The approaching winter season is the perfect time for Indiana specialty crop growers to learn about industry "hot topics" from Purdue University experts.
The Indiana Horticulture Congress and Trade Show will take place Jan. 17-19 at the Wyndham Indianapolis West, 2554 Executive Drive, Indianapolis. The event includes networking functions and educational workshops dealing with issues such as beginning specialty crop farming, production practices, pest and disease control, marketing, food safety, labor, and production in high tunnels and greenhouses.
"The conference provides three days of educational material to increase the skill levels of fruit and vegetable growers in Indiana and surrounding states," said Jennifer Dennis, Purdue horticulture professor. "Attendees have the chance to learn about trends in the industry from Purdue University Extension educators and faculty."
The trade show is expanding this year to encompass more exhibitors attracted by larger attendance at the Congress, which has surpassed 800 the past two years.
Participants will be introduced to My Local Indiana, a new organization to help consumers find locally grown products while promoting Indiana farms, agritourism, wineries and farmers markets.
Attendees with private applicator permits, which allow growers to use restricted or state-limited herbicides, can participate in the Private Applicator Recertification Program. All permit holders must participate in three recertification programs within five years of receiving their permit. The program will be held 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan.18. There is a $10 fee to receive credits.
Special events will include a silent auction to help support fruit and vegetable Extension activities, a screening of "The Greenhorns," a documentary about beginning farmers and an Indiana Wine Grape reception at which attendees can taste Indiana wines while browsing the trade show.
Apple cider producers can participate in the annual cider contest by submitting two, one-gallon jugs of cider by Wednesday morning of the conference. A consumer panel will judge the ciders, and awards will be given to the makers of the three best ciders in the state.
Registration is due Jan. 9. Hotel rooms should also be booked at the Wyndham by that date to receive special conference rates.
For more information or to register, visit http://www.inhortcongress.org
