TRAVERSE CITY — The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park will host the 2025 Great Lakes, Great Plants Symposium from Sept. 25–27 in Traverse City, bringing together horticulture professionals, designers and plant enthusiasts from across the Midwest and beyond.
Now held in the fall, this multi-day event will focus on the theme “Gardening in the Midwest, Wild Designs, and Art in the Landscape,” celebrating bold plant combinations, native species and creative design approaches.
The symposium begins Thursday, Sept. 25, with a full day of expert-led lectures at The Botanic Garden. Presentations will include “Art in the Garden” with Adriana Quiñones, “Growing a Midwest Garden” by Ed Lyon, “Stars of the Green Screen” with Brian Zimmerman and Matthew Ross, and “Designing a Wild Garden” by Katrina Quint. The day concludes with cocktails, dinner and a silent and live auction of rare plants, supporting the Garden’s ongoing programming.
On Friday, Sept. 26, attendees will take part in a guided bus tour through private gardens and natural areas in Northwest Michigan.
Saturday, Sept. 27, features optional post-conference experiences, including a morning botany walk with Executive Director Matthew Ross, a nursery open house with Zimmerman at Four Season Nursery, and a small-group sunset cruise with symposium speakers on West Grand Traverse Bay.
“This symposium is about more than plants—it’s about creativity, connection, and the unique character of gardening in the Great Lakes region,” Ross said. “We’re excited to welcome attendees from all over to learn, be inspired, and celebrate the power of plants to shape both landscapes and communities.”
Early bird registration is open through Aug. 25 and includes access to lectures, tours and meals. Discounts are available for members of The Botanic Garden and the Northern Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association. VIP sponsorship tables include event passes, plant gifts and promotional recognition.
More information is available at thebotanicgarden.org or by calling (231) 935-4077.