
Down to Earth is a great opportunity to recognize, empower and thank your teams by giving them access for networking, professional development and fun.
Join more than 500 professionals for a day of education, recertification, networking, and industry camaraderie. Representing every segment of the green industry—from garden centers and nurseries to landscape firms, greenhouse growers, designers, and arborists—attendees enjoy a fun, relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to reconnect after the spring frenzy.
Our featured keynote speaker, Michael A. Dirr, is the author of seven books, including Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture and Propagation and Uses, a widely used and best-selling reference text.
A Mercer scholar, Dirr is considered one of the green industry’s most celebrated plant experts. A professor of horticulture at the University of Georgia, his teaching, lectures, seminars, garden study tours and plant introduction programs have contributed to industry awareness.
The framework for the career path of Michael A. Dirr was established at an early age. Vegetable gardening with his dad, running a small roadside stand with sisters, maintaining gardens and lawns, working in a local nursery “sowed” the seeds for the Horticulture career. Mike had this insatiable desire to learn every tree and shrub and the only possible way to cure the “itch” was education.
Bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Ohio State University, the Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts primed the pump for the academic journey to follow. In 1972, he accepted the teaching/research, woody plant position at the University of Illinois, where he wrote the first Manual of Woody Landscape Plants. Knowing what he did not know, Mike, Bonnie and three small children migrated to Boston and the Arnold Arboretum, Harvard University, for a sabbatical year.
In 1979, he accepted Director’s position, University of Georgia Botanical Garden, securing funding for the Alice Hand Callaway Conservatory and Visitors center. In 1981, he transferred to a teaching/research position in Horticulture, retiring in 2007.
Mike envisioned a future in breeding/developing/promoting new ornamental plants and worked symbiotically with the Georgia nursery industry to advance the program. The discovery of the remontant (reblooming) Hydrangea macrophylla in Minnesota changed the hydrangea market forever. Dirr’s introductions, marketed under the Endless Summer® brands, sold 50 million. Mike produced 30 plant patents during the UGA tenure: a combined total of ~86 with private companies.
“As a plant breeder your imagination often runs ahead of reality. If a breeder ever ceases to believe in the future, then it’s game over.” He currently owns and operates with two partners, Premier Introductions, Inc., Watkinsville, GA.


Elizabeth Barnes Elizabeth Barnes is the Forest Pest Outreach Coordinator with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and previously worked as the Exotic Forest Pest Educator at Purdue University. She studied biology as an undergraduate at Mount Holyoke College and received her Doctorate in plant-insect interactions from the University of Denver where she studied tent caterpillars and fall webworms.
Mandy Bayer has a BS in landscape contracting from Penn State, a masters in Crop Sciences from the University of Illinois and PhD in horticulture from the University of Georgia. Before returning to grad school she worked as a landscape designer. She specializes in landscape plants and teaches courses in plant identification and plant propagation.
Blair Busenbark received his BS in Plant Science from Utah State University, and an MS in Horticulture and MBA from the University of Maryland. In his current position, Blair combines his education and experience to help greenhouse and nursery growers, landscapers and garden centers realize the fantastic potential of biorational products and mycorrhizal use.
Jim Connolly is the Garden Center Manager at Weston Nurseries in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. He has worked in the industry for over 40 years and has been involved with all aspects of retail and wholesale operations. Connolly is also a past president of the Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association and has given a lot of his time to helping industry groups over the years. He is known for setting high standards for customer service and quality control of operations.
From humble beginnings gardening with his father to earning advanced degrees, Michael A. Dirr’s passion for horticulture blossomed into a transformative career. His groundbreaking work laid the foundation for revolutionary advancements in ornamental plant breeding. Notably, his discovery of the reblooming Hydrangea macrophylla forever changed the hydrangea market, leading to the flourishing Endless Summer brand. With over 30 plant patents to his name, Dirr’s innovative spirit continues to inspire, as he collaborates with partners at Premier Introductions, Inc., nurturing a future rich in botanical possibilities.
Charlie Pisano has spent 35 years in the world of Turfgrass working with Barenbrug USA, Jacklin Seed and Lebanon Turf and Horticulture. During that time, he developed an expert understanding of cool season grasses (Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Fine and Tall Fescues) and how different blends perform across New England varied Soils and climates and serves as a Territory Manager for Barenbrug USA.
Jennifer Forman Orth is an Environmental Biologist for the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, where she works on a number of botanical and entomological issues, including insect pests, invasive plants, plant resources for pollinators, and mosquito control. Jennifer completed her Ph.D. at UMass Boston, where she studied the odd breeding system of Japanese knotweed. She also has a master’s degree from Boston University’s Center for Energy and Environmental Studies.
Chris Kennedy is a Massachusetts Certified Horticulturist (MCH) and the third generation owner of Kennedy’s Country Gardens in Scituate. Chris earned his degree in landscape contracting at Penn State University and is a practicing landscape designer. He is also an MNLA past-president.
Jen Kettell, BCMA is a consulting arborist serving the New England area (and occasionally beyond!). As the owner of Radiant Leaf Consulting, she shares her passion for horticulture through the training she provides to both homeowners and green industry professionals. She started landscaping as a teen, continuing to farming, greenhouse production, and finally the Arnold Arboretum before she began building Radiant Leaf Consulting. Today, Radiant Leaf is celebrating over ten years as a small local business.
Laurie Manning is a Pesticide Inspector II for the last 21 years for Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. Laurie is also the Worker Protection Standard Coordinator for Massachusetts.
Award-winning container garden designer Deborah Trickett has worked in the gardening industry for over 30 years, starting with her first job in a greenhouse at age 13 until the present as the owner of The Captured Garden. Deborah is a frequent lecturer, speaking at the New England Spring Flower Show, The Connecticut Flower Show, the Newport Flower Show, the Northwest Flower and Garden Show, as well as The Philadelphia International Flower Show. She has also shared her passion for perennials at the Perennial Plant Association Annual Symposium. She was a featured speaker at the Grand Garden Show on Mackinac Island. She has taught classes and workshops at the Arnold Arboretum in Boston. Her work has been featured in The Boston Globe, The American Gardener, Garden Gate and New England Home magazines as well as on the TV show New England Dream Home.
Spotted Lanternfly: Impact, Current Distribution, and Management Options • Location: Barn • Elizabeth Barnes, Ph.D., Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources • Spotted lanternfly is a highly visible invasive pest that feeds on over 100 plant species. They feed in large numbers on everything from garden plants to street trees, making them a major nuisance pest in yards, parks, and outdoor venues, in addition to killing grapes, black walnut saplings, and Ailanthus saplings. This presentation will cover the issues they cause,their current distribution, and an overview of management options. Pesticide credit requested.
Beyond the “Builders’ Special” • Location: Tent A • Jen Kettell, BCMA, MCH, Radiant Leaf Consulting • No judgment here! Jen Kettell got her start in the late ’80s planting the classic lineup—rhododendrons, yews, and forsythia—around new home foundations. Fast forward to today, and she shares how her approach has evolved. Learn how to rethink those legacy plantings, explore a refined palette of appropriately sized woody species, and transform foundation beds into dynamic, lasting landscapes that move beyond the old “builder’s special.”
Kickoff with Savage Farms Welcome • Location: Tent A • Jay Savage, President, Savage Farms Inc.
Hydrangeas Then and Now: From Garden Staples to Genetic Game Changers • Location: Tent A • Mike Dirr, author and professor of horticulture at the University of Georgia • Since their 18th-century introduction to the West, hydrangeas have journeyed from temperamental French classics like ‘Mme. Emile Mouillere’ to the revolutionary “reblooming” breakthroughs of the 2004 Endless Summer® series. This session explores how decades of breeding have “shuffled the genetic deck,” resulting in once-impossible traits: pink H. arborescens, ultra-hardy H. serrata buds, and the vivid merlot hues of modern H. paniculata. Join us to explore how these genetic game changers are redefining the limits of the modern landscape.
Harness the Power of Mycorrhizae in Production and Landscape • Location: Barn • Blair Busenbark, MS, MBA, Mycorrhizal Applications • Blair Busenbark breaks down the science of mycorrhizae and how this time-tested natural partnership can strengthen modern greenhouse, nursery, and landscape practices. From improving water and nutrient efficiency in production to reducing transplant shock and boosting plant resilience in the field, mycorrhizae offer practical benefits across the green industry. Whether you’re growing, installing, or maintaining, this session highlights how working with nature—just like the industry’s roots—can improve plant performance, lower costs, and increase customer satisfaction.
5th Annual Container Garden Competition • Location: Tent B • Deborah Trickett, The Captured Garden • Join MNLA for the fifth annual competition and education! Contestants will be challenged to create a container garden using provided materials. Deborah will highlight container gardening trends and pick the brains of contestants during the competition.
What’s New in Solution Central • Location: Tent A • Chris Kennedy, MCH, Kennedy’s Country Gardens and Jim Connolly, MCH, Weston Nurseries • Take a step back in time—and forward in your business! Solution Central exhibitors are bringing the best of the green industry from the ‘60s to today, showcasing tools, services, and products designed to help you succeed. From retro classics to modern must-haves, discover what’s new, improved, and ready for what’s next.
Sustainability and Turfgrass Selection & Sod Cutting DEMO • Location: Barn • Charlie Pisano, Barenbrug USA • Sometimes the smartest solutions start with the seed. This session explores how choosing the right turfgrass varieties can naturally reduce water, fertilizer, and maintenance needs. From improved genetics to enhanced seed technologies, learn how thoughtful selection leads to healthier turf, lower inputs, and long-term performance—proving that sustainable results often come from getting the fundamentals right.
A Growing Problem: Potential Invasiveness of Ornamental Plants • Location: Tent A • Jennifer Forman Orth, Ph.D., Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources • Are there potentially invasive plants lurking in local nurseries and retail plant stores? Take a peek into some of the research going on in Massachusetts and nearby states to discover some of the species that are not currently prohibited in Massachusetts, but could be in the future. Learn what goes into the management of some of these species that are causing problems in natural areas, both in and outside of our state, and the potential for climate change to alter which invasive plants can thrive here.
Elegant Plants for Fine Garden Designs • Location: Barn • Mandy Bayer, PhD, UMass Amherst Extension • Great gardens have always balanced structure and plant selection to create lasting beauty. This session explores a curated palette of elegant plants that bring texture, layering, and depth to the landscape. Learn how thoughtful plant choices can elevate designs, creating refined, dynamic spaces rooted in timeless garden traditions.
Restoration after Malpruning • Location: Tent A • Jen Kettell, BCMA, MCH, Radiant Leaf Consulting • Some landscapes stand out—for all the wrong reasons. From stub cuts to “lollipopped” shrubs, many of us inherit plants that need corrective care. Jen Kettell walks through how to recognize the signs of improper pruning and apply thoughtful, time-tested techniques to restore health and structure. Learn how to set realistic timelines, communicate expectations with clients, and guide trees and shrubs back to a more natural, balanced form—making landscapes eye-catching for the right reasons.
Pesticide Laws, Regulations & More • Location: Barn • Laurie Manning, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Pesticide Inspector II • The session will cover current State and Federal regulations for greenhouses, lawn care, farmers and others that apply pesticides. Pesticide credit requested.
Sponsored by the MCH Board • Test your plant knowledge skills with the Plant I.D. Challenge and ask the experts about tips and tricks they use for plant identification. Thinking of becoming an MCH? This is a great preview of what you can expect at the upcoming MCH exam on August 5.
Trevor Elliott, Barenbrug USA • Sometimes the smartest solutions start with the seed. This session explores how choosing the right turfgrass varieties can naturally reduce water, fertilizer, and maintenance needs. From improved genetics to enhanced seed technologies, learn how thoughtful selection leads to healthier turf, lower inputs, and long-term performance —proving that sustainable results often come from getting the fundamentals right.
Discover how drone technology is transforming landscape and agricultural operations. From equipment and support to high resolution mapping and aerial data insights, NexGen Drone provides the tools to make smarter decisions and improve efficiency. Watch a live simulated fertilizer application and see firsthand how precision drone technology delivers superior coverage, accuracy, and productivity.
Paperback versions of The Manual of Woody Landscape Plants and The Hydrangea Book can be purchased online (via the form at the bottom of this page) on or before Tuesday, June 30, 2026. Please note, there will ONLY be a limited supply on hand the day of the event at list price and only copies purchased for the event can be signed by Michael.
The Manual of Woody Landscape Plants (paperback): $74.80
The Hydrangea Book (paperback): $39.95

Join the MNLA Board of Directors, MNLA members, DTE26 vendors and sponsors, and our Super Fun Committee for a casual pre-conference gathering at Berkshire Brewing Co., Inc. on Wednesday, July 22, the evening before the DTE Summer Conference & Trade Show.
Whether you're arriving early, exhibiting at the trade show, or simply looking to connect with fellow green industry professionals before the conference begins, you're invited to join us.
Where: Berkshire Brewing Co., Inc. | 12 Railroad Street | South Deerfield, MA
When: Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
Why: Great pizza, cold beer, and even better company before the big day.
No agenda. No presentations. Just a relaxed opportunity to catch up with old friends, meet new faces, and kick off the conference one day early.
This complimentary event is open to all MNLA members and employees, DTE attendees, vendors, and sponsors.
We hope you'll join us!
MNLA members always get the best rate in addition to other member only benefits! Want to learn more? Click here to see which membership option is ideal for your business and join before registering for this event to SAVE $$$!
MNLA members
$75/person by June 30
$115/person after June 30 and for walk-ins
VNLA members
$75/person by June 30
$115/person after June 30 and for walk-ins
MCH (non-member)
$85/person by June 30
$125/person after June 30 and for walk-ins
Non-member
$95/person by June 30
$135/person after June 30 and for walk-ins
Full time students & children (16 & under)
$35/person
Battle of the Container Garden Designers
$40/person
Please note, all competitors must also be registered for the summer conference.
Books available for purchase when registering online
The Manual of Woody Landscape Plants (paperback) by Michael Dirr: $74.80
The Hydrangea Book (paperback) by Michael Dirr: $39.95
Pre-registration is recommended on or before June 30, 2026 as there are only 40 spots available.
Participation in the competition is only $40 per entry (one entry per person). Participants need to be registered for the full Down to Earth Summer Conference & Trade Show program. Winners will be announced on-site at 3:00pm immediately following Keynote Speaker Michael Dirr.
People's Choice Award
1st prize: $300
2nd prize: $200
3rd prize: $100
4th prize: $50
Another chance to win! Those contestants not placing 1 thru 4 will have a chance to WIN back their registration in a random raffle with two names being drawn to win $40.00 each!
Rules & Regulations
Pricing
$40/person
Please note, all competitors must also be registered for the summer conference.
Charter Oak Landscape & Nursery Sales
Connecticut Mulch Distributors, Inc.
Fourth Generation Nursery, Inc.
Griffin Greenhouse Supplies, Inc.
Ideal Concrete Block Co., Inc.
J.P. Bartlett's Wholesale Greenhouse
Mary May Binney Wakefield Arboretum
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources
New England Nursery Sales, Inc.
Vermont Nursery & Landscape Association
New vendors will be added as they register.
Interested in showcasing your products and services? Click the Vendor Options block to learn more and scroll down to the bottom of this page to register online and reserve your booth space today!
Save $100 per booth when you register on or before June 30, 2026!
MNLA Member: $600 for standard 10x10 indoor or outdoor booth (add $150 for a 10x20 outdoor booth)
Non-member: $850 for standard 10x10 indoor or outdoor booth (add $150 for a 10x20 outdoor booth)
Setup Schedule
Wednesday, July 22, 2026 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Thursday, July 23, 2026 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM
Show Schedule
Thursday, July 23, 2026
7:00 AM – Registration Opens
8:00 AM – 3:00 PM – Trade Show Hours
Please Note: Exhibitors are asked to keep their booths fully staffed and intact until 3:00 PM. Our keynote speaker, Mike Dirr, will be presenting as the final session of the day, and we respectfully ask that exhibitors remain on the field until the conclusion of his presentation. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
Location & Directions
Savage Farms 128 Lower Road Deerfield, MA
Please follow MNLA event signs upon arrival.
This Year's Theme: "Throwback Green Industry"
We are celebrating the decades of innovation that have shaped our industry! We encourage exhibitors to embrace the theme by:
At 10:00 AM, MNLA Past Presidents Jim Connolly and Chris Kennedy will host "What's New in Solution Central," highlighting exhibitor products, services, and innovations.
If you have a special promotion, new product, or featured service you would like highlighted, please contact:
Booth Information
Each booth includes one 6’ table and two chairs
Booth sizes:
Indoor tent booths: 10' x 10'
Outdoor booths: 10' x 10' or 10' x 20'
Outdoor exhibitors: Please bring a 10' x 10' pop-up tent for your personal use. Outdoor spaces are in full sun.
Booth Assignments
Final booth assignments will be made by MNLA and provided during setup.
Additional Booth Representatives
Need to register additional booth staff?
Additional representatives may register online at www.mnla.com. Walk-in registrations are always welcome.
Solicitation Policy
We kindly ask all attendees to respect the commitment and support of our exhibitors. If you observe anyone soliciting business at the event without an exhibitor booth, please notify MNLA staff at the registration tent.
Setup Recommendations & Pre-Party
Exhibitors with power equipment or large displays are strongly encouraged to set up on Wednesday, July 22.
Volunteer assistance will be available during Wednesday setup hours, and exhibitors are invited to join us afterward for networking and refreshments at Berkshire Brewing Company. Click here to RSVP.
For exhibitors setting up on Thursday morning:
Gates open at 6:30 AM.
Vehicles will be permitted into the exhibit area for unloading.
Please bring a dolly or hand truck to assist with moving materials.
All booths must be fully set up and ready for attendees by 7:30 AM on July 23rd.
Questions?
Please contact Rena Sumner at 413-369-4731.
We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you at the Down to Earth 2026!
Value added sponsorships offer a powerful way to showcase your support of the green industry while gaining meaningful visibility throughout the event. Each opportunity is designed to place your brand in high-traffic areas, ensuring strong attendee engagement and recognition. We invite you to take advantage of these premium sponsorship options (many that include booth space) and make a lasting impression!
All sponsorships include branded recognition on-site, in Pro Grow News, email marketing, and the MNLA website. On-site visibility is enhanced with prominent 24" x 36" A-frame signage. Early commitment is strongly encouraged to maximize full marketing exposure.
Host Sponsor – $3,000 (Exclusive)
A premier, exclusive partnership delivering maximum visibility and engagement.
Supporting Host – $1,000 (Local to Host – Non-Competing)
A strong supporting role aligned with the host, offering meaningful presence and engagement.
Decade Sponsor – $1,500 (7 Available Vendor Stations)
Celebrate innovation across eras with a themed, interactive experience.
Container Garden Sponsor – $1,000 (8 Available)
Aligning your brand with a high-energy, hands-on competition experience.
Includes the donation of plant material, pots or soil for the competition. You will be featured during the container garden competition.
Added Value Sponsorships? These added value sponsorships offer a powerful way to showcase your support of the green industry while gaining meaningful visibility throughout the event. Each opportunity is designed to place your brand in high-traffic areas, ensuring strong attendee engagement and recognition. We invite you to take advantage of these premium sponsorship options and make a lasting impression!
Educational Sponsor – $500
Position your brand at the center of learning and professional development. As an Educational Sponsor, your company will be prominently recognized within each education area, aligning your name with knowledge-sharing and industry advancement. Recognition includes 24" x 36" A-frame signage displayed at each education area.
Lunch Sponsor – $500
Gain prime visibility during one of the most highly attended and anticipated times of the event. As a Lunch Sponsor, your brand will be front and center while attendees gather, network, and recharge. Recognition includes 24" x 36" A-frame signage displayed in the dining area.
Beer Garden Sponsor – $500
Connect with attendees in a relaxed, social setting designed for networking and conversation. The Beer Garden offers a vibrant atmosphere where your brand can stand out and leave a lasting impression. Recognition includes 24" x 36" A-frame signage displayed in the beer garden.
MCH Plant I.D. Sponsor – $500
Associate your brand with one of the event’s most interactive and educational attractions. The Plant Identification Tent draws engaged attendees eager to test and expand their knowledge, making it an ideal place for meaningful exposure. Recognition includes 24" x 36" A-frame signage displayed at the Plant I.D. Tent.
Decades of Fun – $500
Bring energy and nostalgia to the event by sponsoring the interactive game area. This high-traffic space invites attendees to relax, connect, and engage through decade-inspired fun—positioning your brand at the center of the experience. Recognition includes 24" x 36" A-frame signage displayed at the Plant I.D. Tent.
The block code for your event group is B289MANURSEY.
Red Roof PLUS+ South Deerfield–Amherst
9 Greenfield Rd, Deerfield, MA, 01373
Room Type: Deluxe 2 Queen Beds Smoke Free
07/22/26 - 07/24/26 – $122.40 plus tax, per room (per night)
Room Type: Superior King Smoke Free
07/22/26 - 07/24/26 – $125.80 plus tax, per room (per night)
These rates are based on 2 adults. For a 3rd or 4th adult in the room, there will be an up-charge of $5.00 plus tax per person
Call: The Red Roof PLUS+ South Deerfield - Amherst(RRI289) directly at 413-665-7161 or our Groups Department at 1-800-874-9000; we are open Monday- Friday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM EST.
Deadline: June 22, 2026 to reserve a room out of your block.
Register on or before June 30 and SAVE $40/attendee and $100/vendor booth!
Please note: All registrations are transferable within a company; they are however non-refundable. This is a rain, snow, sunshine event. Unless we experience a state of emergency the event will go on!

Plant Something MA is a project of MNLA which includes professional environmental horticulturists—people who grow, care for, design and install plantings and landscapes in your community.

Growing Wild helps reverse the loss of biological diversity, foster and protect endangered species and add to the natural beauty of our Commonwealth—right in your own backyard.
MNLA provides access to green industry speakers on the cutting-edge and up-to-date information. Our dynamic community is made up of folks from all walks of life. Colleagues share advice and insights. Passion for the betterment of our community drives member participation in MNLA. Individual contribution is valued. Get involved! Join a committee or volunteer at an event. Make our industry—and your business—better!