AMES, Iowa – The Siouxland Garden Symposium will take place on Saturday, April 11, at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City. The annual event offers valuable, research-based information applicable to both home gardeners and small-scale growers.
This year’s symposium will feature a dynamic lineup of experts covering innovative topics in horticulture, including the use of artificial intelligence in the garden, foundational soil health and practical fruit tree cultivation. The event will kick off at 9 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m.
Featured speakers and sessions
Dan Fillius, horticulture field specialist for commercial vegetables with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, will deliver the keynote address covering two essential topics: “Using AI in the Garden” and “Growing Cut Flowers in Iowa.”
Fillius managed 140 acres of vegetables in Minnesota and now provides research-based guidance to commercial growers across Iowa. He co-hosts the podcast “What in the Weather?” and draws on years of firsthand experience to help producers enhance their success and sustainability.
Dr. Carolina Cordova, assistant professor and statewide soil health specialist at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, will present “Healthy Soil, Happy Gardens: Practical Tips for Testing and Improving Your Soil.” Cordova’s work focuses on advancing soil health, carbon sequestration and resilient cropping systems across Nebraska and beyond, contributing to regenerative agriculture initiatives.
Carol Larvick will cover “Fruit Tree Growing for the Backyard.” Larvick is a retired extension educator and current Nebraska Master Gardener, whose deep love for gardening led her to help develop and sustain the South Sioux City Community Orchard. Having worked with over 150 fruit trees through various seasons of success and setbacks, she continues to share the practical insights and challenges of fruit tree cultivation.
Registration
The cost of registering is $50 and includes lunch. Advance registration is mandatory and must be completed by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, March 27. Please note that on-site registration will not be available.
For more information or to register, please visit: www.siouxlandgardenshow.org
