

# Event Details

- **Event Name**: 8th Annual Prince William Native Plant Symposium 2026
- **Event Start and End Date**: Sat, 14 Feb, 2026 at 09:00 am – Sat, 14 Feb, 2026 at 04:00 pm
- **Event Description**: Stop Mowing, Start Growing: Native Plants for Beginners and Beyond!
Stop mowing and get going on building your dream landscape!About this EventScroll to bottom of page for further details on breakout sessionsAboutWhether you are new to native plants and what they can do for your property or you are looking for alternative landscaping ideas, this event is for you! Native plants can:Create a beautiful yardSave time so you can enjoy other activitiesCreate habitat for birds &amp; pollinatorsSave money on fertilizer &amp; pesticidesImprove water qualityCurb ErosionCost/TicketsThis is a hybrid event. Participants can either choose to join in-person or virtually:General Admission Tickets:Early bird : $40 - available until Jan. 9 at 11:59pmIn-Person Tickets: $45 - available Jan. 9 at 11:59 pm - Feb. 10 at 11:59pmAt the Door: $55 - lunch not guaranteedStudent (in person): $10 - available until Feb. 10 at 11:59pmVirtual Tickets: $25 - available until Feb. 13 at 11:59pmNote that these prices do not include the EventBrite feeTo register for the event, click "Get Tickets" above.*Students, you will need to present your student ID at check-in. Otherwise, you will have to pay the 'At the Door' price.Other things to note:In-person tickets include light breakfast fare, lunch, and access to exhibitors.Doors will not open to the public until 9 a.m. for in-person ticket holders.Virtual tickets give you access to the Zoom meeting link. Please note that virtual registrants may only attend online.Virtual ticket sales will end at 11:59 pm, February 13th.Topics may change at the last moment if a speaker is unable to attend the symposiumLocationThe venue is located at the Verizon Auditorium at George Mason University, George Mason Circle, Manassas, VA, 20109. Please see the maps below and find the circled area.Parking is free (on weekends) and available in the Occoquan lot, Discovery lot, or King lotSee map below for more informationRefundsWe can offer refunds and ticket swaps until the end of Sunday, February 8th.If you are doing a ticket swap from In-Person to Virtual, please let us know so we can swap your ticket and refund you the difference.We cannot do ticket swaps from Virtual to In-Person; you will be refunded and then have to purchase an in-person ticket.If you need a refund because you can no longer attend the event, we will not be able to refund the EventBrite fee.ZoomZoom information will be e-mailed to all virtual-only ticket holders 2 days before the event. It will be e-mailed again on the day of the event to ALL ticket holders. The Zoom meeting will open at 9:00am.RecordingsAll of the presentations will be recorded (including our keynote speaker)and available to all participants Participants will be e-mailed a link to view these presentations following the event.Please note that it can take a couple of months for the presentations to be uploaded on YouTube. Also note that while we try our best to record all of our speakers, sometimes there are glitches that we cannot control and a video can't be uploaded. We always do our best to avoid this from happening!Pertaining only to In-person Ticket HoldersInclement WeatherIf there is inclement weather, we will still have the symposium, but it will only be offered virtually. If this is the case, you will be notified the Friday before the symposium. As we have to order the food ahead of time, we won’t be able to do ticket reimbursements for the in-person ticket holders.LunchWe will be having box lunches this year. All components of the box lunches are compostable to help reduce waste. You will make your lunch selection when you sign up.BRING YOUR OWN WATER BOTTLEThere will be sodas available, but to help reduce waste we ask everyone to bring their own water bottle.Check-InIn-person registration will be 9:00am-9:45am (EST). Please remember to keep your tickets handy either in the Eventbrite app or your email. You will need them at check-in. Students, don't forget to bring your ID!Keynote Speaker:Bill Cullina, The F. Otto Haas Executive Director &amp; Morris Arboretum &amp; Gardens of the University of PennsylvaniaSugar, Sex, and Poison: Shocking Plant Secrets Caught on CameraAre we humans masters of our world, or are plants really the ones in charge? What they lack in locomotion, they compensate for in structure and chemistry. Celebrated author and botanist Bill Cullina, Executive Director, Morris Arboretum and Gardens, will explain why plant life is at the center of a carefully balanced natural economy that is critical to the functioning of our ecosystems. Through photosynthesis, plants produce the energy that powers the food chain. And although eaten by others, they are far from helpless prey, having evolved a dizzying arsenal of relationships to create ecologically sound landscapes.Schedule (EST):9:00am-9:45am – Registration (Doors will open at 9AM!)9:45am-10:00am – Welcome10:00am-11:00am – Keynote: Bill Cullina11:00-11:30: Networking11:30am-12:30pm – Breakout Session 112:30pm-1:45pm – Lunch1:45pm-2:45pm – Breakout Session 23:00pm-4:00pm – Breakout Session 3  https://cdn-az.allevents.in/events1/banners/c6d6b2a0-d529-11f0-a7a5-c73657ccb5ea-rimg-w955-h740-dcf0f0f0-gmir.jpg   https://cdn-az.allevents.in/events3/banners/c7346300-d529-11f0-bb38-4d8fc23ca655-rimg-w881-h740-dc484945-gmir.png Huge thanks to our sponsors for hosting this year's Native Plant Symposium!  https://cdn-az.allevents.in/events4/banners/c7700c70-d529-11f0-bb38-4d8fc23ca655-rimg-w1200-h332-dcffffff-gmir.jpg   https://cdn-az.allevents.in/events3/banners/c79b3b20-d529-11f0-bb38-4d8fc23ca655-rimg-w1200-h313-dcffffff-gmir.jpg   https://cdn-az.allevents.in/events8/banners/c7f5de40-d529-11f0-b218-a936741c3e57-rimg-w1200-h129-dc000000-gmir.png Breakout Session 1?: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PMBreakout Session 1Info: Please choose one presentation to attend at each session:Establishing &amp; Maintaining a Native Garden Host: Nancy Berlin, Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional IIInfo: While native plants tend to be less work to maintain over time, careful plant selection and acknowledgment of growth habits can lower maintenance time. This class will help us to think through steps from plant selection to a sustainable level of maintenance.Restoring Suburban/Urban Soil HealthHost: Dan Schwartz, Soil Scientist at Northern VA Soil &amp; Info: For residents of cities and suburbs, the soil in our front and backyards is often dense, impermeable, infertile, and an all-around difficult environment for plant growth. Learn how you can restore your home’s soil to health and provide environmental benefits that extend beyond your property lines.Friend or FoeHost: Stephanie Johnson, Owner of Green SteezeInfo: A perspective on pioneers, both native and invasives.  What to expect and how to manage them.How to Plant a Native MeadowHost: Bert Harris, Co-Director of the Clifton InstituteInfo: In this presentation Clifton Institute Co-Director Bert Harris will explain how to plant and maintain native meadows. The emphasis will be on mini meadows but he will also cover how to establish bigger plantings. Bert will also talk about the conservation of Prince William County's remnant prairies and how you can help by planting the right species in your meadow. Small Space Garden DesignHost: Adam BucherInfo:  Explore the basics of design, from hardscape and bed layout to unique plant selection. Learn how to fill your townhouse plot or garden nook with year-round interest and a few key elements to make it a little slice of paradise. Several native plants with smaller stature or upright habits will be highlighted.Plant This, Not That Host: Julie BornemanInfo: Plant This, Not That explores how choosing native plants can transform our landscapes for the better. Participants will learn how and why native species support local wildlife, require fewer resources, and help restore natural balance in our communities. The talk highlights common ornamental and invasive plants that often dominate our gardens, and shows how to replace them with beautiful, ecologically beneficial native alternatives. Attendees will leave feeling inspired and empowered to make thoughtful planting decisions that promote healthier, more resilient ecosystems right at home.Breakout Session 2?: 01:45 PM - 02:45 PMBreakout Session 2Info: Please choose one presentation to attend at each session:Designed by Nature: Native Plants for Any Garden StyleHost: Karen Tavakoli, Founder and Owner of “Karen for Nature” Info: Discover how native plants can fit beautifully into any landscape, from formal gardens to modern minimalist designs, without sacrificing ecological function. Karen offers down-to-earth insights from what she has tried, tested, planted, and proven. Through real-world examples and design principles, Karen will take you through multiple virtual plantings, detailing how she determined what natives to plant where for both sun and shade gardens. You’ll learn how to combine aesthetics with biodiversity, choose plants that work together naturally, and design “living” landscapes that heal the earth while supporting butterflies, birds, and other wildlife right at home.Right Plant, Right Place, Right AppHost: Eli WrightInfo: Plant ID with AI Tools and the Flora of Virginia App. Sharing how the Flora App fits into today’s mix of plant ID tools. Engaging your HOAHost: Renee GrebeInfo: Looking to have a positive ecological impact in your Community Association? Community leaders like you can drive significant change, but doing it alone presents challenges. Hear from local HOA residents turned advocates Renee Grebe (Nature Forward) and Melinda Soltys (Wild Ones Nova) about how you could organize and lead, from planting a tree to joining your board. You’ll hear specific examples and concrete suggestions on what you can do to get started. We’ll also touch on some of the state-level advocacy from VA, MD, and across the country helping to empower this movement.Too Hot - Too Cold!! Host: Janene Cullen, PhD, Virginia Cooperative ExtensionInfo: This presentation explores the profound effects of climate change on the native plants of Virginia. As global temperatures rise and weather patterns shift, Virginia’s native flora faces significant challenges and transformations. Join this session as we delve into the intricate relationship between climate change and plant life in Virginia, highlighting the challenge to preserve our natural heritage. Bring your own examples of changes you have noticed to share with the group. Native Shrubs Host: Will Shoup, County Arborist, PWCInfo: This presentation will cover the definition of what a native shrub is along with the ecological benefits to planting native species for various purposes.  The landscaping advantages of native shrub plantings.  Various examples of native shrubs in Virginia as well as specific to the northern Virginia area.  Practical tips for planting and maintenance of these shrubs. Site Analysis*Host: John Magee, Founder of Landscape Design company Info: *Site Analysis is required to take Principles of Design in Session 3.  Make sure you sign up for Principles of Design in Session 3! You CANNOT take Site Analysis without taking Principles of Design. In this presentation, landscape designer John Magee explores the importance of thoroughly understanding a site before beginning any design work. He highlights which factors influence design decisions, ensuring that landscapes are both functional and sustainable.Breakout Session 3?: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PMBreakout Session 3Info: Please choose one presentation to attend at each session:Invasive Species ControlHost: Patricia GreenbergInfo: Non-native invasive plants change the environment, reduce healthy wildlife habitat and can feel overwhelming to control. This presentation will provide information about how Fairfax County Park Authority prioritizes and controls the various invasive plants that challenge the natural areas, as well as tips for how homeowners can control the most common invaders. Pollinator Habitat for the BirdsHost: Jim McGlone, Certified Aborist &amp; Environmental EducatorInfo: Pollinators have become a driving force in the switch to native plants. When most people think of pollinator habitat, they think about nectar and pollen from the flowers. But pollinators need much more. In this talk we will look at building pollinator habitats based on the needs of the pollinators. We will also see why a complete pollinator habitat depends on native plants and is great for, and necessary for birds and other wildlife.Common Native Ferns of the Mid-AtlanticHost: Elaine Mills, Extension Master GardenerInfo: Learn about the unique life cycle of ferns and details on 16 commonly grown native ferns, including their distinguishing features, growth habits, support for wildlife, care requirements, and landscape uses.Creating a Native Food ForestHost: Clay Morris, PWC Environmental Program ManagerInfo: Learn how to incorporate native edible food plants into your landscape. From a townhouse to a farmhouse, we can grow a wide range of plants that will provide food for both humans and wildlife.What’s Bugging You? An Intro to Landscape Integrated Pest ManagementHost: Paige ThackerInfo: As we encounter pest problems in the landscape, proper diagnosis of the cause is important for effective control. Integrated pest management (IPM) provides a system of strategies for managing any pest population to an acceptable level.  In this session, we will review the steps for properly diagnosing a pest problem and the options for long-term control.Principles of DesignHost: John Magee, Founder of Landscape Design companyInfo: *Site Analysis from Session 2 is required to take Principles of Design in Session 3.  Make sure you have taken Site Analysis in Session 2! You CANNOT take Principles of Design without taking Site Analysis from Session 2. John Magee introduces the core principles that guide effective landscape design. This session demonstrates how these concepts can be applied to create outdoor spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, practical, and harmonious with their surroundings.
- **Event URL**: https://allevents.in/manassas/8th-annual-prince-william-native-plant-symposium-2026/100001858916261579
- **Event Categories**: art, contests, meetups, health-wellness, workshops, literary-art, nonprofit
- **Interested Audience**: 
  - total_interested_count: 1

## Ticket Details

- **Ticket URL**: https://consumer.pxf.io/c/1339408/3151484/39691?partnerpropertyid=1191892&MediaPartnerPropertyId=1191892&svlink=14105511&level=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fe%2F8th-annual-prince-william-native-plant-symposium-2026-tickets-1858916261579
- **Ticket Price Range**: min: 0, max: 49.87, currency: USD

## Event venue details

- **city**: Manassas
- **state**: VA
- **country**: United States
- **location**: Verizon Auditorium
- **lat**: 38.7572762
- **long**: -77.5238858
- **full address**: Verizon Auditorium, George Mason University, Manassas, United States

## Event Organizer details

- **affiliate_id**: 10
- **organizer**: Native Plant Symposiums (https://allevents.in/org/native-plant-symposiums/20879191)

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## FAQs

- **Q**: When is the event happening?
  - **A:** Sat, 14 Feb, 2026 at 09:00 am
- **Q**: Where is the event happening?
  - **A:** Verizon Auditorium, George Mason University, Manassas, United States
- **Q**: What is the ticket price?
  - **A:** starting from 0 up to 49.87 USD
- **Q**: Who is organizing the event?
  - **A:** Native Plant Symposiums
- **Q**: What type of event is this?
  - **A:** art, contests, meetups, health-wellness, workshops, literary-art, nonprofit
- **Q**: Where can I find ticket details about 8th Annual Prince William Native Plant Symposium 2026 ?
  - **A:** You can find ticket details about this event on AllEvents.

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