Rita Randolph Containers for the Collector: Designing containers since the 1970's, Rita combines flowers and foliage in a unique way, with the emphasis on ‘Foliage FIRST’. From table-top pots to large commercial installations, plants flow seamlessly together. New introductions - as well as old favorites perhaps forgotten by the industry- all come together for captivating combinations. You will be entertained by beautiful photographs of containers from her greenhouses as well as private and botanic gardens she has seen across the country. You are guaranteed to leave this lecture inspired! Rita Randolph is widely known as an enthusiastic speaker. She is a true plant collector, preferring golden, variegated, or other ‘plants of exceptional color’. Containers are Rita’s canvas. Unusual and eye-opening combinations spill over everywhere, often with plants rarely seen before.She is past president of the Tennessee Flower Growers Association, and a member of numerous horticultural societies. An avid photographer, she is also a member of The Garden Writer’s association, and writes for horticultural magazines, including GMPro Magazine. Randolph’s Greenhouses is a 60 year old family business that has become a collector’s destination. Upon arrival you immediately suspect that a Plant Nut is in residence! Her flair for combinations is well known. An excited customer was overheard cajoling a friend to come shop, stating ...”It’s only a four - hour drive!”

Rick Luke Creating the water garden of your dreams: While growing up here in East Lansing from the early age of 19 Rick Luke knew he wanted to create a business for himself. Rick Luke took classes at Lansing Community College in Business and Pre-law, and later at Michigan State University in Turf Grass; during that time Rick also was running a small Lawn Care Business on the side.  After building up an impressive clientele Rick had developed a love for Landscaping.  Twenty years later, with much hard work, and plenty of hands on experience Rick’s small business has grown into what we know today as Luke Landscape Company.  Rick has assembled a one of a kind design team and they now specialize in all types of Hardscapes, Landscapes and water features.  From Koi ponds to running streams with hand picked boulders that are carefully placed to create a signature style, Rick’s work is well known all around the area, some of that work is right here on campus. Over the years many of Michigan States Landscape Architect students have jumped at the chance to work for Luke Landscape to gain true hands on experience. Rick has truly gained his knowledge through unique means, and has established Luke Landscape as one of the top Design and Build Firms in the industry today.