ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES

Auburn, June 4---Greenhouse growers and others interested in greenhouse management should mark their calendars for the Southeast Greenhouse Conference and Trade Show, June 16-19 at the Palmetto Expo Center in Greenville, South Carolina.

Sponsored by greenhouse-grower associations and their respective Cooperative Extension faculties in seven Southern states, the show is considered one of the best educational opportunities for greenhouse management.

This year’s program features a sequel to "Getting Started in the Greenhouse Business." In addition, “Greenhouse Management, Part II” will involve an intensive, day-long program on the business fundamentals of operating a greenhouse.  Featured topics include marketing greenhouse products, cut-flower production, cost accounting and propagation of bedding plants and perennials. Two pesticide re-certification credits also will be available to attendees.

Designed with Southern growers in mind, the three-day program will focus on greenhouse management and garden center marketing. Nationally known speakers will provide valuable educational information to help growers expand their knowledge, gain a competitive edge and expand market share.
Special sessions will include "Money with Perennials," "New Vegetable Annuals," "How to Build a Website from Scratch," "Marketing Products on the Web," and "Business Opportunities in Aquatic Gardens."

An industry tour will provide an opportunity for attendees to  inspect new garden varieties at the University of Georgia Trial Garden and visit Yoder Brothers, a leading producer of mum and other flowering plan cuttings. Stops also will be made at  Fafard's soil manufacturing plant and The Pottery, one of the world's largest garden centers.

The 1999 trade show will provide one of the largest assemblies of exclusive suppliers anywhere in the Southeast.  With more than 350 booths, the trade show will provide attendees with an opportunity to meet other growers, compare products, speak with industry representatives, observe equipment demonstrations and learn about technological trends.

For more information, program and registration materials, call 1-877-927-2775.

SOURCE:  DR. RAYMOND KESSLER, Extension horticulturist, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, (334) 844-3055.