Trends and techniques on display at New England GROWS

BOSTON, Mass. -- New England GROWS wrapped up in early December after three days of seminars and hands-on learning, combined with an exhibition showcasing the latest innovations from hundreds of leading industry exhibitors.

Attendance from all industry sectors was strong and overall the event attracted 7,500 green industry professionals. Renowned authors, respected educators, influential environmentalists and successful entrepreneurs were among the many experts at the conference who addressed nearly every aspect of the green industry including sustainable landscape design, pest management, safe equipment operation, natural stone construction, workforce development, proper plant selection, organic turf care, consumer trends, successful marketing and more.

Hundreds of regional and national vendors showed off the latest plants, products and technology for the green industry. Many vendors offered substantial discounts to attendees and the show floor was buzzing with commerce.

Many attendees earned certifications and continuing education credits through classes accredited by the International Society of Arboriculture, the American Society of Landscape Architects, the Association of Professional Landscape Designers, the Northeast Organic Farming Association, and state and regional pesticide licensing boards.

In addition to world-class educational offerings, attendees picked up quick information hits at Sprint Sessions presented by Extension personnel; learned how to work safer and smarter at the new Safety Arena, and challenged themselves with a popular plant ID competition. GROWS' founding partner organizations worked together to build awareness and help ease the labor shortage with their student-centric Future Leaders program, a recently release careers video "Finding Your Place in the Green Industry", and a new Career Center available online.

Click here for a quick recap of GROWS 2016.

The next New England GROWS will be held November 29 - December 2, 2017 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. For the latest information, follow New England GROWS on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest, visit NewEnglandGrows.org, or call (508) 653-3009.