Registration is Now Open for the 2026 Perennial Plant Association National Symposium
February 12, 2026 | 3 min to read
The Perennial Plant Association is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 National Symposium! Join us July 27–30 in East Lansing, Michigan, located in the majestic freshwater region of the Great Lakes. This premier event brings together perennial plant industry professionals for outstanding education, meaningful networking, and fresh inspiration. National Symposium attendees will experience the tastes, sights and sounds of the Lansing, Grand Rapids and Detroit areas, all the while staying on the park-like campus of Michigan State University, recognized for its scenic beauty, mature trees, and the Red Cedar River flowing through the center.
At the heart of the symposium is an exceptional week-long learning experience. Hear from industry leaders through a thoughtfully curated lineup of engaging presentations and panels. Enjoy exclusive tours designed especially for horticulture professionals, including visits to private and public gardens, growers, retailers, and more.
The 2026 National Symposium is more than just a conference – it’s a celebration of the perennial plant community. Monday will kick off with perennial tours that will all conclude with a tour and casual dinner at Walters Gardens in Zeeland, Michigan. Join us for the trade show social on Tuesday where you’ll mingle and forge valuable connections with like-minded professionals, students and other plant enthusiasts. Cap off Wednesday’s tours with a dinner party at the charming Michigan State University Horticulture Gardens.
Throughout the event, you’ll have the chance to engage with industry vendors during the trade show and explore the latest innovations and developments shaping the world of horticulture. Discover new plants during the New to Market Forum and get a glimpse into award winning landscape design projects.
PPA will also recognize those who have made a significant impact to the horticulture industry with the Special Recognition Awards, offer the opportunity to meet the Perennial Plant Foundation scholarship winners, as well as unveiling the 2027 Perennial Plant of the Year®.
Speaker Highlights Include:
• Dan Hinkley – plantsman, author, lecturer, nurseryman and horticultural consultant
• Shannan Gibb-Randall – principal of InSite Design Studio
• Stefano Marinaz – director of Stefano Marinaz Landscape Architects
• Jeff Epping – founder of Epping Design & Consulting, former Director of Horticulture at Olbrich Botanical Gardens
• And a breeder spotlight featuring Dave MacKenzie, Brent Horvath, and Justin Lombardoni
Tour Attractions Include:
• Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
• Oudolf Garden Detroit
• Wholesale growers, including Hortech Inc., Opel Growers, Mast Young Plants, and Raker-Roberta’s Trial Gardens •
Private home gardens, including Susan Martin, Dale Deppe, Chris Hansen, and more
• And, of course, Walters Gardens and the picturesque Horticulture Gardens at Michigan State University!
PPA’s Board of Directors are eagerly anticipating the upcoming National Symposium and are impressed by the Local Planning Committee’s dedicated hard work to offer top notch education and tours to Symposium attendees.
“I’ve had the opportunity to present this year’s symposium to a number of people, and the reaction has been immediate and unmistakable—excitement all around. The moment they see the destination and itinerary, they’re sold. Even before diving into the tour sites and speakers, just knowing it will be held in East Lansing, Michigan says a lot. I encourage you to explore the details—this is truly a must-attend conference.” said Ed Lyon, PPA Board President.
Don’t miss your chance to be with PPA this summer! The 2026 National Symposium promises exceptional education, unmatched networking, and unforgettable memories. The early bird registration deadline is June 16, 2026, and final registration deadline is July 14, 2026.
For more information on the National Symposium and to register, please visit https://perennialplant.org/event/2026ns.
The Perennial Plant Association is a trade association composed of growers, retailers, landscape designers and contractors, educators, and others that are professionally involved in the herbaceous perennial industry. With a mission to connect professionals, provide education and promote perennial plants, the association has served the horticultural industry since 1984. For more information visit www.perennialplant.org.