Explore garden possibilities for our region
SM
hosted by
Master Gardener Volunteer Association
of Union County​
January 31, 2026
SM
Join fellow garden enthusiasts, experts and novices alike for a garden design symposium on Saturday January 31st. This event is presented by NC Extension and the Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Association of Union County at the Union County Agricultural and Event Center, 3230 Presson Road, Monroe, NC.
​Grow your knowledge and realize your garden dreams with presentations from celebrated bestselling author and distinguished horticulturist Brie Arthur, ecologist and native plant aficionado Dr. Carrie DeJaco and highly regarded owner of Renfrow Hardware (and Garden Center), David Blackley. The day will also include vendors and exhibitors.​ 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 Brie Arthur, Seeds of Enchantment - The Art of Creating Gardens From Seed
-
Follow up with Dr. Carrie DeJaco, Extending the Pollinator Season in Your Landscape
-
Lunch presentation by David Blackley of Renfrow Hardware, Sensible Gardeners Use ALL Their Senses
-
Close the day with Brie Arthur, Ultimate Plant Combinations
-
Throughout the day:
-
“Ask A Master Gardener” questions about your garden project
-
Visit with invited garden-related exhibitors and vendors
-
Opens Nov 1
​​
​
8:00am Doors Open, Check in, Time with Exhibitors
9:00am Welcome
9:15am Seeds of Enchantment - The Art of Creating Gardens From Seed with Brie Arthur
10:30am Break, Time with Exhibitors
10:45am Extending the Pollinator Season in Your Landscape with Dr. Carrie DeJaco
11:45am Lunch Break, Time with Exhibitors
12:15pm Lunch
12:15pm Sensible Gardeners Use ALL Their Senses with David Blackley
1:15pm Break, Time with Exhibitors
1:30pm Ultimate Plant Combinations with Brie Arthur
2:45pm Wrap Up
3:00pm Stay for Ask A Master Gardener or Tour our Teaching Garden
​
​Schedule
​​
Brie Arthur
Meet Brie and learn more about her presentations
Seeds of Enchantment - The Art of Creating Gardens From Seed
Ultimate Plant Combinations
​
​Dr. Carrie DeJaco
Meet Carrie and learn more about her presentation
Extending the Pollinator Season in Your Landscape
​
David Blackley
Meet David and learn more about his presentation
Sensible Gardeners Use ALL Their Senses
Directions to the Venue