Thursday, July 16, 2026 – 8:45 AM–4:00 PM
JC Raulston Arboretum, 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh NC 27606
Presented by NC State’s Department of Horticultural Science and the JC Raulston Arboretum
Join us for the 2026 Landscape Professionals Field Day, an educational event designed for green industry professionals seeking practical solutions, fresh ideas and valuable industry insight. Industry experts will cover a wide range of timely topics focused on best practices, emerging trends and real-world applications that can improve day-to-day operations. The event also offers opportunities to network with peers, discover new techniques and earn continuing education credits while investing in professional growth.
Register today to earn continuing education credits and learn industry best practices.
Hope to see you on July 16 at the JC Raulston Arboretum.
Schedule of Events
Registration 8:00 am — Registration opens at the Bobby G. Wilder Visitor Center.
Welcome 8:45 am — Welcoming remarks from NC State University CALS Administration, NC Cooperative Extension and JC Raulston Arboretum leadership.
Color Field Trials Tour and Landscape Professional Morning Outdoor Sessions 9:00 am–12:00 pm
“It’s All about Color” — Tim Alderton, JC Raulston Arboretum
Tour the Color Trials, see the new plant introductions, and vote for your favorites.
“Do’s and Don’ts of Weed Control in Color Beds” — Joe Neal, Ph.D., Weed Extension Specialist, NC State University
Herbicide selection must be tailored to the species being planted, as herbaceous ornamentals can be sensitive to herbicides commonly used in landscape plantings. This demonstration will highlight recommended herbicides for use in color beds, along with common application mistakes and examples of resulting plant injury.
“So, it All Comes Down to This — The Down and Dirty of Soil Amendments” — Barb Fair, Ph.D., Landscape Extension Specialist, NC State University
Final results from the 2024 soil management and native plant field study, including a cost analysis of soil amendment materials to help professionals evaluate economical and effective strategies for improving plant establishment and long-term performance.
Lunch for All Participants
12:00 pm–1:00 pm
Box lunches and drinks served at the Bobby G. Wilder Visitor Center patio area.
Landscape Professional Sessions 1:00 pm–4:00 pm – Afternoon Indoor Sessions (Ruby C. McSwain Education Center)
“The Pest is Yet to Come: Preparing for Emerging Threats in NC Landscapes”
Kelly Oten, Ph.D., Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, Forest Health, NC State University
From spotted lanternfly to elm zigzag sawfly and crape myrtle bark scale, new threats are already showing up in our landscapes. This session covers what we know, how to recognize these pests, and what you can do about them.
“Turfgrass Pests and Problems in the Triangle”
Ray McCauley, Ph.D., Turfgrass Extension Associate, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, NC State University
This presentation will address common turfgrass pests, their control, and common management issues in the Triangle, with an emphasis on integrated pest management programs.
“Understanding the Ecological Roles and Impact of Insect Friends & Foes”
Bill Reynolds, Entomologist and Naturalist
Learn to recognize and identify many of the common insects and invertebrates encountered in our homes, yards, gardens, and agricultural areas, and how to encourage beneficials while discouraging potentially harmful species.
Registration
Early registration: $55.00 through Sunday, July 5, 2026.
Late and day-of registration: $65.00, Monday, July 6 through Thursday, July 16, 2026.
Registration includes attendance at all sessions and a boxed lunch with a drink. Advance registration is required.
