University of Illinois Extension hosting master gardener conference

The general public is invited to attend the 2008 University of Illinois Extension State Master Gardener Conference to be held Sept. 11-13 at the Westin in Lombard.

This year's conference, "Pathways to a Greener Illinois", will focus on "greening" - looking at ways to conserve resources and garden in an environmentally friendly manner.

Sept. 11 is devoted to tours of area sites such as the "Smart Home, Green + Wired" at the Museum of Science and Industry, the gardens at Ball Horticulture, Midwest Groundcovers, Country Garden Cuisines and more. A wide variety of classes is available Sept. 12-13. Horticultural experts from around the Midwest as well as several top national speakers will be on hand to talk all aspects of gardening. Registrants may choose from more than 30 different classes on topics from water conservation to shade gardening to tropical plants. The keynote address will be given Sept. 13 by horticulture expert Melinda Myers.

The registration fee for two days of educational sessions (Sept. 12-13) is $240 and this includes all classes, handouts, and meals. Single-day registration is available. There is an additional fee for the Sept. 11 tours. Registration for the general public is open through Tuesday.

View a list of speakers and tours on the conference brochure and registration page at www.extension.uiuc.edu/mg/.

Contact the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Office at (217) 265-5256 with questions.