2026 Great Lakes, Great Plants
LOCATION: The Botanic Garden at Historia Barns Park, Traverse City, MI
Join The Botanic Garden for Northern Michigan's premier horticultural event and fundraiser.
Presented by The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park
September 24–26, 2026 | Traverse City, MI
Great Lakes, Great Plants returns this fall with a fresh lineup of lectures, tours, and immersive experiences celebrating horticulture, design, and the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. Designed for professionals and plant lovers alike, this three-day event includes inspiring talks, a rare plant auction, guided garden tours, and exclusive bonus experiences.
This year’s programming focuses on Defining the Modern Midwest Landscape, Treecycling, and The Wildland Garden, offering practical knowledge, innovative ideas, and plenty of inspiration.
The event is proudly sponsored by the Northern Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association and hosted by The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, located in the heart of Traverse City.
REGISTRATION & PRICING
Early Bird (until August 24):
- $199 – Both Days, Members (Botanic Garden or MNLA)
- $225 – Both Days, Non-Members
- $169 – Day 1 Only
- $125 – Dinner & Auction Only
Regular Pricing (after August 24):
- $225 – Both Days, Members (Botanic Garden or MNLA)
- $249 – Both Days, Non-Members
- $199 – Day 1 Only
- $150 – Dinner & Auction Only
Not a Botanic Garden member yet? Learn more here!
WANT TO SPONSOR?
Reserve a VIP Table and enjoy premium perks!
Price: $2,000 for full table
Includes:
- 8 full Great Lakes Great Plants registrations
- All events (minus boat ride) for all 3 days
- A curated trio of plants for each guest
- Recognition in the event program and digital promotions
Sponsor a Student:
- $225 for the full two-day event. If you know the name of the student you are sponsoring, please add that information in the notes section.
To sponsor, select the VIP Table option when purchasing tickets on Eventbrite or call The Botanic Garden at (231) 935-4077.
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SCHEDULE
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 – DAY 1: LECTURES & DINNER
Join us at The Botanic Garden for a full day of expert-led lectures and garden exploration, followed by a celebratory dinner and rare plant auction.
Morning & Afternoon Lectures:
- 9:00 AM – Welcome to Great Lakes Great Plants
- 9:30 AM – Nick McCullough
- 10:45 AM – Erin Presley
- 1:30 PM – Matthew Ross & Brian Zimmerman
- 2:45 PM – Tim Boland
Evening Events:
- 5:30 PM – Silent Auction Opens
- 6:00 PM – Cocktails & Networking
- 6:30 PM – Dinner & Dessert Served
- 7:30 PM – Silent Auction Closes & Live Auction Begins
Silent Auction
As part of the evening's festivities there will be a selection of curated rare, unusual, and stunning plants up for the bidding. Each specimen has a pair, and the second plant will go into the permanent collection at The Botanic Garden. The bidding opens at 5:30 PM and runs until 7:30 PM. Winning bids will be announced at the end of the Live Auction.
Live Auction
You won't want to miss your chance to bid on the coolest and most unusual groupings of plants in Northern Michigan. From rare trees to instant meadows, there are a plethora of plants with fun and entertainment too.
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 – DAY 2: GARDEN & NATURAL AREA TOURS
Hop aboard the tour bus for a day-long exploration of inspiring gardens and landscapes across Northwest Michigan.
- 8:30 AM – Check-in & Overview
- 9:00 AM – Depart from The Botanic Garden
- 9:00–3:00 PM – Tours of four curated locations with lunch included
- 4:00 PM – Return to The Botanic Garden - approx time
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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 - POST-CONFERENCE EXPERIENCES
Optional add-ons to extend your learning and enjoyment.
9:00–11:00 AM – Field Botany Walk with Matthew Ross
Explore the region’s natural landscapes in a guided walk designed for early risers. Limited to 40 participants. Location to be announced. Transportation not provided. $20 - separate registration required. GLGP attendees only.
12:00–2:00 PM – Nursery Open House at Four Season Nursery
Free for registered attendees! Enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, light refreshments, and expert insights from Brian Zimmerman and team. Free - separate registration required. Symposium attendees only.
6:30–9:00 PM – Sail with the Speakers
Set sail on West Grand Traverse Bay for a magical evening on the water with symposium speakers. Enjoy wine, refreshments, and a champagne toast as you cruise beneath the stars. Limited to 8 participants. $200 – separate registration required. GLGP attendees only.
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QUESTIONS?
Call The Botanic Garden at (231) 935-4077 or visit www.thebotanicgarden.org
We can’t wait to welcome you for a vibrant and inspiring few days in the heart of Northern Michigan!