Register now for the 2025 Southeast Michigan Grower-to-Grower Meetings
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EmailWhat better way to learn than by having a thoughtful discussion with peers in your industry? Our Grower-to-Grower Meetings feature an informal discussion facilitated by Michigan State University Extension educators.
The Southeast Michigan Grower-to-Grower Meetings were dreamt up with a goal of fostering connection between growers by giving them a chance to discuss amongst each other the challenges they experience, the solutions that come with experience in the business and an opportunity to ask others how they deal with difficult problems. These sessions are designed for commercial growers looking to expand their knowledge and network with others in the industry.
Each of the three Grower-to-Grower Meetings features a different educational theme explored through a facilitated discussion with Michigan State University Extension educators in an informal setting. This year’s theme of topics touches on the concept of creating a sustainability triangle within your business. Topics include economic viability through marketing, social engagement and customer retention, and environmental sustainability through integrated pest management.
All three meeting sessions will be held at the Washtenaw County Extension Office, 705 N Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Each meeting is free and snacks/refreshments will be served at each. The following are the descriptions for each session:
Tuesday, February 11, 2-4 p.m.
Focus on economic viability through effective marketing
“Using Targeted Marketing Strategies to Increase Sales”
As plant enthusiasts, we know the many benefits that plants provide for the environment and beyond, but what are the best ways to market these benefits to retail customers? Understanding customer perceptions and barriers to purchasing are key. We’ll go over research-based marketing strategies that have been shown to increase customers’ willingness to purchase and spend more on plants.
Caitlin Splawski is a greenhouse and floriculture educator with Michigan State University Extension based in Pontiac, Michigan. She brings expertise in greenhouse management, herbaceous perennial production and container trialing. Her interests include cultivar selection, integrated pest management in greenhouses, pesticide safety and pollinator protection, and marketing of ornamental plants.
Tuesday, February 25, 2-4 p.m.
Focus on building social capital and community engagement
“Farm Marketing and Community Engagement”
Small farms do more than just produce food and agricultural products. They are integral parts of their communities and form a part of the local fabric. In this session, join other small-scale farmers as we discuss interactions with guests, local and municipal institutions, and customers.
Derek Plotkowski, PhD, is the fruit educator for southeast Michigan with Michigan State University (MSU) Extension. He also covers farm markets and agritourism. Plotkowski is based out of the MSU Tollgate Farm in Novi, Michigan.
Tuesday, March 11, 2-4 p.m.
Focus on environmental sustainability through integrated pest management
“Integrated Disease Management in Specialty Crops”
Join fellow growers to talk about what works and what doesn’t when it comes to getting a handle on specialty crop diseases. Come to share your experience or just listen and learn in a comfortable, relaxed setting. Vegetable, fruit and flower growers alike won’t want to miss this opportunity to make new connections and gain new ideas.
Chris Galbraith is a vegetable educator covering southeast Michigan for MSU Extension and northwest Ohio for Ohio State University Extension. He is based out of the MSU Extension Monroe County office in Monroe, Michigan.
What to expect during the meetings
Light refreshments will be available at each meeting. There will be group introductions and networking time followed by a mini presentation by an MSU Extension educator to get the ball rolling for a facilitated discussion. The meeting will end with some more time to informally speak with peers and learn about other upcoming events and programs from MSU Extension.
Registration is free. Come to one, two or all three of the meeting sessions. Seats are limited, so be sure to sign up early!
Register for the Southeast Michigan Grower-to-Grower Meetings
