ASCFG Gears Up For Annual Conference
Growers are invited to partake in the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers’ (ASCFG) national conference and trade show, slated for Oct. 1-4 in Raleigh, N.C.
In addition to the trade show, open Oct. 2 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., the annual event also offers a popular floral design competition, the ASCFG Growers’ School, tours of local farms, nurseries and the North Carolina State University floriculture program, as well as several educational sessions. Also, prizes will be awarded to the winning entries for the “Best Farm Photo” and best “New Idea for Cut Flower Production.”
The Growers School, taking place on Monday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., gives attendees the opportunity to spend a day immersed in the fundamentals of cut flower production. Rotating sessions throughout the afternoon, manned by experts, will allow attendees to learn or fine-tune essential skills, such as how to properly mix and use flower preservatives, determine soil chemistry, propagate cuttings and identify common weeds.
On Tuesday, participants will tour the Perry-winkle Farm as well as tour the North Carolina State University’s cut flower trials, postharvest laboratory, research projects, arboretum and postharvest evaluation facility.
On Wednesday morning, participants can enjoy a tour of the Sunrise to Sunset Gardens and Plant Delights Nursery. The remainder of Wednesday afternoon and most of Thursday will be reserved for educational sessions aimed at enlightening and inspiring growers. The wide range of topics covered fall under four categories: “Focus on Management and Marketing,” “Weeds, High Tunnels and Hoophouses,” “Perennials and Field Bulbs for Perpetual Profits” and “Postharvest Options” .
The deadline to reserve a room at North Raleigh Hilton and receive the conference rate of $112 is Aug. 31, 2007. Reservations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information, go to www.ascfg.org
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