By Andi Anderson
Gardeners looking to expand their knowledge and improve their skills will have an opportunity to learn from horticulture experts at the 2026 Seeds for Thought Garden Symposium. Organized by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, the event will bring together gardening enthusiasts for a full day of education, practical advice, and networking.
The symposium is scheduled for Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the Grinnell College campus in Grinnell, Iowa. The event is a collaborative effort involving county extension horticulture staff and Master Gardeners from Jasper, Mahaska, Marion, and Poweshiek counties.
This year marks an important change for the symposium. The event has moved from its previous location in Newton, Jasper County, to Grinnell in Poweshiek County. In addition, organizers have shifted the gathering from the spring season to the fall, creating a fresh learning opportunity for gardening enthusiasts.
The educational program is open to everyone, regardless of gardening experience. Whether participants are beginner gardeners or have years of experience, the symposium offers sessions designed to help attendees develop new skills and gain practical knowledge that can be applied in home gardens and landscapes.
A major highlight of the event will be presentations from two keynote speakers. The morning keynote speaker will be Lisa Hinzman Howard of Midwest Garden Gal, who will present "Cheap Tricks Gardening: Cause you Don't Need to Spend a Fortune for Fabulous." Her session will focus on creative and cost-effective gardening techniques that can help gardeners achieve attractive results while managing expenses.
The afternoon keynote presentation will be delivered by Dan Fillius, horticulture field specialist for commercial vegetable crops with ISU Extension and Outreach. His presentation, “Understanding Iowa Weather,” will provide valuable insight into weather conditions and their impact on gardening and crop production.
In addition to keynote sessions, attendees can participate in breakout workshops led by experienced horticulture specialists. Dan Fillius will present "What's Wrong With My Plants? Scouting for Vegetable Pests and Diseases," helping gardeners identify and manage common plant health issues.
Ray Kruse, horticulturist with ISU Extension and Outreach Dubuque County, will lead two educational sessions: "Soil Testing and Interpretation of Your Soil Test" and "The Difference Between Soil, Potting Mix, and Other Bagged Amendments." These presentations will help gardeners better understand soil health and growing media.
Participants will also hear from Randall Vos, commercial fruit crops field specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, who will present "Other Fruits To Try Growing in Your Yard" and “Shedding Some Light on Plant Lighting.” These sessions will explore additional fruit-growing opportunities and the role of light in plant development.
The registration fee for the symposium is $45, which includes access to keynote presentations, breakout sessions, and lunch. Registration must be completed by October 1, 2026. Late registrations may be accepted based on available space, with an additional fee applied.
The Seeds for Thought Garden Symposium promises an engaging and informative experience, giving gardeners practical tools and expert guidance to enhance their gardening success and enjoyment.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education