From San Diego to Seattle – 4 garden events not to miss!

Winter is one of my favorite times of the year in the garden.  Why?  Because I’m tired!  And now that my garden has come to a screeching halt I can finally sit down and catch my breath.  But it seems no sooner than I take a load off, that I’m anxious to get back outside again.  Luckily, living on the West coast, I can usually do some sort of gardening throughout the year, even if it means strolling outside every few days to see if I can find a camellia blooming somewhere.  Even so, I start to grow weary of winter and I long for the first signs of spring.

To help you take advantage of your garden’s downtime, here are four of my favorite events that will provide endless inspiration and education so you can kickstart your garden once spring arrives.

The first event is coming up in a few weeks, Seattle’s Northwest Flower and Garden Show (February 8-12).  This will be my second year speaking at this show, and I’m SO looking forward to it as it’s one of my very favorite shows of all.  My topic this year is ‘Taking your garden to the next level” where I’ll be discussing creative ways to introduce harmony  back into your garden. But even if you can’t attend my presentation, there are tons of fantastic  seminars this year (they’re listed here), 26 incredible display gardens (see a few of last year’s favorites here) and over 300 exhibitors with every type of product you could ever want for your garden. Did you know the Northwest Flower and Garden Show is ranked #3 in the WORLD, and #2 in the country?  Definitely not one to miss!

The next event is the Outdoor Living Extravaganza, in San Diego (March 3rd). This is a one-day event where you’ll learn tips and techniques for growing the latest plant varieties, bring out the designer in you by learning how to create exciting color combinations, become inspired to create exceptional containers and much, much more.

One of the unique things about this event is it’s size.  It’s limited to 3oo participants which means it’s a much more intimate venue, allowing you more one-on-one time with amazing speakers like P.Allen Smith, Shirley Bovshow, John Gaydos and Stacey Hirvela.  Seriously – when’s the last time you had the chance to spend the afternoon with P. Allen Smith without hordes of people all vying for his attention!?  And the other great thing about this event?  It’s at the Hotel Del Coronado, one of the most beautiful Victorian hotels that dot the Pacific coastline.

And finally, the San Francisco Flower and Garden Show (March 21-25).  Located in my backyard, here in Northern California, this show has always held a special place in my heart.  This year the show has an impressive lineup of celebrities, such as Ahmad Hassan from DIY Yard Crashers, Joe Lamp’l from Growing a Greener World, and the always entertaining Martin Yan. With over 20 show gardens (see a few of past years’ favorites here), exhibitors galore, and a week full of seminars, this show is the perfect way to usher in spring.  

And last but not least is a fantastic (and free) event you can attend in the comfort of your own home!

Corona Tools is hosting the first annual Growers Success Summit, a 2-week series of webinars beginning February 16th.  Filled with topics ranging from water conservation, to proper pruning techniques, to the many aspects of vertical gardening (yes, that’ll be my presentation on Feb. 29th at 2:15!) this event promises to educate and entertain gardeners across the nation.

But don’t wait too long to register – spaces are limited!  Oh, and did I mention there will be prizes? Yes, a fantastic giveaway (or two!) will be offered at the end so stay tuned for details.

So there you have it – plenty of ways you can beat the winter blahs.  And if you’re attending, make sure to let me know – I’d love to say ‘hi’!