SYMPOSIA & CONFERENCES
New England Botanic Garden’s symposia and conferences bring together professionals, practitioners, and passionate learners for in-depth explorations of timely topics in horticulture, ecology, plant science, landscape design, and environmental stewardship.
Each event features leading experts, interactive sessions, and collaborative discussions designed to foster innovation, share research, and spark meaningful dialogue. Whether you’re deepening your expertise or entering the field, our programs offer enriching experiences that connect knowledge with practice—and people with purpose.
Plant Geek Day at NEBG
Wednesday, September 10, 8:30 a.m-3:30 p.m.
Celebrate your inner plant nerd! Join us for Plant Geek Day—a lively, educational, and inspiring gathering for green industry professionals, gardeners, and curious plant lovers of all kinds. Presented in collaboration with the Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA), this day is packed with hands-on learning, expert lectures, and plenty of plant talk with fellow enthusiasts.
Presented in partnership with the Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) 
In Partnership with the Place: Site-Specific Native Design, New England-Style
Presented in partnership with New Directions in the American Landscape (NDAL)
Wednesday, September 24, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Explore New England’s native plants and wildlife through expert-led talks and field walks. Learn how to design and care for landscapes that support local ecosystems and wildlife, blending ecology with beautiful garden stewardship.
Presented in partnership with New Directions in the American Landscape (NDAL)
Seeds to Sustenance: Northeastern Nut Tree Symposium
Sunday, November 2; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Explore the past, present, and future of the American chestnut in this full-day symposium featuring expert talks, hands-on workshops—including natural dyeing—and a guided tour of the NEBG Chestnut Project. Cap off the day with the warm tradition of fresh roasted chestnuts.
Cultivated: New England Apple Tree Symposium
Saturday, November 15, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | On-Site at New England Botanic Garden
Sunday, November 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Off-Site Massachusetts Cider house Experience
Explore the world of heirloom apples during a full day of apple-inspired discovery. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of NEBG’s Frank L. Harrington Orchard, learn how to start and maintain your own home orchard, sample rare and flavorful apple varieties, and dive into the art of cider making on Sunday November 16 with an optional off-site cidery tour. Whether you’re a backyard grower, history buff, or cider enthusiast, there’s something to savour and learn.
2024 Urban Tree Symposium
Friday, February 7, 2025
New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill’s annual Urban Tree Symposium is dedicated to exploring the importance of urban forests and ways we can improve our green spaces. The symposium brings together experts in the fields of forestry, horticulture, biology, technology and more. You can expect to hear current and important information that will impact your work in our communities and your own home. This event is co-hosted in partnership with the Ecological Landscape Alliance. CEU’s will be available.