Green & Growin’ 26 brings together North Carolina’s green industry for education, connection and growth

Green & Growin’ 26, hosted by the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, wrapped up a successful week in Greensboro, North Carolina, 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 well-attended 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 over 2,700 Marketplace participants. Education sessions covered a wide range of 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 Melinda Knuth of North Carolina 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.

Beyond education and the Marketplace, Green & Growin’ 26 reinforced the importance of community within the industry. Attendees had opportunities to reconnect with peers, build new connections and share experiences shaped by common challenges and successes. 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.”

NCNLA thanked the speakers, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers and attendees who contributed to the success of Green & Growin’ 26. Planning is already underway for next year’s event, to be held Jan. 18-22, 2027, in Greensboro.