
The final program event will be the popular New Plant Forum, hosted by Rachel Conley of Broken Arrow Nursery, providing attendees with an opportunity to learn about emerging plant selections and future industry trends.
| Full program details will soon be available on the The 2026 IPPS Eastern Region Conference website. The event promises to deliver valuable education, practical production insights, and unmatched opportunities for networking and professional development among the industry's leading growers, propagators, researchers, and suppliers. SEE YOU THERE! | | |
BECOME A SPONSOR FOR THE 2026 IPPSER ANNUAL CONFERENCE!
Showcase your commitment to the horticultural community and gain exceptional visibility by sponsoring the 2026 IPPS Eastern Region Annual Conference.
This premier event offers unique opportunities to connect with industry leaders, decision-makers, and dedicated plant professionals.
Sponsorship opportunities at various levels are available now—secure your spot early for maximum exposure!
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The 2026 IPPS International Tour, hosted by the Eastern Region, is now just two months away! With participants traveling from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Europe, and across the United States, this promises to be an unforgettable opportunity to experience horticulture from a truly global perspective while building lasting professional connections.
All International Tour participants will conclude their journey at the Eastern Region Annual Meeting in Grand Rapids, Michigan, creating a unique opportunity for members to meet colleagues from around the world. Be sure to introduce yourself, share ideas, and make new friends, one of the greatest benefits of IPPS is the chance to connect with passionate plant professionals from both near and far. We look forward to seeing you all in September!
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PLANT PRODUCTION EDUCATIONAL SERIES
Steve Foltz, President of IPPSER, has been working diligently to launch a range of engaging Educational Series opportunities specifically designed for IPPS members. With his innovative vision, he aims to not only enrich the IPPSER learning experience but also develop effective recruiting tools to grow the membership base. Click below to dive into Steve's vision and passion for uplifting the organization.
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WHAT TOPICS ARE YOU INTERSTED IN?
There's a wealth of knowledge waiting to be uncovered. What educational topics related to plant production spark your curiosity and ignite your passion? Click on the link below to share your thoughts.
| | | "I believe anyone can be drawn to plants and horticulture if that seed of interest is nurtured" - Justin Lombardoni | | |
CULTIVATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF GROWERS
Justin Lombardoni, ornamental plant breeder at the Chicago Botanic Garden, shares his observation on the state of horticulture programs offered to students, the implications of such, and relates his personal experience that sparked his interest in plants to what can be applied to help nurture the next generation of nursery and greenhouse industry professionals.
| | MEMBER UPDATES & OPPORTUNITIES | |
STUDENT CONFERENCE SCHOLARSHIP
The IPPS Eastern Region is now offering scholarships for qualifying students to cover registration costs for this years conference that will take place at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids, Michigan. September 22 - 25, 2026. The deadline to apply is August 14th.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Candidate must be enrolled in a horticulture or other plant-related program of study and be an active student at the time of the conference.
- Candidate must fill out the application in its entirety, including a faculty reference.
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Candidate must be a Student Member of the IPPS Eastern Region. Student membership is free.DATES OPPORTUNITIES
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3RD ANNUAL HAPPY HOUR AT CULTIVATE '26
The 3rd Annual IPPS North American Happy Hour, is taking place during Cultivate '26 on Monday, July 13, 2026, at the Big Bar on Two inside the Hyatt Regency Columbus.
This highly anticipated event has quickly become a cornerstone gathering for horticulture professionals across North America. Designed to foster meaningful connections in a relaxed and welcoming setting, the IPPS Happy Hour brings together growers, propagators, researchers, students, and industry leaders for an evening of networking and collaboration. For additional information including sponsorship opportunties, click on the below.
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BRING YOUR TALENT TO THE TABLE
We need YOU to consider joining the IPPS Eastern Region Board of Directors. The Board consists of 10 members (President, First Vice-President, Second Vice-President, Past President and six Directors) and serves as the governing and policy making body of the Region. The International Delegate and Alternate International Delegate are non-voting members of the Board.
The IPPS Eastern Region Board of Directors is responsible for the well-being and future of the organization. The term of service for Directors is three-years. Two new Directors are added to the Board each year as two Directors rotate off the Board. Officers must have previously served as Directors.
Help shape the future of the IPPS Eastern Region: contact Nominations Chair Shelby French for more information: sfrenchdoerun@gmail.com
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JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Spring Meadow
Nursery Assistant Manager - Propagation Production
Nursery Production Intern
McKay Nursery
Plant Propagator
University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences
Assistant/Associate Professor - Plant Propagation
Have an opening? You can submit job openings to our Careers page—completely free!
Whether you're hiring or looking to spread the word, it's easy to participate. Just send a single PDF (under 500 KB) or a link to your job posting, including title, location, description, and contact details. Listings must be submitted to the regional IPPS site you’re registered with and are subject to approval by the IPPS Executive Committee.
Let’s help grow our community—share your opportunities today.
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NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE
Need to reference a previous newsletter or did you miss the last issue? Newsletters are now archived on the IPPS Eastern Region website.
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| THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS | | ANNUAL CONFERENCE SPONSORS | | | | |
