Program

What is an Invasive Plant? Let’s get reacquainted with definitions of invasive species from where it all started.
Amy Frankmann, Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association and Invasive Species Advisory Committee of the National Invasive Species Council

What makes a plant invasive? The focus is on what the thoughtful gardener needs to know about plant characteristics and the influence of the environment on plant behavior. It will also touch on Michigan Invasive Plant Council assessment criteria and give examples how this criteria is used to determine whether a plant should be classified as invasive.
Bob Schutzki, Michigan State University Doug Pearsall, The Nature Conservancy

Understanding the impacts of invasive plants and exploring ways to control their spread. Invasive plants have a negative impact on Michigan’s natural environment. Examples of garden escapees that have impacted our Michigan natural areas and methods of control will be discussed.
Doug Pearsall, The Nature Conservancy Brian Majka, JFNEW, Environmental and Natural Resource Consultants    

Thoughtful Gardening and Responsible Plant Use – Think Environmentally…Plant Responsibly. We will introduce the concept of Thoughtful Gardening and Responsible Plant Use and outline guiding principles for the Thoughtful Gardener to use in plant selection, landscape design and landscape management. We will also touch on how to incorporate our knowledge of invasive plant behavior into gardening practice.
Bob Schutzki, Michigan State University

Responsible Plant Use – Think Environmentally…Plant Responsibly. Celebrate plant
diversity and the tremendous opportunities that we have to enhance our landscapes environmentally responsible plant use. We will explore the world of plant with the experts and plant lovers. 

Herbaceous perennials. Perennials offer an endless array of sizes, forms, colors, and
textures. We will explore the world of perennials; discuss examples of plants that could be considered invasive; and present examples of environmentally responsible plant selection and use.
Laurel Christensen, Northfield Farms Perennial Nursery

Shrubs, ground covers, etc. Shrubs, grounds covers, vines and other plants contribute to the overall aesthetic and environmental quality of our homes and communities. We will discuss examples of plants that could be considered invasive and present examples of environmentally responsible plant selection and use.
Dave MacKenzie, Chris Howe, Hortech

Thoughtful Gardening, Responsible Plant Use and Invasive Plants. The objective of this session is to serve as a question and answer period and to promote open discussion between a panel of speakers and the audience.

Presented by:
Michigan State University Extension Oakland County
Southeast Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association
The Nature Conservancy
Michigan Invasive Plant Council