Southwest Michigan Horticultural Days Feature Vegetable Insights

By Andi Anderson

The Southwest Michigan Horticultural Days will feature a special vegetable program on February 5, 2025, at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center. The program will include sessions on biostimulants, crop rotations, and support plans from leading input suppliers for vegetable growers.

Highlights of the Agenda:

1:00 p.m. – Biostimulants in Vegetables: Pat Owens from Miller Chemical will discuss the role of biostimulants in improving plant biology and nutrient utilization for vegetable production.

1:40 p.m. – Crop Rotations for Vegetables: Lucas Costanza from Nutrien will share his experiences and insights on effective crop rotation practices in southwest Michigan.

2:20 p.m. – Valent Plans to Support Growers in 2025: Amy Irish-Brown will present Valent’s strategies to assist vegetable growers in the upcoming year.

2:40 p.m. – Lakeshore Ag Plans to Support Growers in 2025: Kevin DeHerrera and Dave Alexander will discuss the benefits of liquid fertilizers and their plans to enhance vegetable systems.

3:00 p.m. – Corteva Plans to Support Growers in 2025: Claudio Vrisman and Jen Hall will provide insights into the chemical supply market and Corteva’s support for Michigan vegetable growers.

The vegetable sessions will conclude at 3:30 p.m., followed by a wine-tasting event in the trade show area around 4 p.m.

Additional Event Details:

Southwest Michigan Horticultural Days also features tracks on blueberries, tree fruit, grapes, and marketing, continuing on February 6. The event includes a trade show, networking opportunities, and a group lunch.

Parking is available on the north side of the Mendel Center off Yore Road, with entry through the north doors. GPS coordinates for the location: 42.097710, -86.389994.

The event is hosted by the Michigan Grape Society and Lake Michigan College. To register or learn more, visit the Michigan Grape Society website. Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to gain expert knowledge and connect with industry professionals!

Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu