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Green & Growin’ 26, hosted by the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association (NCNLA), wrapped up in Greensboro, N.C., bringing together green industry professionals from across the state and beyond for education, networking and business development.
Held Jan. 19–23, 2026, the annual event featured multiple days of educational sessions, a Marketplace trade show and opportunities for connection among growers, landscapers, suppliers, educators and industry partners.
Green & Growin’ 26 welcomed more than 1,200 education attendees and more than 2,700 Marketplace participants, reflecting strong engagement across both education sessions and the Marketplace floor.
Education sessions covered a wide range of timely topics, including business management, leadership, workforce development, production practices and emerging industry trends, offering practical takeaways for professionals at every career stage. The education program also featured keynote presentations by Dr. Melinda Knuth of NC State University and Rayne Gibson of Taproots Horticulture Consulting, offering perspectives on the economic impact of North Carolina’s green industry and the leadership skills needed to guide teams and businesses in a changing industry.
The Marketplace brought attendees together with exhibitors showcasing plants, equipment, products and services used across the green industry. The trade show supported hands-on demonstrations, product discovery and conversations that help build lasting business relationships. Attendees also had opportunities to reconnect with peers, build new connections and share experiences.
The event also highlighted NCNLA’s ongoing commitment to professional development, advocacy and strengthening the future of North Carolina’s green industry.
“Green & Growin’ continues to be a place where our industry comes together to learn, connect, and support one another,” said Jon Schwarz, NCNLA president and owner of Pender Pines Garden Center. “The energy, collaboration, and engagement we saw this year speak to the resilience and momentum of North Carolina’s green industry.”
Planning is already underway for next year’s event, to be held Jan. 18-22, 2027 in Greensboro.
