February 18-22, 2026

Seattle Convention Center

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2026 Speakers at a Glance

Here are all of the gardening luminaries coming who will be appearing at the 2026 Northwest Flower & Garden Festival.

Want to know more about a speaker? Simply click on their name to find their biography, and either a pop up box will appear or scroll down to the bottom of the Speaker list and the information will be there.

The speakers are listed below alphabetically by last name. All seminars are FREE with your ticket! No ticket refunds for Speaker cancellation.

Robin Avni Creative Director, Author, Co-founder of BLOOM Imprint

Session: Garden Like a Flower Farmer | Hood Room, 2/19/2026, 12:00pm

Robin Avni is the co-author of The Flower Farmers (Abrams, 2025) and co-founder of BLOOM Imprint, where she collaborates with authors and creatives to produce beautifully designed, content-rich publications. A veteran of the media and high-tech industries, Robin spent more than 15 years in publishing and eight years at Microsoft, leading award-winning design teams and high-profile creative projects.

Over her career, she has produced 18 books (including seven with BLOOM Imprint co-founder Debra Prinzing) and has received numerous national awards for design and photo editing.

Robin earned a B.A. in Journalism from Indiana University, a Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship at the University of Michigan, and a Master of Communication in Digital Media from the University of Washington, where she focused on visual communication.

Ross P Bayton Botanist, Author, Director of Heronswood Garden

Session: Native or Not: Should We Be Growing Non-native plants? A Heronswood Perspective. | Rainier Room, 2/19/2026, 11:30am

London-born botanist and gardener Dr. Ross Bayton earned his Ph.D. at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, where he studied the classification of tropical palms. He is the author of several horticultural books, including The Gardener’s Botanical: An Encyclopedia of Latin Plant Names (Princeton University Press, 2020), featured in The New York Times.

Formerly Gardening Editor of the UK’s best-selling BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, Ross now serves as Director of the world-renowned Heronswood Garden in Kingston, Washington. At home in nearby Bremerton, he is developing a five-acre garden where he continues to explore his lifelong fascination with plants and design.

Ross Bayton - The Gardener's Botanical

Kamili Bell Hill Plant Stylist, Best-selling Author, Creator of PlantBlerd

Session 1: Glass Gardens: Build Your Own Terrarium Two Ways | DIY Stage, 2/20/2026, 10:15am

Session 2: Container Showdown - Friday |Main Stage, 2/20/2026, 11:00am

Kamili Bell Hill is the creative force behind PlantBlerd, a vibrant online brand where plants meet personality and design gets a dose of joy. With a background in law and a lifelong love of greenery, she’s built a community that’s both aspirational and relatable... sharing clever styling tips, encouragement, and plenty of wit.

Her engaging content has earned her a loyal following and features in HGTV Magazine, Architectural Digest, The American Gardener, Horticulture Magazine, and The Los Angeles Times. She’s partnered with major names in the gardening and home space - including the New York Botanical Garden, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, Pinterest, and TastemadeHome - bringing plant-forward inspiration to audiences both online and in person.

A returning Northwest Flower & Garden Festival speaker, Kamili brings her signature mix of humor, heart, and practical know-how to every presentation. Her first book, Happy Plants, Happy You (Cool Springs Press, 2023), debuted as an Amazon bestseller. She lives in New Rochelle, New York, with her husband, two daughters, and a thriving collection of houseplants.

Linda Beutler Author, Educator, Curator of Rogerson Clematis Collection

Session: Clematis & Roses: Creating Horticultural Heaven | Hood Room, 2/18/2026, 9:30am

Linda Beutler is an author, horticulture educator, and curator of the Rogerson Clematis Collection in Portland, Oregon... the only accredited clematis collection in North America. A lifelong champion of the genus, she has written three books, most recently The Plant Lover’s Guide to Clematis (Timber Press, 2016).

A past president of the International Clematis Society, Linda continues to serve on its council and received the Golden Clematis Award in 2018 for her contributions to the organization and the study of clematis. Since 1996, she has taught horticulture at Clackamas Community College, specializing in perennials and cutting gardens for home and commerce.

An engaging international lecturer and avid garden traveler, Linda shares her deep knowledge of perennials and design with audiences around the world.

Anne Bikle Soil Health Expert, Author, and Science Writer

Session: Growing a Garden with Soul, Soil & Science | Rainier, 2/19/2026, 4:00pm

Anne Biklé is a gardener, soil health expert, and science writer who explores humanity’s intricate relationship with the natural world. Drawing on her background in biology, environmental planning, and more than twenty years of gardening experience in the West, Anne focuses on soil health, food, gardening, and agriculture to reveal the unseen microbial worlds that sustain both plants and people.

Her work investigates how healthy soil forms the foundation of thriving ecosystems and resilient communities. Anne’s writing reflects her belief that tending the earth begins with understanding it—from the smallest microbes to the grandest landscapes.

Anne’s work has appeared in digital and print publications including Natural History, Nautilus, and Fine Gardening, as well as in newspapers, radio, podcasts, and documentary films. She is the co-author of The Hidden Half of Nature: The Microbial Roots of Life and Health (W.W. Norton, 2016) and What Your Food Ate: How to Heal Our Land and Reclaim Our Health (W.W. Norton, 2022). With the help of mulches, organic matter, and microbes, Anne continues to deepen her understanding of the living soil and the botanical world it sustains.

Marianne Binetti Container Showdown Host, writer, speaker, world traveling tour leader

Session: Traveler's Tea: Mamma Mia! Gardens with Passion [additional ticket required] | 2/18/2026, 3:30pm

Marianne is a garden writer, speaker, and world-of-gardens travel tour leader with a degree in Horticulture from Washington State University. She is the author of several gardening books, writes a long-running syndicated garden column for the Tacoma News Tribune, Daily Olympian, and other publications, and has appeared on HGTV and numerous media outlets.

Marianne gardens on two acres in Enumclaw, Washington, where she tests plants and ideas that inspire her readers and audiences. With her husband, she leads garden tours around the world—her 2026 tour, “Spotlight on Northern Italy,” invites travelers to explore gardens and culture in full bloom.

A true NWFGF Festival original, Marianne has presented at the show every year since its debut in 1989 alongside fellow longtime garden legend, Ciscoe Morris.

LoriAnn Bird Métis Herbalist, Educator, Author

Session: Reclaiming Kinship with our Plant Relatives | Adams Room, 2/22/2026, 3:00pm

LoriAnn Bird is an Indigenous Métis herbalist, educator, and community builder whose work centers on rekindling our relationship with the living world. For more than two decades, she has shared teachings about our more-than-human kin—the plants, trees, waters, and soils that sustain us—guiding others to remember the deep reciprocity between people and the natural world.

Her collaborations include projects with the David Suzuki Foundation, Provincial Health Association of BC, Village Vancouver, and YWCA. Through workshops and creation of wild and native gardens for cities and schools, Lori helps learners of all ages rediscover the medicines, spirit, and wisdom of plants as part of our shared inner ecosystems.

Her book Revered Roots: Ancestral Teachings and the Wisdom of Native, Edible, and Medicinal Plants (Quarto - Cools Springs Press, 2025) invites readers to explore stories, recipes, and reflections that awaken curiosity and respect for Mother Earth—and remind us that the world around us is alive.

Diane M Blazek Executive Director of National Garden Bureau

Session: Must-Have Plants of 2026! A Sneak Peek at the Hottest New Varieties... | Main Stage, 2/21/2026, 1:00pm

As Executive Director of the National Garden Bureau, Diane Blazek leads the organization’s wide range of programs, including the esteemed All-America Selections (AAS) trialing program. Since 2010, she has guided both NGB and AAS through a dynamic era of growth, developing innovative initiatives that engage home gardeners, empower communicators, enrich public gardens, and support green industry professionals.

Before joining NGB, Diane spent 15 years as President and Publisher of Ball Publishing, collaborating with horticultural experts to share professional knowledge with gardeners across the country. Her leadership and vision continue to inspire new generations to grow with confidence and creativity.

Rooted in her Missouri family farm upbringing, Diane’s lifelong passion for plants and the people who grow them fuels her mission to make gardening more accessible, joyful, and community-driven. Whether in a backyard, on a balcony, or across a city, her work celebrates the simple and profound act of growing.

Jessi Bloom Award-winning Author, Ecological Designer, Certified Arborist

Session 1: Assisted Migration in the Garden: Adapting to Shifting Plant Hardiness Zones | Hood, 2/18/2026, 12:00pm

Session 2: The Resilient Gardener: Graceful Strategies for a Lifetime of Growing | DIY Stage, 2/19/2026, 1:30pm

Jessi Bloom is a best-selling, award-winning ecological landscape designer, certified arborist, and author. As the owner of N.W. Bloom EcoLogical Services, she is known for her innovative approach to permaculture and sustainable landscape design, construction, and land management.

Her work has been recognized by government agencies, media, and industry organizations for its leadership in ecological stewardship. Jessi currently serves in several public roles guiding policy on conservation and climate resilience, including as an Agricultural Commissioner for King County, a board supervisor for the King Conservation District, and a member of the Washington State DNR Urban Forestry Advisory Council.

She is the author of three books, most recently Creating Sanctuary: Sacred Garden Spaces, Plant-Based Medicine, and Daily Practices to Achieve Happiness and Well-Being (Timber Press, 2018). Jessi lives in Woodinville with her children on their small permaculture farm—home to abundant gardens and a beloved collection of rescue animals.

Briana Selstad Bosch Author, Founder of Blossom and Branch Farm

Session: Native Plants in Flower Gardens: Beauty for Bouquets, Strength for Ecosystems | Adams Room, 2/18/2026,1:30pm

Briana Selstad Bosch is the author of The Regenerative Gardener’s Handbook (Storey Publishing, 2025) and the founder of Blossom and Branch Farm, a two-acre microfarm in Colorado dedicated to growing flowers and native plants using organic and regenerative practices. Her work focuses on cultivating beauty while restoring habitat for pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects.

Through her teaching, writing, and workshops—both online and in person—Briana empowers gardeners to adopt regenerative techniques that build soil health and biodiversity in any space. She shares practical advice, seasonal inspiration, and insights from life on the farm with a wide audience through her social media presence at @blossomandbranchfarm.

Marc W Boucher-Colbert Garden Specialist, Educator, Urban Agriculture Innovator

Session: 20 Years of Rooftop Gardening at Portland's Noble Rot | Adams Room, 2/19/2026, 10:30am

Marc Boucher-Colbert is the Garden Specialist at the Franciscan Montessori Earth School in Portland, Oregon, and principal of Urban AG Solutions, where he has managed the Noble Rot rooftop garden since its creation in 2006. A pioneer in Portland’s urban farming movement, he founded Urban Bounty Farm—one of the city’s first community-supported urban farms—and later co-founded Zenger Farm, now a thriving hub for agricultural education.

Marc holds a master’s degree in education from Portland State University, focused on sustainability leadership and school gardens. His work bridges teaching, design, and ecological stewardship, helping communities grow closer to the land through hands-on learning.

He is the creator of the Design Your Eden garden design card deck and the online course Things They Didn’t Teach You in Garden School, available on Udemy and Skillshare. Marc continues to inspire new generations of gardeners to grow with curiosity, creativity, and care for the earth.

Elizabeth Brown Author, Founder of Foxglove Farmhouse

Session: How to Create a Cut Flower Garden | Adams Room, 2/21/2026 10:30am

Elizabeth Brown is the author of A Beginner’s Cut Flower Garden (Timber Press, 2025), a certified therapeutic horticulturist, and a Maine Master Gardener Volunteer. She is the creator of Foxglove Farmhouse, a quarter-acre cut flower garden known for its chemical-free mix of annuals, perennials, and native blooms that provide sustainable, locally grown flowers to florists and markets.

Through her business and her year-long virtual program, the Foxglove Garden Club, Elizabeth helps beginning gardeners gain confidence in growing, arranging, and enjoying their own flowers. She regularly teaches workshops on cut flower design, floral arranging, and seed sowing, blending professional expertise with a warm, approachable teaching style.

In addition to running her educational programs, Elizabeth serves as the Resident Gardener at Cliff House Maine, where she continues to share her love of gardening, creativity, and community.

Susan Browne Award-winning Landscape Designer, Educator

Session: Container Showdown | Main Stage, 2/22/2026, 11:00am

With more than 38 years in the horticulture industry, Susan Browne brings a lifetime of design expertise and creative vision to every project. As the owner of Susan Browne Landscape Design for the past 25 years, she specializes in residential master plans, commercial landscapes, container gardens, and seasonal décor.

A designer of 19 display gardens over the years for the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival, Susan’s work has earned multiple Gold Medals, the Fine Gardening Award, the Fred Palmer Award, and recognition for Best Use of Color.

Beyond her professional work, Susan volunteers with Snohomish County 4-H, leading youth gardening programs for nearly a decade. She is passionate about teaching the next generation the fundamentals of soil health, pollinator support, and plant identification.

Greg Butler BLA, ATA–Designer, Educator, Owner of Design of the Times

Session: Plant It Where the Sun Don’t Shine | Hood Room, 2/18/2026, 4:00pm

Greg is a designer, educator, and owner of Design of the Times, a design and consulting firm that helps clients create beautiful, functional, and low-maintenance landscapes. For more than three decades, he has educated and entertained gardeners of all levels as a teacher, lecturer, writer, and garden coach.

Greg emphasizes sustainable design principles by helping gardeners succeed without relying on pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or other forms of “synthetic tomfoolery.”

When he’s not advising others, he’s often found debating design decisions with his wife (also a landscape professional) in their own aptly named garden, “The Garden of the Shoemaker’s Children.”

Susan Calhoun Award-winning Landscape Designer, Writer, Speaker

Session: Beyond Right Plant Right Place | Rainier Room, 2/18/2026, 2:30pm

Susan Calhoun is a certified landscape designer and owner of Plantswoman Design, Inc., with over 25 years of experience creating sustainable gardens for homes, businesses, and public spaces. Known for her use of recycled materials and “green” practices, she designs landscapes that are both artful and resilient.

A frequent contributor to Fine Gardening Magazine, Susan has written multiple feature stories - including the August 2022 cover article “Designing a Four-Season Grass-Forward Garden” - and serves as the Pacific Northwest regional reporter for the magazine’s online edition. Her work has also appeared in Sunset, The Seattle Times, and West Sound Home & Gardens.

Susan has designed eight gardens for the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival and presents regularly for garden clubs and horticultural events throughout the region, inspiring audiences to combine beauty, ecology, and creativity in every garden.

Jennifer Rose Carey Author, Horticulturist, Garden Educator

Session 1: Summer & Autumn Bulbs | Hood Room, 2/20/2026, 12:00pm

Session 2: Spring Bulbs & Their Herbaceous Companions | Rainier Room, 2/21/2026, 2:30pm

Jenny Rose Carey is an avid hands-on gardener and professional horticulturist. Born in England to a family of botanists and gardeners, she designed her first herb garden at age sixteen and later moved to the Philadelphia area, where she has gardened ever since.

She has served as Director of two public gardens—the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s Garden at Meadowbrook Farm. Today, she devotes her time to writing, speaking, and tending her four-and-a-half-acre garden, Northview, where she has lived for more than 25 years.

She is the author of three books, most recently The Essential Guide to Bulbs: Grow a Bounty of Beautiful Bulbs in Gardens and Containers (Timber Press, 2025).

Leo Carver Author, Gardener, Ayurveda Practitioner

Session: Spiritual Lessons from the World of Plants | Adams Room, 2/19/2026, 3:00pm

Leo Carver is an author, gardener, and holistic wellness educator who blends the wisdom of Ayurveda, meditation, and mindfulness with a deep love for the natural world. His passion for gardening and herbal medicine inspired his book Growing Consciousness: A Gardener’s Guide to Seeding the Soul (Mandala Publishing, 2022), which explores how cultivating the earth can also nurture the spirit.

A certified Ayurveda practitioner and graduate of the Chopra Center’s Perfect Health program, Leo has spent more than a decade teaching the healing practices of meditation, yoga, and natural herbalism. His warm, accessible teaching style helps audiences connect ancient principles to modern life in meaningful, practical ways.

After overcoming a life-threatening battle with Crohn’s disease through lifestyle and spiritual transformation, Leo dedicated his life to sharing the tools that supported his healing. Alongside his wife, author and speaker Dr. Melissa Carver, he leads classes and retreats that inspire others to grow wellness from the inside out.

Linda Chalker-Scott Ph.D. Horticulturist, Researcher, Author

Session: Stressed Out: Recognizing, Treating, and Avoiding Drought Stress in Landscapes and Gardens | Hood Room, 2/20/2026, 10:45am

Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott holds a Ph.D. in horticulture from Oregon State University and serves as Washington State University’s Extension Urban Horticulturist and Emerita Professor in the Department of Horticulture. She is an ISA Certified Arborist and TRAQ credential holder, as well as an ASCA Consulting Arborist. Linda conducts research in applied plant and soil sciences, publishing her findings in scientific journals and university Extension fact sheets. She is also committed to enhancing scientific literacy by teaching audiences how to assess the credibility of information from print and online sources.

An award-winning author of five books, Linda was featured in The Science of Gardening, a video series produced by The Great Courses. She is also one of The Garden Professors—a group of academic colleagues who educate and entertain through their blog and Facebook pages. Her educational contributions to science-based horticulture have been recognized by Garden Communicators International, the National Association of County Agricultural Agents, and the International Society for Arboriculture.

Karen Chapman Landscape Designer, Author, Owner of Le Jardinet

Session: Creative Alternatives to the Classic Lawn | Hood Room, 2/21/2026, 1:15pm

Born in England, Karen grew up with a trowel in her hand. After moving to the Pacific Northwest in 1996, she joined Molbak’s Garden & Home as a garden plant specialist before establishing Le Jardinet in 2006. Initially known for her custom container gardens, she now applies that same attention to detail to designing functional and artistic landscapes. Her work has been featured in Fine Gardening, Sunset, and Better Homes & Gardens.

The author of three books, including Deer-Resistant Design (Timber Press, 2019), Karen is celebrated for her expertise in foliage-driven design and her ability to help gardeners blend beauty with practicality. Her writing and lectures emphasize creativity, structure, and the art of combining texture and color for lasting impact.

When she’s not designing gardens or writing about them, Karen teaches workshops across the country and online, where her approachable style and depth of knowledge have earned her a devoted following. She also leads international garden tours to England, South Africa, New Zealand, and destinations throughout the United States. Whether on the stage or the page, her goal is always the same—to inspire, educate, and share the joy of gardening.

John Coghlan Award-Winning Landscape Designer, Owner of HomeGrown Organics

Session: Sedges Have Edges: Unlocking the Secrets of Carex in Your Garden | Hood Room, 2/19/2026, 10:45am

John Coghlan is an award-winning landscape designer and gardener based on Vashon Island, Washington. His work centers on creating gardens that deepen our connection with nature, drawing inspiration from native creeks, meadows, and forests, as well as from English, Spanish, and Japanese design traditions.

His 2023 gold medal-winning garden at the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival recreated his family’s home garden on Vashon Island... a space shared with their dog and chickens and filled with edible plants, berries, and flowers that bloom year-round. A greenhouse brimming with hardy orchids and tropical fruits doubles as the family’s outdoor living room.

Through his business, HomeGrown Organics, John offers garden design and consulting services across the region, as well as fine garden maintenance and new garden installations on Vashon. His work combines beauty, productivity, and a strong sense of place rooted in the Pacific Northwest landscape.

Janice Cox Author, Natural Beauty Expert

Session: Natural Color from the Garden | DIY Stage, 2/20/2026, 1:30pm

Janice Cox is a nationally recognized expert in natural beauty, DIY skincare, and gardening for health and wellness. The author of five books, most recently Beautiful Roses Made Easy (Ogden Publications, 2025), she also created a hands-on workbook series focused on growing, using, and enjoying plants.

With more than 30 years of experience, Janice shares her expertise through writing, speaking, and live demonstrations at gardens and events nationwide. She has served as Education Chair for The Herb Society of America and lives in Southern Oregon, where she continues to grow, create, and inspire others every day.

Perla Curbelo-Santiago Award-winning Gardening Communicator, Author, Wellness Advocate

Session 1: Container Showdown - Friday | Main Stage, 2/20/2026, 11:00am
Session 2: The Joy of Garden Breaks After Dark | DIY Stage, 2/21/2026, 1:30pm

Perla is a gardener, author, and professional communicator from Puerto Rico. She is the founder of Agrochic.com, a bilingual gardening lifestyle platform that promotes gardening for wellness, and the author of ¡Verdura! Living a Garden Life (Cool Springs Press, 2024). Through her writing, speaking, and media projects, she encourages others to embrace the therapeutic benefits of connecting with plants.

A graduate of the University of Puerto Rico with a degree in Psychology and a master’s in Public Relations from Universidad del Sagrado Corazón, Perla Sofía also holds a Professional Certificate in Horticultural Therapy from the Chicago Botanic Garden. She is the founder of Zurda Media Enterprises, a communications company producing agricultural and garden-related content since 2007.

An award-winning communicator recognized by the American Horticultural Society with the B.Y. Morrison Communication Award, Perla Sofía shares her message across print, television, podcasts, and live events. She serves on the board of KidsGardening.org and is a member of Garden Communicators International, the American Horticultural Therapy Association, and the BIPOC Hort Group. Her #GardenBreak movement inspires audiences in both Spanish and English to pause, breathe, and reconnect with nature for well-being.

Nick Cutsumpas NWFG26 Judge, Plant Coach, Award-winning Designer, Environmentalist

Session 1: Container Showdown: Celebrity Edition | Main Stage, 2/19/2026 1:00pm

Session 2: TBD | Main Stage, 2/19/2026 4:00pm

Session 3: TBD | Rainier Room | 2/22/2026, 1:00pm

Nick is an award-winning landscape designer, full-time plant coach, and environmentalist whose work has been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, Architectural Digest, Business Insider, Food Network, and The Washington Post. He’s appeared on the Netflix series The Big Flower Fight, Instant Dream Home, and on the TEDx stage.

The author of Plant Coach: The Beginner’s Guide to Caring for Plants and the Planet (Harper Design, 2022), Nick also created The Adventures of Farmer Nick and Plant Kids show and course. With more than 150 clients between New York and Los Angeles, this self-described “plantrepreneur” is passionate about giving people the knowledge and confidence to create their own green spaces—and to leave the earth greener than they found it.

Kate David Award-winning Garden Designer, Educator, Owner of Hello Garden

Session 1: Container Showdown | Main Stage, 2/18/2026, 11:00am
Session 2: Container Geometry 101 | Hood Room, 2/21/2026, 2:45pm

Kate David is the owner and creative force behind Hello Garden, a boutique landscape and container design company she founded in 2016 to help people connect with plants and outdoor spaces. Her thoughtful, expressive designs now appear in homes and businesses throughout the greater Seattle area and Eastside.

A passionate educator and engaging speaker, Kate is known for her approachable, empowering style. She shares her love of gardening through in-person talks, virtual workshops, and her YouTube channel, where she connects with a growing community of plant enthusiasts eager to learn and be inspired.

In 2023, Kate debuted a gold medal–winning Display Garden at the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival and returned the following year to continue cultivating community among fellow garden lovers. When not designing or teaching, she can be found with her hands in the soil or cheering from the sidelines. A longtime advocate for edible education, she developed and taught a hands-on garden curriculum for elementary students—championing growth in every form

JJ DeSousa Award-winning garden and interior designer

Session: Traveler's Tea: Wandering Through the Loire: A Garden Lover’s Dream [additional ticket required] | 2/21/2026, 3:30pm

JJ DeSousa is a Portland-based garden and interior designer known for creating vibrant, eclectic spaces that blend indoor comfort with outdoor beauty. As the owner of digs inside & out, she mixes new and vintage pieces, curated finds, and custom details to craft colorful, functional environments that reflect each client’s personality and style.

Her work has appeared in Sunset, Garden Design, Better Homes & Gardens, and Country Living. A longtime Northwest Flower & Garden Festival contributor, JJ has earned multiple honors, including Best Design Awards for “Rock the Kasbah” (2020) and “Balcon d’Oiseaux et Fleurs” (2023).

When not designing, JJ divides her time between Portland and France’s Loire Valley, where she gardens, explores, and leads exclusive lifestyle tours celebrating the region’s châteaux, gardens, and markets.

Chris Dixon Award-winning Designer, Owner of Vescas Gardening

Session: Crevice Gardens: Moveable Mountains | DIY Stage, 2/18/2026, 1:30pm

Chris is the owner and operator of Vescas Gardening, where he designs and installs rock and alpine gardens that showcase plants from high-altitude regions around the world. Using local stone to recreate the feel of mountain landscapes, Chris brings natural beauty and structure into every setting. His award-winning trough gardens offer year-round interest and plant diversity, making alpine design accessible to gardens of any size.

Born and raised in London, England, Chris spent several years backpacking through Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America, and has lived in Australia, Ecuador, and India. He moved to Victoria, British Columbia, fourteen years ago to pursue a horticultural education and career.

When not designing or tending gardens, Chris can be found exploring the trails, beaches, and wild places of Vancouver Island—continuing to find inspiration in the landscapes that inform his work.

Krystal Duran Houseplant Educator, Creator of PlantswithKrystal

Session 1: House of Plants | 2/20/2026, 11:30, 1pm, 3pm

Session 2: The Indoor Jungle Blueprint: Designing HousePlant-Filled Spaces That Thrive | Main Stage, 2/21/2026, 4:00pm

Krystal is a plant educator and digital creator known for making plant care approachable, inclusive, and fun. Through her platform PlantswithKrystal, she shares practical tips and gentle encouragement to help people gain confidence in their green spaces—reminding her followers that no one is “bad” at plants, they just need a little practice and perspective.

Her philosophy is rooted in celebrating growth—of both people and plants. Krystal’s down-to-earth teaching style has built a loyal online community of new and seasoned plant lovers alike. She believes that every space can thrive when we choose plants that fit our environments and our lives.

Lorene Edwards Forkner Artist, Author, Garden Journalist

Session: Operating Instructions for the (Occasionally Overwhelmed) Gardener | Hood Room, 2/19/2026, 2:45pm

Lorene Edwards Forkner is a gardener, author, maker, and speaker whose work explores the beauty and lessons of the natural world. A regular contributor to the “GROW” column in The Seattle Times’ Pacific NW Magazine and a monthly voice on Garden Rant, she brings thoughtful observation and creative curiosity to every project.

Lorene believes that the best gardening lessons - nurturing, connection, and care - are essential to building an equitable and sustainable world. She lives in an old house near the beach, where she tends a tiny plot filled with seasonal pleasures, delicious flavors, and creative experimentation.

She is the author of several books, including the recently released titles, Grow Great Vegetables Washington and Grow Great Vegetables Oregon (Timber, 2026) as well as Color In and Out of the Garden (Abrams, 2022), a memoir told in plants and color.

Kevin Espiritu Founder & CEO of Epic Gardening

Session 1: Container Showdown: Celebrity Edition | Main Stage, 2/20/2026, 1:00pm

Session 2: Soil Health Simplified with Epic Gardening | DIY Stage, 2/22/2026, 11:45am

Kevin Espiritu is the founder and CEO of Epic Gardening, the world’s most-followed gardening brand and online garden store. As a self-taught gardener, Espiritu has spent over a decade producing educational gardening content across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, the Epic Gardening podcast, and blog. He’s amassed over 3.6 million social media followers, 11 million podcast downloads, and 42 million blog visits.

Additionally, Espiritu has authored multiple books, “Field Guide to Urban Gardening: How to Grow Plants, No Matter Where You Live” and “Grow Bag Gardening: The Revolutionary Way to Grow Bountiful Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, and Flowers in Lightweight, Eco-friendly Fabric Pots.”

His third book, ” Epic Homesteading: Your Guide To Self-Sufficiency On A Modern, High-Tech, Backyard Homestead ” will be released in the spring and chronicles how he converted his urban residence into the Epic Homestead in San Diego, California.

Brenna M Estrada Flower Farmer, Author, Pansy Fan

Session: Reimagining Pansies | Hood Room, 2/20/2026, 1:15pm

Brenna Estrada is an accomplished flower farmer whose passion for pansies has inspired a devoted following of gardeners and artists around the world. Through her work, she celebrates the beauty and diversity of this often-underestimated flower, cultivating and sharing extraordinary varieties that have captivated the floral community.

Brenna is the author of Pansies (Timber Press, 2025), a book that reflects her commitment to honoring the flower’s history while expanding its creative possibilities. At her farm, Three Brothers Blooms on Camano Island in the Pacific Northwest, she focuses on breeding and growing specialty pansies and making their seeds more accessible to both small-scale growers and home gardeners.

With an artist’s eye and a farmer’s heart, Brenna continues to connect people to the beauty of seasonal blooms and to inspire a new appreciation for the humble yet extraordinary pansy.

Maria Failla Podcast Host, Author, Plant Educator

Session 1: Stop Killing Houseplants: Shop Based on Your Plant Parent Personality | Main Stage, 2/18/2026 4:00pm

Session 2: House of Plants | 2/19/2026,11:30am, 1pm, 3pm

Maria is a self-described “plant killer turned plant lady” on a mission to help people successfully care for plants and make the world a kinder, greener place. She hosts Growing Joy with Plants, a top houseplant and gardening podcast with over two million downloads and recognition as a 2020 Webby Honoree.

Her book, Growing Joy: The Plant Lover’s Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) (Macmillan-St. Martin’s, 2022), blends personal growth and plant care to inspire mindful, practical ways to bring nature into everyday life.

Before her plant journey, Maria spent a decade as a professional musical theater performer on Broadway and international stages. Today, she uses that voice to help others grow more joy—one leaf at a time.

Felicia A Feaster Journalist, Author, Former HGTV Editor

Session 1: Strange Garden Follies and Obsessions of the Victorian Gardener |Adams Room, 2/20/2026, 3:00pm

Session 2: Grow a Goth Garden | Adams Room, 2/21/2026, 3:00pm

Felicia Feaster is an award-winning journalist and author whose work explores the intersections of gardens, design, and culture. A former managing editor at HGTV.com and editor-in-chief of the HGTVGardens.com site, her writing has appeared in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Martha Stewart, Garden & Gun, and Travel Channel.

Her forthcoming book, The Goth Garden: The Mystery, Beauty, and Lore of Dark Gardening (Simon & Schuster, 2025), examines the growing fascination with moody, mysterious landscapes inspired by Victorian design, gothic literature, and a new generation of gardeners enchanted by deep-hued and unconventional plants.

Filled with rich plant history from ancient Greece to today, The Goth Garden is the first book to chronicle this viral social media–fueled gardening movement, where shadow and beauty meet in striking, one-of-a-kind gardens.

Cindy Funes Container Designer, Educator, Owner of Garden Revelry

Session: The Power of Pots; Five Stories of Transformation, Function & Flair | Hood Room, 2/21/2026, 10:45am

Cindy Funes is a Certified Professional Horticulturist, award-winning container garden designer, and the owner of Garden Revelry. With more than sixteen years of experience designing, installing, and maintaining containers across the Pacific Northwest, she is known for creating lush, seasonal plantings that transform with the rhythm of the year.

As an educator and speaker, Cindy shares her expertise through The Container Design School, her YouTube channel, and workshops for both homeowners and industry professionals. She also serves as Board President of Digging In Association, where she helps foster community among fellow horticulturists and garden enthusiasts.

Cindy’s mission is to make container gardening accessible, creative, and joyful—offering practical advice and inspiration to gardeners of all skill levels. When she’s not planting or teaching, she enjoys swimming, reading, playing board games, and spending time with family, friends, and her faithful companion, Tucker.

Willi Galloway Author, Award-winning Radio Host, Garden-to-Table Expert

Session: Delicious Edible Varieties from PNW Seed Companies | Rainier Room | 2/18/2026, 4:00pm

Willi Galloway is an award-winning radio commentator, writer, and the author of Grow Cook Eat: A Food Lover’s Guide to Vegetable Gardening and the forthcoming Veggies for Breakfast: 100 Delicious Plant-Focused Recipes for Healthier Mornings (Sasquatch Books, 2025). Her work bridges the garden and kitchen, celebrating the connection between growing and cooking fresh, seasonal food.

Willi began her career at Organic Gardening magazine, where she rose from editorial intern to West Coast Editor. In Seattle, she became deeply involved in the urban agriculture movement, earning her Master Gardener certification and serving six years on the board of Seattle Tilth (now Tilth Alliance). Along the way, she’s grown food in unexpected places... from rooftop plots and community gardens to her own sunny front yard.

She has written for Sunset, Vegetarian Times, and Apartment Therapy, and her garden has been featured in Sunset magazine. Willi also served for eight years as the vegetable gardening expert on Seattle’s NPR station KUOW and co-hosted the online show Grow. Cook. Eat. with her husband, Jonathan. She now lives and gardens in Portland, Oregon.

Alanna Garcia Floral Designer, Owner of Verde & Co.

Session: Blooms & Bubbles: Designing with Spring Flowering [additional ticket required], Main Stage, 2/20/2026, 2:30pm

BulbsAlanna Garcia is a floral designer and owner of Verde & Co., a boutique flower shop in Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood. Her creative journey began in the wedding industry, designing for couples and celebrations before launching her own design studio in 2017. In 2020, she acquired Verde & Co., where her artistry and love for nature shine through in elegant, modern floral creations for clients including Charli XCX, Troye Sivan, Dr. Jill Biden, and Katy Perry.

A Pacific Northwest native, Alanna finds inspiration in the region’s lush landscapes, weaving organic textures and seasonal blooms into every arrangement. Her work emphasizes locally grown flowers and sustainable practices, balancing natural beauty with contemporary design.

When she’s not in the shop or walking her dachshund, Ellie, along the beach, Alanna brings her artistry into the community through the beloved Verde Flower Truck—sharing fresh bouquets and a little floral joy across Seattle.

Sue Goetz Award-winning Garden Designer, Author, Speaker

Session 1: Traveler's Tea: "Pinching" England [additional ticket required] | 2/20/2026, 3:30pm

Session 2: Grow This- Make That! Herb Gardens on a Theme | DIY Stage, 2/21/2026, 11:45am

Session 3: The Herbal Landscape | Rainier Room, 2/21/2026. 4:00pm

Sue Goetz, CPH, ecoPRO, is an award-winning garden designer, writer, and speaker. Through her design firm, she helps clients create personalized outdoor spaces - from garden coaching to complete landscape design - blending beauty with purpose.

The author of three books, including, most recently, Complete Container Herb Gardening (Cool Springs Press, 2020), Sue shares her lifelong passion for herbs and creative gardening through writing and teaching. Her motto, “…inspiring gardeners to create,” defines her hands-on workshops and presentations that spark creativity in and out of the garden.

A certified professional horticulturist with the Washington State Nursery and Landscape Association and an ecoPRO-certified sustainable landscape professional, Sue’s work has appeared in numerous publications, including The American Gardener, Fine Gardening, and Pacific Horticulture.

Erica B Grivas Award-winning Garden Journalist

Session: Futurescaping: Ancient Wisdom Meets Tomorrow’s Gardens | Adams Room, 2/18/2026, 12:00pm

Erica Grivas is a journalist and lifelong gardener who explores how people connect with plants, gardens, and the natural world. Her work appears in The Seattle Times, Horticulture, Better Homes and Gardens, and American Gardener.

She holds a Certificate in Landscape Design from The New York Botanical Garden, has nearly a decade of nursery experience, and serves as a Tilth Alliance Sustainability Steward. Erica invites audiences to see gardens as places of beauty, inspiration, and connection – blending science, design, and practical knowledge.

Jennifer Gulizia Flower Farmer, Educator, Podcast Host

Session: Regenerative Flower Farming: How Beauty Can Heal the Earth | Adams Room, 2/22/2026, 10:30am

Jennifer Gulizia is a flower farmer, dahlia hybridizer, educator, and podcast host based in Hood River, Oregon. As the founder of The Flowering Farmhouse and host of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, she blends hands-on expertise with heartfelt storytelling to inspire gardeners across the country.

After 12 years as a professional photographer, Jennifer followed her dream of farming full-time and now stewards a 20-acre regenerative flower farm with her family. She also leads The Dahlia Patch, an online learning community for flower lovers, and is currently filming a documentary on sustainable flower farming.

Through her teaching and storytelling, Jennifer helps gardeners rediscover the joy of growing with intention... where beauty, meaning, and resilience take root.

Dee Hall Goodwin Flower Farmer, Designer, Founder of Mermaid City Flowers

Session 1: Living Wreaths: Seasonal Design with Plants | DIY Stage, 2/21/2026, 5:00pm

Session 2: Blooms & Bubbles: Designing With Lillies [additional ticket required] | Main Stage | 2/22/2026, 2:30pm

Dee Hall Goodwin is a flower farmer, floral designer, and community organizer based in Norfolk, Virginia. She founded Mermaid City Flowers, an urban flower farm and design studio growing on small borrowed plots with a focus on sustainable practices, native plants, and climate-conscious floristry. Her work blends cultivation, craft, and culture—bringing together fresh design, ecological awareness, and community connection.

Dee has been featured in Garden & Gun, Country Living, Black Flora, NPR, and PBS. She is the founder of the Black Flower Farmers Collective, which is partnering with the Slow Flowers Summit in 2026 to highlight and support BIPOC voices in floriculture. She also serves on the Community Engagement and Outreach Committee for the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers and on the President’s Council on Inclusion and Diversity at the Norfolk Botanical Garden.

A sought-after speaker, Dee has presented for the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, the Slow Flowers Summit, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and the Garden Club of America. Her current work explores how flowers tell stories of resilience, heritage, and renewal—whether through design, speaking, or teaching.

Brandy Hall Author and Founder, Shades of Green Permaculture

Session: Smart Stormwater: Practical Solutions for a Resilient Future | Adams Room, 2/19/2026, 12:00pm

Brandy Hall is the founder of Shades of Green Permaculture, a certified B Corp that has worked with more than a thousand clients to design landscapes that restore ecological health and beauty. Since founding the company in 2008, she has grown it into a thriving practice with a team of 30, dedicated to creating systems that nourish both people and the planet.

Brandy’s roots are in building. After earning her General Contractor’s license at age twenty, she trained as a stonemason and fell in love with how thoughtful design responds to the natural world. She holds a Permaculture Design Certificate (PDC), a master’s degree in Contemplative Education from Naropa University, and a B.A. in English Literature.

Her upcoming book, The Complete Guide to Home Permaculture (Cool Springs Press, 2026), shares practical ways to bring regenerative design principles into everyday life. Recognized by Garden & Gun as “part of a new guard of landscape designers,” Brandy also serves as Mayor of Pine Lake, Georgia, where she spends lots of time outdoors with her daughter.

Skye Hamilton Content Creator, Founder of Hamilton House Designs

Session 1: Hydrangea Decor for Every Season | DIY Stage, 2/20/2026, 11:45am

Session 2: Timeless Gardens, Modern Joy | Hood Room, 2/21/2026 9:30am

Session 3: Container Showdown | Main Stage, 2/21/2026 11:00am

Known as “The Hydrangea Queen,” Skye Hamilton blends education and entertainment to create engaging, accessible home and garden content. Based in Idaho, she has become the go-to source for all things hydrangea through her platform, Hamilton House Designs, where she shares expert tips, personal stories, and her signature humor with a loyal online following.

With a background in interior design, Skye also inspires audiences with ideas for tablescapes, home styling, and seasonal décor. Her lively, informative approach has made her one of the most recognizable voices in modern garden and lifestyle media.

Kiara Hancock Floral Artist, Creative Coach, Founder of K. Hancock Design

Session: Floral Therapy: Designing with Feeling + Intention | DIY Stage, 2/19/2026, 3:15pm

Kiara Hancock doesn’t do boring. A bold floral artist and installation designer based in Seattle, she’s known for her fearless color palettes, unconventional vessels, and large-scale creations that make people stop, stare, and feel. Whether it’s a centerpiece or a full-blown floral sculpture in a broken TV, Kiara’s work breaks the rules and invites emotion.

As the founder of K. Hancock Design and a certified creative coach, Kiara blends intuition, artistry, and humor to help people reconnect with their creative spark. Her teaching style is high-energy and no fluff. For Kiara, it’s never just about one flower—it’s about the whole landscape.

Dan M Heims Author, President of Terra Nova Nurseries

Session: Variegata! | Hood Room, 2/19/2026 9:30am

Since 1973, Dan Heims has been deeply involved in nearly every facet of horticulture—as an educator, designer, nurseryman, and global plant explorer. He is the president of Terra Nova Nurseries, Inc., internationally recognized for introducing more than 1,300 new plants to horticulture. Terra Nova’s breeding programs have produced numerous gold- and silver-medal winners around the world.

Dan’s writing and photography have appeared in major magazines, books, and blogs, and he has hosted radio programs and appeared on The Martha Stewart Show, HGTV, and the BBC. His work and garden have been featured in USA Today, Forbes, Better Homes and Gardens, Sunset, and Organic Gardening.

A published author, Dan wrote The Garden Clerk’s Dictionary and co-authored Heucheras and Heucherellas (Timber Press, 2005). A popular speaker known for his humor and insight, he has presented programs throughout the United States and in more than a dozen countries worldwide.

Justin Henderson Executive Director and Head Gardener, Lakewold Gardens

Session 1: Container Showdown | Main Stage, 2/19/2026 11:00am

Session 2: Legendary Public Gardens that Define the Puget Sound | Rainier Room, 2/20/2026 11:30am

Justin Henderson is the Executive Director and Head Gardener at Lakewold Gardens in Lakewood, Washington. Known for his enthusiasm and infectious love of plants, he champions gardens wherever he goes. If he’s not strolling through one, he’s likely at a window sipping coffee, reading about gardens, daydreaming about them, or plotting his next visit.

Before joining Lakewold, Justin served as Garden Director at PowellsWood Garden, where he made it his mission to get more people outside and connected to nature. A believer in the power of community, he shares Lakewold’s magic (and a bit of his garden dancing antics) on Instagram @lakewoldgardens.

Justin has served in leadership roles with the Northwest Horticultural Society and remains active with The Garden Conservancy Northwest Network, Puget Sound Public Gardens, and the American Public Gardens Association. Growing up in the rural Pacific Northwest, he spent his childhood exploring forests and befriending woodland creatures... early adventures that planted the seeds for a lifelong passion for cultivating wonder.

Grace Hensley Certified Horticulturist, Photographer, Science Communicator

Session: Gardening for Gut Health: Small Space Strategies to Improve Your Microbiome | Adams Room, 2/18/2026 4:30pm

Grace Hensley is a Certified Professional Horticulturist, published garden photographer, and science communicator who blends botanical beauty with research-based insight. With a degree in biochemistry and decades of hands-on experience, she brings clarity and creativity to complex gardening topics.

Her photography and writing have appeared in The Garden (RHS), American Horticulturist, and APLD publications, celebrating the natural elegance of cultivated and wild spaces alike. A sought-after speaker, Grace has presented at garden clubs, trade shows, and national conferences, known for her calm, clear delivery and science-driven storytelling.

Her current work, The Microbiome Gardener, explores the connection between healthy soil, edible plants, and the human gut microbiome. Whether discussing container gardens, edible landscapes, or garden photography, Grace offers accessible, inspiring ideas for gardeners seeking beauty, nourishment, and resilience.

Staci & Jeremy Hill Authors, Owners of Gooseberry Bridge Farm

Session: Why Succession Planting Matters for Preservers | Rainier Room, 2/22/2026 2:30pm

Staci and Jeremy Hill are the owners of Gooseberry Bridge Farm (@gooseberrybridgefarm) in the Ozark Mountains of southwestern Missouri. In 2016, they traded subdivision life for an 11.6-acre farm... and haven’t looked back since.

On their farm, the Hills grow, harvest, and preserve much of their own food through canning, freezing, dehydrating, and freeze-drying. They also operate a you-pick flower farm that blooms with seasonal color throughout the year, sharing their love of gardening and self-sufficiency with the community.

Their first book, The Preserver’s Garden (Quarto Publishing, 2025), offers a comprehensive guide to growing and preserving homegrown food using both traditional and modern techniques for year-round enjoyment.

Dan Hinkley Award-winning Plantsman, Collector, Author

Session 1: High Lights from Soaring Heights; Reflections on Four Decades of Plant Hunting | Rainier Room, 2/19/2026, 1:30pm

Session 2: Interview with Dan Hinkley: A Life in Plants | Adams Room, 2/20/2026, 2:30pm

Daniel Hinkley is a plantsman, author, lecturer, nurseryman and horticultural consultant. He earned a B.S. in Horticulture and Horticulture Education from Michigan State University and an M.S. from Urban Horticulture at the University of Washington. His first garden, Heronswood, near Kingston, WA is now owned and operated by the Port Gamble SKlallam Tribe and is opened to the public throughout the year. His current garden, Windcliff, just a few miles from Heronswood, sits on a high bluff overlooking the Salish Sea. For forty years, Hinkley has traveled the globe to similar climates to observe and preserve plants that deserve recognition as possible new additions to landscapes worldwide. He has written four books and has been recognized by his peers in receiving numerous awards for his work, including the Liberty Hyde Bailey Award from the American Horticulture Society, the Scott Gold Medal from the Scott Arboretum and the Veitch Memorial Medal from the Royal Horticultural Society.

Frank Hyman Award-winning Garden Designer, Author, Horticulturist

Session: How Can Italians Grow Great Tomatoes While Yours Crap Out Every Year? | Hood Room, 2/21/2026, 4:00pm

Frank Hyman is an award-winning garden designer, carpenter, stone mason, and writer whose career began after earning a double major in horticulture and design at North Carolina State University, where he studied under renowned plantsman Dr. J.C. Raulston. Before returning to school at 27, Frank managed an organic tomato farm and worked as an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) scout for conventional growers... experience that shaped his practical, sustainable approach to gardening.

His writing has appeared in Horticulture, Organic Gardening, Fine Gardening, Modern Farmer, Mother Earth News, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and other publications. He is the author of three books, with Ripe Tomato Revolution (Cool Springs Press) coming out next in 2026.

Frank lives and gardens in Durham, North Carolina, where his creative, hands-on approach continues to inspire gardeners everywhere.

Wambui Ipolito Horticulturalist, Award-winning Landscape Designer, Author

Session 1: TBD | Rainier Room, 2/18/2026 1:00pm

Session 2: TBD | Rainier Room, 2/19/2026 10:00am

Wambui Ippolito is a New York–based horticulturalist, landscape designer, and author celebrated for her artistry, cultural insight, and ecological sensitivity. A graduate of the prestigious New York Botanical Garden’s School of Professional Horticulture, she has designed gardens for residential, commercial, and public spaces across the United States.

Born in Kenya, Wambui brings a global perspective to her work, blending traditional influences with modern design. Early in her career, she served as a horticulturist at several renowned private estates, including those of Martha Stewart and David Letterman, and today maintains a select roster of private clients spanning business, media, and the arts.

In 2021, Wambui won the Philadelphia Flower Show by unanimous decision and was named by Veranda magazine as one of “11 Revolutionary Female Landscape Designers and Architects Everyone Should Know.” A sought-after speaker, she lectures nationwide and collaborates with museums, botanical gardens, and cultural institutions on design and educational programming.

Kara Jamison Cut Flower Grower, Designer, Educator

Session: Cut Flower Garden 101: The Best Blooms to Grow for Beginners | Hood Room, 2/20/2026, 4:00pm

Kara Jamison is a cut flower grower, floral designer, and educator who has been cultivating beauty at her Tennessee farm, Blooming Joy Flower Co., since 2018. Over the years, she has become a respected voice in the cut flower industry, teaching gardeners and aspiring farmers how to grow and design with confidence.

Her floral work has appeared in weddings, bouquet subscriptions, and pop-up events, and her expertise has been featured on Talk of the Town Nashville, Volunteer Gardener, and Bloom TV Network, as well as in The Turquoise Iris Journal and the University of Tennessee’s Cut Flower publication. She also writes a popular weekly blog that inspires readers to bring more beauty into their gardens and homes.

A sought-after speaker, Kara has presented at the Pick TN Conference, Women in Ag by UT Extension, and the Fleursociety Floral Design Summit. She also partners with leading garden and lifestyle brands to promote creativity, community, and the simple joy of growing flowers.

Robin Jennings Senior Brand Marketing Manager, Heirloom Roses

Session: Top 10 Roses to Grow in the PNW | Hood Room, 2/20/2026, 9:30am

Growing up in a major city in Canada, Robin Jennings had little interest in following in her grandfather’s farming footsteps... until a move to Oregon’s Willamette Valley and a vibrant backyard garden changed everything. Now she can be found among her roses whenever the sun is shining, and often when it’s not.

As Senior Brand Marketing Manager at Heirloom Roses in St. Paul, Oregon, Robin collaborates with hybridizers, rosarians, rose societies, and garden enthusiasts to celebrate the beauty of own-root roses and preserve heritage varieties. Over the past decade, she has combined her background in education with her love of communication to help grow several family- and women-owned businesses across the U.S.

Robin is passionate about learning, writing, and empowering gardeners to create beauty in any space. When not tending her garden, she enjoys traveling with her husband and three children, spending time with her labradoodle, and serving her community and church.

Jennifer Jewel Host of NPR's Cultivating Place, Author

Session 1: Estate Gardens: Legacy & Future | Adams Room, 2/19/2026 1:30pm

Session 2: Soil Stories: Regeneration & Reconnecting | Adams Room, 2/22/2026 1:30pm

Jennifer Jewell is the host of the national award-winning public radio program and podcast Cultivating Place: Conversations on Natural History and the Human Impulse to Garden and the Executive Director of the Cultivating Place Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding and elevating how we think and talk about gardening.

She is the author of three books, most recently What We Sow: On the Personal, Ecological, and Cultural Significance of Seeds (Timber Press, 2023). Her work centers on the empowerment of gardeners and the beauty and possibility found where people, place, and plants meet.

Jennifer and Cultivating Place have received multiple honors from Garden Communicators International and the American Horticultural Society. She lives and gardens in interior Northern California with her partner, plantsman John Whittlesey, and is currently producing a feature-length documentary inspired by Cultivating Place, set for release in 2027.

Geoffrey Johnson Seed Enthusiast, Founder of D.O.P.E.

Session: The Journey of 1000 Plants Begins With One Seed | DIY Stage, 2/22/2026, 1:30pm

A native of Savannah, Georgia, Geoffrey Johnson developed a deep-rooted passion for growing food at a young age. Fascinated by the joy of cultivating plants and the healing power of herbs, he has made it his life’s mission to share the beauty and benefits of gardening with others. An avid seed saver, Geoffrey never leaves home without a pack of seeds—because you never know when someone might want to plant something.

He is the founder of Depend On Planet Earth (D.O.P.E.), an initiative created to increase interest and activity in urban gardening. A self-taught gardener, Geoffrey has lent his creative hand and generous spirit to countless school and community gardens across the Savannah area.

Through his work, Geoffrey continues to inspire people of all ages to reconnect with the earth, celebrate the magic of seeds, and cultivate gardens that nourish both body and soul.

Rhonda Kaiser Author, Designer, Creator of Southern Home & Farm

Session 1: Container Showdown | Main Stage, 2/21/2026, 11:00am

Session 2: Vintage Farmhouse Style | Adams Room, 2/21/2026, 4:30pm

Rhonda Kaiser is a Texas-based author, designer, and creator of Southern Home & Farm, where she shares her love for gardening, vintage style, and outdoor living. A certified Texas Master Gardener and longtime advocate for accessible design, Rhonda inspires her audience to create spaces that are both beautiful and deeply personal.

Her work has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens, American Farmhouse Style, In Her Garden, and Garden Gate, as well as on Houston’s NBC affiliate program Houston Life, where she is a recurring guest expert. In 2023, she was recognized as a Better Homes & Gardens Stylemaker.

Rhonda’s new book, The Vintage Farmhouse Garden (Quarto, 2025), celebrates timeless design and the joy of cultivating beauty at home. She lives with her husband on their Texas farm, where her garden, greenhouse, and historic 1890s silo continue to inspire her creative work. Find her on Instagram @SouthernHomeandFarm.

Carissa Kasper Founder of Seed & Nourish

Session 1: Grow Exotic Ingredients at Home | Adams Room, 2/20/2026, 10:30am

Session 2: The Garden Party: How to Grow and Throw Extraordinary Garden Dinners | Hood Room, 2/21/2026, 12:00pm

Carissa Kasper is the founder of Seed & Nourish. This design studio creates raised-bed vegetable gardens, rooftop gardens, and bespoke seasonal containers, as well as full ecological and edible landscape transformations for residential and hospitality clients, including the Vancouver Fairmont Waterfront’s rooftop herb garden.

She believes in creating gardens that are beautiful, beneficial, resilient, and rooted in place. Through her work, Carissa cultivates spaces where people can connect with nature and the transformative process of growth. By helping others engage with the alchemy of a seed, she empowers gardeners to create thriving, meaningful landscapes that nourish both body and spirit.

Belinda Kelly Authors, Farmers, Founders of Simple Goodness Sisters

Sisters Belinda Kelly and Venise Cunningham are the farmer-bartender duo behind Simple Goodness Sisters, a farm-to-bar beverage company rooted at the base of Mount Rainier in Washington State. They are the authors of Drink Your Garden: Recipes, Stories, and Tips from the Simple Goodness Cocktail Farm (Countryman Press, 2025), a celebration of seasonal flavor and the joy of growing what you drink.

Through their farm, soda shop, and classes, Belinda and Venise share how to capture the pure, vibrant tastes of each season—transforming herbs, edible flowers, and produce into handcrafted beverages for a true “garden-to-glass” experience. Passionate about empowering others to Cocktail Garden, they offer simple, practical guidance for growing drink-worthy ingredients anywhere, from backyard beds to sunny windowsills. Together, they’re redefining what it means to raise a glass—connecting good drinks, good food, and good company back to the soil they came from.

Hailey Lampe Garden Coach, Founder of Cruising Climate

Session: Edible Landscaping in the PNW | Hood Room, 2/22/2026 12:00pm

Hailey Lampe is a regenerative garden coach and landscape designer, and the founder of Cruising Climate, a company dedicated to helping people grow more food, restore ecosystems, and create thriving backyard habitats. Through custom landscape designs and one-on-one coaching, she empowers homeowners, homesteaders, and small farmers to build resilient gardens rooted in ecological care.

Hailey also stewards The Hedgerow by Cruising Climate, a demonstration food forest and native plant nursery in Port Townsend, Washington. The site serves as a living classroom, where visitors can explore regenerative methods, learn about soil health, and see edible landscaping, pollinator habitats, and rain gardens in action.

Her work blends education, sustainability, and hands-on practice—helping others connect more deeply with their land while building beauty, biodiversity, and abundance.

Claire Lidell Hanna Award-winning Designer, Educator, Founder of Relish Gardens

Session 1: Container Showdown | Main Stage, 2/18/2026, 11:00am

Session 2: More Than Just a Pretty Space: Designing Gardens That Work for Your Life | Hood Room, 2/20/2026, 2:45pm

Claire Lidell Hanna is a garden designer, educator, and the founder of Relish Gardens, a Seattle-based business that designs and maintains gardens reflecting each client’s unique style and needs. Her practical, no-guilt approach to gardening empowers people to make confident decisions and trust their instincts.

A two-time Best in Show winner at the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival for her innovative show garden designs, Claire’s work is rooted in sustainable practices, four-season interest, and creative reuse of materials. She believes gardens should be both beautiful and deeply personal—spaces that evolve naturally and bring lasting joy.

Bethany Little Floral Designer, Farmer, Co-Owner of Charles Little & Co.

Session 1: Dried Floral Wreath Design | DIY Stage, 2/20/2026, 5:00pm

Session 2: Blooms & Bubbles: Designing with Dried Flowers [additional ticket required] | Main Stage, 2/21/2026, 2:30pm

Bethany Little, co-owner of Charles Little & Co. since 1998, has a background in floral design and horticulture. She is also a wreath-making maven who has popularized dried floral wreaths through her "365 Days of Wreaths" project on Instagram. Charles Little & Company provides seasonal floral materials year-round to wholesalers throughout the United States. By farming with passion and years of experience, Bethany and Charles bring customers gorgeous products with responsive, friendly, and direct service.

Meagan Lloyd Gardening Creator, Sustainable Living Advocate

Session: More Than Canning: Creative and Easy Ways to Preserve the Harvest | Adams Room, 2/22/2026, 12:00pm

Meagan, known online as @meggrowsplants, is a North Carolina–based gardening creator who inspires others to grow, preserve, and cook their own food. With a low-effort, ecosystem-based approach, she promotes gardening in harmony with nature, encouraging others to “garden like nature.” Her engaging content celebrates the beauty of balance—showing how thriving gardens can coexist with busy lives.

At home, Meagan’s lively backyard includes chickens, bees, and an ever-evolving mix of edible and ornamental plants. Through her approachable style and practical wisdom, she helps others cultivate abundance, sustainability, and joy right where they are.

Karla Lortz Owner of Heaths & Heathers, Heather Expert

Session: Heaths & Heathers: Color For All Seasons | Hood Room, 2/19/2026, 5:15pm

With nearly three decades of experience cultivating and promoting heathers, Karla has been a passionate advocate for these versatile and colorful plants. As the owner of Heaths & Heathers since 1995, she has introduced countless gardeners to the beauty and year-round interest these plants bring to the landscape.

A longtime participant in the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival for more than 20 years (and the San Francisco Garden Show for over a decade) Karla has created multiple display gardens. Karla has created award-winning exhibits for the Cascade Heather Society. And served as President of both the North American Heather Society and the Cascade Heather Society.

As an experienced speaker, Karla continues to share practical advice and design inspiration with garden clubs throughout the Pacific Northwest, helping gardeners discover how easy and rewarding heathers can be.

Jacques Lyakov Garden Hermit at Epic Gardening

Session 1: Container Showdown: Celebrity Edition | Main Stage, 2/20/2026, 1:00pm

Session 2: Soil Health Simplified with Epic Gardening | DIY Stage, 2/22/2026 11:45am

Jacques embarked on his gardening journey as a way to relax and find purpose outside of his PhD studies. He quickly discovered that reading up on growing food, watching videos, and turning gardening into a daily practice offered much more than he expected. During the first year, he was able to turn his backyard into a thriving ecosystem full of life and delicious produce. In the process of building his garden, he discovered that everything from the garden tasted so delicious and vibrant, which opened a whole new world of flavor that he knew he couldn't buy. The revelation of flavor he experienced from homegrown vegetables drove him to want to teach the world how to grow. Over the past 3 years, he has built up an audience of over half a million people, sharing what he has and continues to learn every day. By teaching people the how and why behind gardening practices, Jacques hopes to empower others to discover what he did — flavor!

Mary-Kate Mackey Award-winning Garden Writer, Educator

Session: Living Mulch: Choose the Best Groundcovers | Hood Room, 2/18/2026, 5:15pm

Mary-Kate Mackey is an award-winning garden writer, educator, and speaker based in Eugene, Oregon. She is the co-author of The Healthy Garden: Simple Steps for a Greener World (Abrams, 2021).

Her writing has appeared in Fine Gardening, Horticulture, Sunset, This Old House, and The American Gardener, where she’s known for her engaging, informative approach to garden storytelling. Mary-Kate has presented horticultural talks nationwide, inspiring audiences with her enthusiasm for sustainable gardening and practical design.

R. Theo Margelony Fuchsia Authority, Writer, Speaker

Session: Wake up Sleepy Heads! Overwintering Fuchsias in Pots & Containers | DIY Stage, 2/18/2026, 3:15pm

In 2019, R. Theo Margelony and his beloved Fuchsias in the City moved from a tiny 1/94th-acre garden in Manhattan to Portland, Oregon, where he now cultivates The Fuchsietum | A Garden in Portland. Today, he shares his passion for fuchsias - those diverse and dazzling classics - through talks, writing, and his ongoing journey of creating a new Pacific Northwest garden. Theo currently serves as President of the Oregon Fuchsia Society.

His essays on fuchsias appear regularly in publications including the Bulletin of the British Fuchsia Society, The Fuchsia Flash, and the Bulletin of the Société Nationale d’Horticulture de France. A frequent speaker, Theo was a keynote guest for the British Fuchsia Society’s 80th-anniversary celebration at RHS Malvern and has presented at the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival in 2023, 2024, and 2025.

Before relocating west, Theo worked at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where his twin passions for heraldry and horticulture intertwined. His blog, The Fuchsietum.com, chronicles his continuing adventures with fuchsias and other botanical obsessions.

John R McCallen Ecologist, Garden Designer

Session: Succession in the Garden | Adams Room, 2/20/2026, 12:00pm

John is a lifelong gardener with a deep passion for biodiversity and the intricate relationships between plants, animals, and people. He holds a degree in biology from Stanford University, where he focused on ecology and evolution, and brings that scientific understanding to every garden he creates.

Designing species-rich West Coast gardens in zones eight through ten, John emphasizes living landscapes that nurture wildlife while offering beauty and connection for those who inhabit them. His work blends ecological insight with artistry, creating outdoor spaces that thrive as dynamic, interdependent ecosystems.

Colin McCrate Author, Founder of Seattle Urban Farm Company

Session: Vertical Gardening with Strings | Rainier Room, 2/22/2026, 11:30am

Colin McCrate is the founder of Seattle Urban Farm Company and the author of two books: Food Grown Right, In Your Backyard (Mountaineers Books, 2012) and Grow More Food (Storey Publishing, 2020). With more than twenty years of experience growing food organically, Colin has guided hundreds of urban farmers through the design, construction, and management of their own edible landscapes.

Through his work, Colin demonstrates how sustainable urban agriculture can promote healthy diets, environmental stewardship, stronger communities, and an improved quality of life. His approach combines practical expertise with a passion for helping others cultivate productive, resilient gardens—whether on a balcony, in a backyard, or across a city block.

Ryan McEnaney Fifth-Generation Nurseryman

Session: Container Showdown | Main Stage, 2/19/2026, 1:00pm

Ryan is a fifth-generation family member at Bailey Nurseries and a dynamic voice in modern horticulture. He recently spearheaded a takeover of Times Square in New York City for the First Editions® brand, brought Endless Summer® Hydrangeas to the GRAMMYs, and transformed a popular SoHo restaurant into the most flower-filled creator event of the summer.

Drawing from his deep family roots in one of the nation’s largest producers of trees and shrubs, Ryan brings both tradition and innovation to everything he does. His approachable, high-energy style makes gardening accessible and inspiring for audiences of all experience levels.

Ryan is the author of Outside Style (Cool Springs Press, 2023) and a frequent media contributor, where he shares his passion for plants, design, and outdoor living. He lives and gardens in Minnesota.

Jen McGuinness Award-winning Journalist and Author

Session: Bird-Friendly Gardening: How to Make Your Garden Attractive to Birds | Adams Room, 2/19/2026, 4:30pm

Jen McGuinness is the voice behind Frau Zinnie (FrauZinnie.com), a long-running garden blog she founded in 2011. Based in Connecticut, she documents her evolving garden through the seasons and promotes organic, wildlife-friendly practices that support both beauty and biodiversity.

She is the author of two books from Cool Springs Press: Micro Food Gardening (2021), which explores creative ways to grow edibles in small spaces, and Bird-Friendly Gardening (2024), a guide to designing gardens that nurture birds year-round. Bird-Friendly Gardening won the Silver Laurel Media Award in the General Readership category by GardenComm: Garden Communicators International in 2025.

In addition to her work as a garden writer and photographer, Jen is an award-winning journalist with a background in journalism, nonprofit, and corporate communications.

Evan Meyer President and CEO, Bloedel Reserve

Session: If A Tree Falls, Leave It! | Rainier Room, 2/20/2026, 10:00am

Evan Meyer is President and CEO of the Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island, where he leads one of the Pacific Northwest’s most celebrated public gardens. Before joining Bloedel, he served as Executive Director of the Theodore Payne Foundation, a nonprofit native plant nursery and educational center in Los Angeles.

Earlier in his career, Evan held positions at UCLA Botanical Garden, California Botanic Garden, Harvard University Herbaria, the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, and the Native Plant Trust. His extensive experience spans horticulture, conservation, and education.

Evan’s professional interests lie in the intersections between the cultural and natural worlds... where art, ecology, and human experience meet to shape how we understand and care for landscapes.

David Mizejewski Naturalist, Author, Television Personality

Session: Pollinators and Food Gardens: A Community Connection | Rainier Room, 2/20/2026, 1:00pm

David Mizejewski is a naturalist, author, and television presenter with the National Wildlife Federation. He holds a degree in Human and Natural Ecology from Emory University and has hosted television series on both Animal Planet and NatGeo WILD.

Dedicated to helping people understand and protect the natural world, David focuses on restoring wildlife habitat in the places where people live, work, and play. His bestselling garden how-to book, Attracting Birds, Butterflies, and Other Backyard Wildlife (National Wildlife Federation, 2019), inspires readers to transform their outdoor spaces into thriving ecosystems that support biodiversity.

David combines science-based knowledge with an engaging communication style that has made him a trusted voice for wildlife and conservation. Through his writing, media appearances, and public outreach, he continues to share the message that even small actions can make a big difference for the planet.

Dee Montpetit Garden Designer, Founder of Ma Petite Gardens

Session: Container Showdown | Main Stage, 2/22/2026, 11:00am

Dee Montpetit began her career in the garden industry in 2006 and spent many years as a sales representative for Aw Pottery before launching her own design business, Ma Petite Gardens, in 2015. She specializes in maximizing each garden’s potential and creating beautiful outdoor spaces that are low-maintenance and reflect the owner’s personal style.

In addition to her design work, Dee draws on her first career as a travel agent to combine her love of gardening with her passion for exploration. Through Ma Petite Garden Tours, she creates and leads small-group garden adventures around the world, offering travelers an opportunity to experience diverse landscapes, plants, and garden traditions firsthand.

Whether she’s designing a tranquil backyard retreat or curating a global garden journey, Dee’s work reflects her belief that gardens—like travel—are about discovery, connection, and beauty.

Ciscoe Morris Author, Media Personality, National Treasure

Session 1: My Plant is Better Than Your Plant! | Rainier Room, 2/18/2026, 11:30am

Session 2: Traveler's Tea: Gardens of Japan: Tradition and Tranquility [additional ticket required] | 2/19/2026, 3:30pm

Ciscoe Morris is a well-known gardening personality in the Pacific Northwest. He is featured regularly on KING 5’s New Day Northwest, KING 5 News, and Evening. His radio show, Gardening with Ciscoe, airs on KSQM every Saturday at 9 a.m.

After writing a newspaper column for many years—first for the Seattle Post-Intelligencer and later for The Seattle Times—he stepped away to focus on his newest book, Oh, La La! (Sasquatch Books, 2020). On average, Ciscoe gives more than fifty garden presentations each year. He is also one of only two people who have spoken at the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival every year since its inception.

In addition to earning numerous environmental awards for his work at Seattle University, Ciscoe was recently honored with the prestigious B.Y. Morrison Communications Award from the American Horticultural Society. He can often be found working in his Northeast Seattle garden—which has been featured in several publications—or leading garden tours around the world.

Anza A Muenchow Educator, Farmer, Garden Community Advocate

Session: All About Seeds | DIY Stage, 2/19/2026, 10:15am

Successful gardens begin with understanding seeds—their structure, timing, and potential. In this session, attendees will learn the fundamentals of seed anatomy and explore practical techniques for starting seeds both indoors and outdoors. From mastering the right timing to planning for early and late season crops, participants will gain strategies used by skilled growers to extend harvests and improve yields. Whether nurturing a few trays on a windowsill or preparing beds in the garden, this session offers the knowledge and confidence to start strong - and grow successfully - from seed to harvest.

Charlie Nardozzi Author, Emmy Winning TV Personality

Session1: The Continuous Vegetable Garden | Rainier Room, 2/21/2026, 11:30am

Session 2: Prune Like the Pros | DIY Stage, 2/21/2026, 3:15pm

Charlie Nardozzi is a Regional Emmy® award winning, nationally recognized garden writer, speaker, radio, and television personality. He has worked for more than 35 years bringing expert gardening information to home gardeners through radio, television, talks, tours, on-line, and the printed page. Charlie delights in making gardening information simple, easy, fun and accessible to everyone.

Charlie’s energy, exuberance, and love of the natural world makes him an exciting public speaker and presenter. He has spoken at national venues such as the Northwest Flower Show, Philadelphia Flower Show, San Francisco Flower & Garden Show, Master Gardener conferences in locations such as Arizona and Michigan, trade shows in Idaho and St.Louis, and garden club meetings from Maine to Florida. If can’t hear him speak in person, consider attending one of his webinars or visit his website gardeningwithcharlie.com for free post, podcasts and videos.

Charlie has two gardening radio shows in New England and a TV Gardening Segment on the CBS affiliate in Vermont. He's authored 8 gardening books including the latest in 2026, The Continuous Vegetable Garden (Quarto-Cool Springs Press). Charlie also leads garden tours to UK and Europe.

Charlie's talk is sponsored by Velcro.com

Larry Opperman Radio Host, Master Gardener, Educator

Session: Gardening in Alaska’s Zone 4: Cultivating Success on the Kenai Peninsula | Hood Room, 2/19/2026, 4:00pm

Larry Opperman has been gardening for nearly 65 years, from large family plots in the Midwest to container gardens on porches and balconies. Originally from Illinois and Missouri, he moved to Alaska in 1991 and has spent the past three decades cultivating food and community in the challenging but rewarding climate of Southcentral Alaska.

A certified Master Gardener through the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Larry is a member and former board director of the Central Peninsula Garden Club, as well as a past member of the local Soil & Water Conservation District board.

He also hosts Growing a Greener Kenai, a twice-monthly radio program on Alaska’s NPR station KDLL, now in its fourth season. The show features local and national gardening experts and focuses on providing accurate, practical advice for gardeners in zones 4a and 4b.

Scott Pessarra Farmer, Educator, Founder of Mindful Farmer

Session: Organic Farmer Techniques for Thriving Backyard Gardens | Hood Room, 2/22/2026, 1:15pm

Sean Pessarra is the founder and owner of Mindful Farmer, a farm and garden supply company based in Central Arkansas. Mindful Farmer designs and manufactures high tunnels and tools for growers, as well as blends and curates premium organic potting mixes and fertilizers.

An ecologist-turned-sustainable farmer, Sean has spent more than a decade advancing organic and regenerative agriculture. He has operated a large-scale organic farm, trained farmers across the country, and launched multiple agricultural enterprises producing cut flowers, vegetables, honey, and value-added products. His work bridges science and soil, helping growers cultivate abundance with intention and care.

Christina Pfeiffer Horticulture Educator, Author, ISA Certified Arborist

Session: Pruning Shrubs, Simplified! | DIY Stage, 2/18/2026, 11:45am

Christina Pfeiffer is a Seattle-based horticulture educator who has enjoyed a long and distinguished career in landscape horticulture. Tuned to both the art and science of the field, her work centers on sustainable techniques and seasonal timing that align with the natural rhythms of the garden.

She is the co-author, with Mary Robson, of Pacific Northwest Month-by-Month Gardening (Cool Springs Press, 2017) and a frequent speaker for Master Gardener programs, the University of Washington Botanic Gardens, and PlantAmnesty. Christina also taught pruning at Edmonds College for twenty years, sharing her practical, experience-based approach with generations of students and professionals.

Holding degrees in horticulture from Michigan State University and the University of Washington, Christina is also an ISA Certified Arborist®. Reflecting on her decades in the field, she notes, “At this stage of my life, I remain humbled by the processes of nature and how much I am still learning about how to garden well.”

Debra K Prinzing Writer, Speaker, Founder of Slow Flowers Society

Session: Garden Like a Flower Farmer | Hood Room, 2/19/2026, 12:00pm

Debra Prinzing is a Seattle-based writer, speaker, and leading advocate for domestic, local, and seasonal flowers. Through her many Slow Flowers–branded projects, she has convened a national conversation inspiring both consumers and professionals to make conscious choices about their floral purchases.

She is the producer of SlowFlowers.com, the online directory of American-grown farms, florists, shops, and studios that supply domestic blooms. Each Wednesday, approximately 2,500 listeners tune into the Slow Flowers Podcast, available on the Slow Flowers YouTube channel and as a free download on major podcast platforms. Debra is also the editorial director and co-founder, with Robin Avni, of BLOOM Imprint - a boutique publisher that develops creative book ideas by and about members of the Slow Flowers Movement.

In recognition of her work, Debra has received numerous honors, including the American Horticultural Society’s Frances Jones Poetker Award for floral leadership and the Seattle Wholesale Growers Market’s Growers Choice Award. The author of more than 12 books, including Slow Flowers, The 50 Mile Bouquet, and Where We Bloom, her newest title, The Flower Farmers (Abrams, 2025), celebrates the people and passion behind the local flower renaissance.

Debby G Purser Tribal Liaison at Heronswood Garden

Session: Native or Not: Should We Be growing Non-native plants? A Heronswood Perspective | Rainier Room, 2/19/2026, 11:30am

An enrolled Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribal member, Debby Purser was born and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. She joined the Heronswood family in 2016, where she quickly fell in love with the garden and its plants.

During her time at Heronswood, Debby became the Volunteer Coordinator and helped grow the beloved Haunted Heronswood event to include tribal stories told through sculptures and botanical materials. She also designed the S’Klallam Connections Garden, created to teach tribal members about culturally significant plants and their importance in tradition and daily life.

Now serving as Tribal Liaison, Debby combines her love of plants with her cultural heritage, sharing Indigenous knowledge and perspective with the broader community. Through her work, she continues to strengthen the bond between the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, Heronswood Garden, and the living landscape that connects them.

Rebecca S Raymond Internationally Accredited Floral Designer and Educator

Session: Beautiful Edible Centerpieces | DIY Stage, 2/21/2026, 10:15am

Rebecca Raymond, EMC, IMF, is an internationally accredited floral designer known for her energetic teaching style and passion for sharing the art of floral design. With more than 30 years in the floral industry, she brings a spirit of discovery and connection to everything she creates.

Rebecca travels the globe leading workshops and demonstrations that inspire both professionals and enthusiasts to explore new forms of floral artistry. Her work reflects a deep respect for craftsmanship and community... core values that guide her creative approach.

She lives on Vashon Island, Washington, where the beaches, woodlands, and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest provide endless inspiration.

Nobuko Relnick Ikebana Artist and Expert

Session: The Art of Ikebana: Beauty in Balance | DIY Stage, 2/19/2026, 11:45am

Nobuko has been a teacher of the Sogetsu School of IKEBANA, Japanese flower arrangement, for over 30 years. Since moving from Japan to Seattle 1998, she has actively promoted ikebana at museums, schools, community centers, and many other places.

Ikebana helps awareness. As people observe plant materials they become very close to nature. For hundreds of years it has been a part of Japanese culture - similar to Bonsai, Chado and Martial Arts. Since Japan opened the country in 1853 the world has realized how wonderful these cultural treasures are. Nobuko mission is to spread this vibrant cultural legacy outside of Japan.

Chia-Ming Ro Garden Designer, Founder of Coastal Homestead

Session: The Modern Potager: Blending Food, Flowers & Function | Adams Room, 2/21/2026, 12:00pm

Chia-Ming Ro is a garden designer, educator, and content creator who specializes in kitchen and cut flower gardens. Through her platform, Coastal Homestead, she shares stories and practical guidance that inspire others to grow with purpose and style.

Her work blends design and cultivation, encouraging gardeners to create spaces that are both beautiful and productive. With a focus on intention and creativity, Chia-Ming helps people connect more deeply to their gardens—and to the joy of growing something uniquely their own.

Stephanie Rose Award-winning Author, Master Gardener, Permaculture Designer

Session 1: Garden Alchemy: Transforming Your Garden with Nature’s Wisdom | Rainier Room, 2/20/2026, 2:30pm

Session 2: The Wild & Free Garden: Zero Cost, Infinite Value | Rainier Room, 2/21/2026, 1:00pm

Stephanie Rose is an award-winning author, master gardener, permaculture designer, herbalist, and wellness advocate. After facing a debilitating illness, she found solace and healing through gardening, which led her to create Garden Therapy (gardentherapy.ca), a popular website inspiring millions to garden for wellness and joy.

The author of thirteen books, she has written extensively on organic gardening, natural healing, and creativity in the garden. Her upcoming title, The Wild and Free Garden (Cool Springs Press, 2026), encourages readers to trust their instincts, share resources, and let imagination flourish outdoors.

Based in Vancouver, BC, Stephanie continues to write, garden organically, and explore the intersection of nature, healing, and art. She shares her home with her child, dog, cat, and 500 worms—all part of her thriving, regenerative ecosystem.

Nita-Jo Rountree Garden Designer, Educator, Garden Celebrity

Patrick R Ryan Garden Writer, Educator, Alaska Master Gardener

Session: Rock Solid: DIY Hypertufa Vessels|DIY Stage, 2/18/2026, 5:00pm

Patrick Ryan is a garden writer, Alaska Master Gardener, and Education Specialist at the Alaska Botanical Garden, where he has worked for 20 years. A retired elementary school teacher, Patrick combines his passion for horticulture and education in every talk he gives.

Trained as a Junior Master Gardener Specialist at Texas A&M University, he founded a summer camp program in Anchorage in 2004 that continues to inspire young gardeners today. Over the years, he has presented engaging and practical horticultural talks to audiences across the country, sharing knowledge with gardeners, educators, and the next generation of plant lovers alike.

Patrick believes that everyone who plants a seed is connected to a miracle... a philosophy that guides his life and work.

Teresa H Sabankaya Author, Floral Designer, Slow Flowers Advocate

Session 1: Day-to-Day Floriography | DIY Stage, 2/18/2026, 10:15am

Session 2: Blooms & Bubbles: Designing With Helebores [additional ticket required] | Main Stage, 2/19/2026, 2:30pm

Teresa Sabankaya is the author of Modern Floriography: Flowers, Gardens, and Gifts Inspired by the Language & Symbolism of Flowers (The Countryman Press, 2026) and the author of previous works exploring the beauty and meaning of flowers. Based in Santa Cruz, California, her floral studio—formerly known as Bonny Doon Garden Company—has been at the heart of the Slow Flowers® movement since 1999.

Teresa’s signature “Posies,” garden-inspired bouquets that tell a story through the language of flowers, have been featured in numerous publications and adored by clients nationwide. Her designs blend storytelling, horticultural artistry, and sentiment, creating meaningful connections between people and plants.

A sought-after speaker and demonstrator, Teresa presents at venues across the country, sharing the history and symbolism of flowers while inspiring audiences to craft their own expressive, garden-grown bouquets.

Jessica Scovel Houseplant Expert, Owner of Buds Interior Plant Design

Session: Mounting Epiphytic Plants | DIY Stage, 2/19/2026, 5:00pm

Jessica Scovel is the owner of Buds Interior Plant Design, a Seattle-based business where she blends her love of houseplants with an eye for interior design to create thriving, stylish indoor spaces. She and her team specialize in pairing plants with each client’s aesthetic, lifestyle, and lighting conditions, ensuring long-term success and lush, living decor that enhances any environment.

Through Buds, the team also hosts interactive make-and-take workshops, including the popular Sip & Soil events, which invite plant lovers to connect, learn, and grow together. Her mission is to help turn every “brown thumb” green—making plant care approachable, educational, and fun while fostering a sense of community among fellow houseplant enthusiasts.

Lindsay Sisti Author, Aroid Hybridizer, Owner of All the Plant Babies

Session 1: Advanced Houseplant Propagation | DIY Stage, 2/20/2026, 3:15pm

Session 2: Trending Houseplant Propagation Techniques | Main Stage, 2/22/2026, 4:00pm

Lindsay Sisti, known to her thousands of followers as @alltheplantbabies, is a houseplant entrepreneur, shop owner, and hybridizer whose mission is to help people appreciate nature from within their own homes... and have fun doing it. Her specialties include growing rare tropical houseplants, propagation, and hybridization.

Lindsay holds a patent on a new species of Alocasia and has developed more than 15 unique Anthurium and Alocasia hybrids. Her book, The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation (Cool Springs Press, 2024), blends science with humor, making complex information accessible to both beginner and advanced plant enthusiasts.

Daniel Sparler Writer, Educator, NHS Board Member

Session: Plants and Their People: Don't Maim the Name! | Hood Room, 2/18/2026, 2:45pm

Daniel thought he had left gardening behind when he moved to Seattle from agrarian Arkansas in 1981. Eleven years later, after acquiring a mid-century modern home surrounded by a neglected lot, he succumbed to “floral and foliar fever”—which soon evolved into a full-blown case of CPC: Compulsive Plant Collecting.

Together with his husband, Jeffrey, Daniel transformed that once-overgrown space into a much-photographed and widely published garden brimming with thousands of distinct taxa from around the world. Now in his second term on the board of the Northwest Horticultural Society, he writes the monthly column Horticulturally Yours: Plunging into Plantlife and teaches botanical Latin for NHS and other horticultural organizations.

When he’s not knee-deep in compost, Daniel enjoys reading Spanish literature, cooking vegan meals, and visiting exceptional botanical gardens around the world. His work reflects both curiosity and joy in the endless diversity of the plant kingdom.

Richie Steffen Executive Director, Elisabeth C. Miller Botanical Garden

Session 1: Great Plant Picks - Water Wise Wonders: Drought-tolerant Plants for PNW Gardens | Main Stage, 2/18/2026, 1:00pm

Session 2: Container Showdown | Main Stage, 2/19/2026, 11:00am

Session 3: I Love Ferns and You Should Too! | Rainier Room, 2/20/2026, 4:00pm

Few people share a deeper passion for plants or a greater excitement for gardening than Richie Steffen. As Executive Director of the Elisabeth C. Miller Botanical Garden, he oversees the development of the garden, its programs, and its renowned rare plant collections.

Richie brings forty years of horticultural experience, including twenty-five at the Miller Garden. While woodland plants—especially ferns—are his specialty, his expertise spans a wide range of plant groups informed by his travels throughout Europe, Japan, Chile, New Zealand, Costa Rica, and across the United States.

An active leader in the gardening community, Richie is past president of both the Hardy Fern Foundation and the Northwest Horticultural Society. A noted lecturer, writer, and photographer, he is also the co-author of The Plant Lover’s Guide to Ferns (Timber Press, 2015), written with his longtime friend and fern mentor, Sue Olsen.

Doug Tallamy T. A. Baker Professor of Agriculture, University of Delaware

Session 1: Are “Alien” Plants “Bad”? | Rainier Room, 2/21/2026, 10:00am

Session 2: Interview with Doug Tallamy: Saving Nature at Home | Adams Room, 2/21/2026, 1:30pm

Session 3: Next Steps for Nature: Questions (and Answers) for How to Save Nature in Our Yards | Rainier Room, 2/22/2026, 10:00am

Doug Tallamy is the T. A. Baker Professor of Agriculture in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware, where he has authored more than 100 research publications and taught insect-related courses for over four decades. His research explores how insect–plant interactions shape the diversity and health of entire ecosystems.

He is the author of Bringing Nature Home (Timber Press, 2007), The Living Landscape (with Rick Darke, 2014), Nature’s Best Hope (2020), and The Nature of Oaks (2021), all of which have inspired a nationwide movement toward more ecologically responsible gardening. His newest book, How Can I Help? Saving Nature with Your Yard, empowers readers to restore biodiversity at home through simple, practical steps that make a measurable difference.

Tallamy’s work has earned recognition from the Garden Writers Association, Audubon, the National Wildlife Federation, the Garden Club of America, and the American Horticultural Association. He and his wife, Cindy, live on their restored property in Oxford, Pennsylvania, where their research—and passion—continue to take root.

Allen Taylor Master Arborist, Educator, Owner Conservation Tree Care

Session: Care and Management of Happy Fruit Trees | DIY Stage, 2/22/2026, 3:15pm

Allen discovered his passion for trees while studying forestry at the University of Vermont, where he earned his BS degree. After a short stint in traditional forestry, the jagged peaks and glaciers of the Pacific Northwest called him westward. Fifteen years ago, he began a career in arboriculture that combined his love of trees with his enthusiasm for climbing and the outdoors.

Allen is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, holds the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification, and is a Registered Consulting Arborist with the American Society of Consulting Arborists. As the owner of Conservation Tree Care, he focuses on preserving and caring for trees through science-based practices and thoughtful management. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to understanding, protecting, and celebrating the living structures that define our landscapes.

Kossi Tchenawou Plant Daddy, Creator, Growth Coach

Session 1: Houseplant Hints from the Plant Daddy | Main Stage, 2/20/2026, 4:00pm

Session 2: House of Plants | 2/21/2026,11:30, 1pm, 3pm

Kossi - known online as Plant Daddy Koss - is a houseplant creator who mixes humor, heart, and a whole lot of greenery to show how caring for plants can help you care for yourself. With a background in real estate and brand development, he discovered that watering, pruning, and repotting weren’t just chores... they were lessons in patience, growth, and self-compassion.

Today, Kossi brings his playful energy to workshops and social media, inspiring plant lovers everywhere to embrace the joy (and the occasional chaos) of growing something green. His motto? Growth always starts with what you choose to nurture.

Bill Thorness Author, Educator, Master Gardener

Session: Early Season Edibles: Jump Into an Abundant Year | Hood Room, 2/18/2026, 1:15pm

Bill Thorness is a writer and gardener who has been cultivating both crafts in Seattle since the mid-1980s. A longtime King County Master Gardener, he has shared his passion for edible gardening through decades of teaching, writing, and hands-on experience in the Pacific Northwest.

Bill is the author of two books, Cool Season Gardener: Extend the Harvest, Plan Ahead, and Grow Vegetables Year Round (Skipstone Press, 2013) and Edible Heirlooms: Heritage Vegetables for the Maritime Garden (Skipstone Press, 2009). His writing has also appeared in many regional publications, including The Seattle Times.

With a focus on seasonal abundance and sustainable practices, Bill continues to inspire home gardeners to plan ahead, grow more, and enjoy the rewards of year-round gardening in the maritime PNW climate.

Frances Tophill TV Presenter, Author, Educator

Session 1: TBD | Rainier Room, 2/18/2026, 10:00am

Session 2: TBD | Rainier Room, 2/19/2026 1:00pm

Frances Tophill is a British horticulturist, landscape designer, and television presenter celebrated for her work on BBC’s Gardeners’ World and ITV’s Love Your Garden. A graduate of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, she holds a degree in Horticulture with Plantmanship and brings both expertise and warmth to her teaching and on-screen work.

She currently serves as Head Gardener and Grower at the Sharpham Trust, where she focuses on sustainable growing practices and community engagement. Frances also works with the Royal Horticultural Society’s Campaign for School Gardening, inspiring young people to connect with nature through hands-on learning.

An accomplished author, Frances has written several books, most recently A Year in a Small Garden (BBC Books, 2022), which encourages gardeners of all levels to create beauty and biodiversity in any space.

Lloyd Traven Plantsman, Owner Peace Tree Farm

Session: Planting Awesome Every Day | Hood Room, 2/19/2026, 1:15pm

President-Peace Tree Farm, founded 1983 with his wife, Candy, now a second generation with son, Alex. Renowned Plant Breeder, introduced The Phenomenal® Family of Lavenders®, revolutionizing the production of lavender world- wide, as well as Fignomenal®, a dwarf fig that produces and ripens in norther areas.

M.S. Degree Cornell University. National Grower of the Year, 2005. Appeared live on Martha Stewart 4 times. Primary forcing company for the Philadelphia Flower Show, grows for major botanical gardens across North America. Created the Garden Geek® Collection of unusual and unique plants for retailers, Bee-Loved Plants® for pollinators, and Peace Tree Organics®. In- demand international public speaker, and Board Member for several major groups in Horticulture and Sustainable Agriculture. Received the Horticulture Industry Leadership and Innovation Award, 2021. USDA Certified Organic Grower, utilizing 100% biocontrols since 2000, recognized internationally for the breadth and sophistication of their program. Professor and Lecturer Temple University, Delaware Valley University, Cornell University and major conferences world-wide.

Mark Turner Photographer, Author, Native Plant Expert

Session: 50 Shades of Green | Hood Room, 2/18/2026, 10:45am

Mark Turner is a professional photographer and author specializing in gardens and native plants. Since founding Turner Photographics in 1993, he has photographed for books, magazines, and commercial clients across the Pacific Northwest. His images have appeared in Sunset, Garden Design, Birds & Blooms, American Gardener, Horticulture, and This Old House.

The author of three books, most recently Weeds of the Pacific Northwest (Timber Press, 2024), Mark is known for capturing the rich botanical diversity of the western landscape. His work has also appeared in publications from Cool Springs Press, Rodale, and Meredith.

Active in the plant and photography communities, Mark is past president of the Koma Kulshan chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society and a member of the Association of Garden Communicators and Professional Photographers of America. He has taught photography at the North Cascades Institute, Whatcom Community College, and other Northwest locations.

Mary Marshall & Andrew Tuttle Educators, Designers, Edge Perma & Redtail Edge Design Co-founders

Session 1: Virtual Garden Tours: Edible and Ecological Landscapes of the PNW | Adams Room, 2/18/2026, 3:00pm

Session 2: Designing Regenerative Homesteads & Urban Farms | Hood Room, 2/22/2026, 10:45am

Andrew Tuttle and Mary Marshall are the cofounders of Edge Perma and Redtail Edge Design, instructors at Edmonds College, and land stewards of Pragtree Farm—the birthplace of the Tilth movement. With backgrounds in horticulture, ecological design, and regenerative agriculture, they create immersive educational experiences that empower gardeners, growers, and landscape professionals to design resilient, biodiverse systems.

At the heart of their work is a commitment to blending beauty with function. Andrew and Mary guide others in cultivating thriving gardens, farms, and community spaces that support both people and the planet. Through teaching, design, and hands-on stewardship, they continue to advance the practice of regenerative living—helping others reconnect with the land and design spaces that sustain life in all its forms.

Sarah Wagstaff Flower Farmer, Educator, Owner of SUOT Farm

Session: Hugelkultur Gardening in the PNW | Rainier Room, 2/19/2026, 5:30pm

Sarah Wagstaff is the owner of SUOT Farm, a no-till urban flower farm in Skagit Valley, Washington. Her vibrant space features hugelkultur cutting gardens, a seasonal farmstand, a retail flower shop, and an educational workshop venue... all rooted in sustainable, community-centered growing practices.

SUOT stands for Small Units Of Time, a reflection of Sarah’s belief that connection to the earth is built through small, intentional acts of stewardship: day by day, season by season. Dedicated to honoring natural cycles, she provides 100% Washington-grown flowers and foliage while inspiring others to find meaning and beauty in local, seasonal abundance.

Cory Webster Floral Designer, Instructor, Slow Flower Advocate

Session: Blooms & Bubbles: Designing with Roses [additional ticket required] | Main Stage, 2/18/2026, 2:30pm

Cory Webster is a seasoned floral designer and instructor with more than ten years of hands-on experience across every corner of the floral industry. As the Market Floor Supervisor at the Seattle Wholesale Growers Market, she brings a well-rounded perspective shaped by years of work in grocery floral departments, boutique shops, weddings, greenhouses, and wholesale operations.

Cory’s designs celebrate sustainability, regional beauty, and the rhythm of the seasons. Her passion lies in using locally sourced blooms and greenery to create floral art that reflects both place and purpose. Dedicated to teaching and mentoring others, she shares her knowledge generously—helping floral professionals and enthusiasts alike discover the joy of working with seasonal flowers.

Matt Williams Plant & Soil Scientist, Educator, Researcher

Session: Demystifying Soil Testing: Turning Numbers Into Knowledge | Hood Room, 2/22/2026, 2:45pm

Matt Williams is a plant and soil scientist, educator, and Chief Scientific Officer at Predictive Nutrient Solutions. Based in southeast Washington, he and his wife steward a 10-acre property filled with gardens, wildlife habitats, and native plantings that reflect his passion for healthy soils and sustainable land management.

With more than 16 years in higher education, Matt has taught Plant and Soil Science at Washington State University and Walla Walla Community College, where he also served as Chair of the Agriculture Department. His academic expertise is grounded in real-world experience as an agronomist and Director of Research & Development, roles that keep him closely connected to evolving industry practices.

Now focused on public education, Matt shares his soil science insights through his popular YouTube channel, SoiLab, and frequent presentations for Master Gardeners, conservation districts, and community events. Known for his clear, approachable teaching style, he brings enthusiasm and practicality to every audience. Matt holds M.S. and B.S. degrees in Crop Science from Washington State University and an A.A.S. in Turfgrass Management from Walla Walla Community College.

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