2026 Planted Earth Winter Conference
Join us at the 2026 Planted Earth Winter Conference “Landscaping 2.0: Rooted in Innovation” on January 23, 2026 at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, MD.
This annual event brings together landscape professionals, designers, horticulturists, and industry partners for a full day of forward-thinking education and connection. Explore the latest tech trends shaping the green industry through a dynamic lineup of speakers and panel discussions.
Speakers:
Kirk Floyd–Kdrone Services: An exploration of how drone technology is transforming modern horticulture—from precision fertilization and targeted plant health care to high-accuracy pre-mapping that improves construction planning and protects the landscape.
Tony Kostreski- Vectorworks: Lead Product Specialist, PLA, ASLA, APLD: AI Use in Landscape Design. Attendees will learn practical ways AI visualizer can support creativity, accuracy, and collaboration in modern landscape architecture.
Eric Gilbey– Vectorworks: Senior Product Marketing Manager, PLA ASLA APLD: Advantages of Design Technology in Implementing Sustainable Landscapes. Landscape design professionals are likely looking for new ways to integrate sustainable objectives into their site design workflow. These objectives can stem from a conscientious client, a jurisdictional mandate, or a desire to create a positive environmental impact beyond each project site. Fortunately, technology is more capable than ever to support your sustainability objectives. This presentation will highlight the tools offered by general and landscape specific CAD programs and how designers and design/build professionals can make use of these tools, such as erosion control, runoff calculations, cut and fill calculations, existing/proposed plant tracking, native plant selections, and sun/shade analysis to accomplish a sustainable site for their client.
Kevin Minton– Coastal Source: A deep dive into how early-stage construction coordination and audio system layout can prevent plant stress, reduce site disruption, and enhance long-term landscape performance.
David Evers– Hunter Industries: Smart Irrigation: Using water efficient technology for today’s landscaping. The majority of the discussion will be based around using accurate weather-based information within the control package to help make sure we don’t waste that natural resource.
Brian Mitchell–Manor View Farm & Rich Poulin- The Perennial Farm: Get the latest 2026 nursery stock outlook—including trending plant varieties, availability challenges, and supply-chain insights—to help landscape professionals plan smarter and order earlier for successful project purchasing.
Q&A panels will follow each speaker. Attendees will earn 5.0 APLD credits and LA CES credits (pending) while engaging in continuing education and hands-on learning.
Event Details:
- Location: Turf Valley Resort, Ellicott City, MD
- Doors Open: 8:00 AM
- Program Begins: 9:00 AM
- Tickets – $75/per person
- Meals Included: Breakfast & lunch
- Registration Deadline: January 15
- Limited Seating—reserve early at Eventbrite HERE

0 Comments