Design Symposium

Explore garden possibilities for our region

hosted by

Master Gardener Volunteer Association

of Union County

January 30, 2027

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We are planning an in-person event. In the event of inclement weather or other situations out of our control, we will move to a virtual platform.

Open Nov 1

Learn More

Join fellow garden enthusiasts, experts and novices alike for a garden design symposium on Saturday January 30, 2027. This event is presented by NC Extension and the Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Association of Union County.

Grow your knowledge and realize your garden dreams with presentations from celebrated plant experts on topics from design, plants for sun, shade and how to integrate trees and shrubs into you landscape. The day will also include vendors and exhibitors, lunch and coffee. This event offers an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge, network with like-minded individuals, and gain inspiration and practical information for your garden projects.

Highlights of the Symposium:

Start the day with Suzanne Wilkerson, Ambiance Garden Design and learn how to "Design it Once, Love it for Life".
Continue the morning with Paula Gross and consider how trees shape and inform your landscape with "Home Among the Trees".
Enjoy lunch and networking with vendors and attendees.
After lunch join Debbie Roos, NCSU Extension, and encounter a Pollinator Paradise in "Plant Natives to Create a Pollinator Paradise".
Close the day and discover plants that work in the shade with Shannon Currey, Izel Native Plants, "Native Perennials for the Shady Side".
Stay and tour our Teaching Garden or Ask a Master Gardener Volunteer your most pressing gardening questions.