Over the past 39 years, the Wildflower Association of Michigan (WAM) has presented the annual Michigan Native Plant Conference at the Kellogg Convention Center in East Lansing Michigan. This conference has presented timely, actionable and fascinating information about native plants, habitats, landscape design, wildlife, invasive controls and much more. Our 2026 conference will continue in that vein with the theme “Natives and Nature: Cultivating Connections.” Our presenters will focus on the role native plants play in establishing and supporting biodiversity in our world and how individuals can have a lasting impact.
This year, we are offering two days of learning and fun. On Saturday, March 7, we are holding a two-hour class on how those new to the native plant movement can start the transformative work to restore their property to a natural state taught by Jean Persely. Jean is a Master Gardener, Master Composter, Master Rain Gardener, Conservation Steward, Master Naturalist as well as certified Landscape Designer. She will present “Defining Your Canvas: Landscape Design”, an exploration of the art of landscape design. Here you will learn how to invest your time in creating an aesthetically pleasing design that is practical for you and your site. OPTIONAL: Extra time may be added at the end of this program for attendees to work on their own designs. Space is limited, so register early.
After the seminar, we will present a Poster Session which is a presentation of current research into the native plant field by university students from area universities such as Grand Valley, University of Michigan, Michigan State, Wayne State and more. Not only is it a wonderful opportunity to learn the newest thinking in the field, but it will also provide networking opportunities. The Poster Session is open to everyone and runs from 6 to 8 pm on Saturday, March 7. Appetizers and a cash bar will be available.
On Sunday, March 8, our Michigan Native Plant Conference will begin. We will offer a light breakfast starting at 8:00 am. Our keynote speaker will begin at 9:00 am followed by breakout sessions so attendees can select the session most interesting to them. Of course, a delicious lunch will be served and there will be an array of vendors selling artwork, jewelry, books and more. During lunch, we will present the WAM Grant winners. These are non-profit organizations who will be using funds from our generous members and donors to create, install and maintain native plant gardens throughout the state.
More information and registration is found here. The start and stop times are place holders for our calendar and exact times will be posted when the conference agenda is finalized and posted. Cost: $150 Nonmembers, WAM Members $120 and students $30