2026 Master Gardener Volunteer State Conference: October 22-23
Awards Presentation: October 22 @ 6 pm
Conference Registration
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Agenda at a Glance
Thursday Sessions Friday Sessions
Awards Ceremony Registration
Conference Evaluation
Thursday, October 22, 2026
8:45 am Welcome and Announcements, Pam Bennett, State MGV Program Director
9:00 am Keynote
What You Practice is What Grows
Chuck Hutchinson, Former osu and nfl fooball player and current garden artist
My presentation will share an unexpected chapter of my life and what gardening taught me about health, purpose, and continuing to grow. I'll use my story to explore the benefits of gardening beyond being outdoors. How my garden is a metaphor for the things I have valued most throughout my life and that like my garden I need to tend my needs to grow and thrive.
Bio
I grew up on a dairy farm in rural Ohio, played football at Ohio State under Woody Hayes, spent much of my professional life in football and business, and eventually retired in 2009.
For years I thought about what retirement would look like —golf, community service, and business mentoring. Best laid plans ! A few years into retirement, I found myself struggling with loss of purpose, challenge, and physical activity that had been part of my life for decades. Eventually, I realized I needed something that would engage me physically, mentally, and emotionally.
That led me to an overgrown piece of property and, somewhat unexpectedly, to gardening. I began clearing brush, moving stone, planting, making mistakes, moving plants, learning, and trying again. What started as physical work gradually became a nationally recognized garden—and, more importantly, an important part of rebuilding my own sense of purpose and well-being.
10:30 a.m. Breakout Sessions
Breakout Session 1
Stress, Pests, or Disease? Diagnosing Problems in Urban Trees and Woody Ornamentals
Francesca Rotondo, Plant Diagnostician and Program Director CWE PPDC, The Ohio State University
This presentation explores the challenges of diagnosing health problems in urban trees and woody ornamentals. Participants will learn how environmental stress, site conditions, pests, pathogens, and cultural practices interact to produce similar symptoms, making accurate diagnosis difficult. Using real-world examples, attendees will gain a practical framework for investigating plant health problems and distinguishing among the many factors that contribute to decline in urban landscapes.
BIO
Dr. Francesca Rotondo is the Director and Plant Diagnostician of the C. Wayne Ellett Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic at The Ohio State University. As plant pathologist she has an extensive expertise in plant disease diagnostics, molecular detection, and disease management in different commodities. She earned her Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from the University of Bologna, Italy, and has built her research career spanning academia, diagnostics, extension, and applied research in differnt pathosystems. Her work focuses on the detection, monitoring, and management of emerging plant pathogens, fungicide resistance, and diagnostic assay development.
Breakout Session 2
Growing Community: The Role of MGVs in Urban Agriculture
Fernanda Krupek, Assistant Professor and Urban Food System Extension Specialist,, Yiyun Lin, Assistant Professor and Urban Agriculture Specialist, Ohio State University
This session will feature presentations highlighting ongoing research and outreach projects examining fruit and vegetable production practices, urban growing systems, composting and food waste diversion strategies, and their impacts on productivity, sustainability, and community food systems. The session will also explore opportunities for Master Gardener volunteers to participate directly in applied research activities and demonstration projects, as well as to users of the resulting outreach information and resources that supports successful crop production in urban settings. In addition, discussions will emphasize the critical role Master Gardeners play in growing fruits and vegetables that contribute to local food systems through home gardens, community gardens, educational gardens, and food donation programs. A significant portion of the session will engage participants in interactive discussions focused on their perspectives and experiences with applied research and urban food production. Participants will discuss effective approaches for engaging Master Gardeners in applied research projects, major barriers to successfully growing and managing crops in urban environments, and challenges associated with accessing and utilizing research findings, outreach materials, and educational resources. These discussions will help identify opportunities to strengthen collaboration among researchers, Extension professionals, and Master Gardener volunteers while improving the development, dissemination, and adoption of research-based information that advances urban agriculture and supports community food systems.
BIO
Dr. Krupek is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Horticulture and Crop Science at The Ohio State University. She joined Ohio State in August 2023 as State Extension Specialist in Urban Food Systems, a newly created position. Her program, implemented through the Urban Food Innovations Team, integrates applied research, participatory extension programming, experiential teaching, and service leadership to strengthen the sustainability and viability of urban agriculture in Ohio and the Midwest–Great Lakes region. Urban agricultural stakeholders face unique production conditions, including regulatory constraints, municipal logistics, and cultural or dietary preferences that shape each city’s history and current environment. Her program addresses these issues through stakeholder engaged research and extension approaches centered on innovation, knowledge co-development, and systems integration. Dr. Yiyun Lin’s extension and research interests focus on advancing the understanding of the diverse urban agriculture practices and addressing the unique challenges faced by urban farmers in Ohio. Her work aims to provide accessible resources and education tailored to the needs of growers operating in complex and dynamic urban environments, and explore innovative strategies to improve the environmental, economic, and social viability of urban farming systems using her background in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) and plant genetics. Dr. Lin is a co-leader of the OSU Urban Agriculture Team.
Breakout Session 3
Fact or Fiction? The Truth About Natural Weed Killers
Maggie Rivera, Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator, Summit County
One of the greatest challenges gardeners face is keeping weeds under control so desirable plants can thrive. As interest grows in environmentally friendly gardening practices, a wide range of home remedies and naturally derived herbicides have emerged as alternatives to conventional weed killers. This presentation explores the advantages and limitations of these products, examining their effectiveness, safety considerations, and the situations in which they may be most useful. We will also examine common misconceptions about "natural" weed control and consider an important question: Does natural always mean safe, or can these products pose risks to people, pets, desirable plants, and the environment?
BIO
Maggie is the Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator for OSU Extension in Summit County, having previously held the same position in Cuyahoga County. Before joining OSU, she managed the Ohio City Farm in Cleveland and worked alongside international farmers who arrived through the refugee program. She earned her B.S. in biology with a concentration in environmental studies from John Carroll University, and her M.S. in community-based food systems from Michigan State University. Maggie also completed post-graduate internships on farms in Ohio, Vermont, and Ireland. As a city girl born and raised, Maggie experienced an agrarian transformation while growing food and living off the land in Vermont. Maggie strives to share this empowering experience with others through urban agriculture education and training.
11:30 a.m. Breakout Sessions
Breakout Session 1
Beyond the Harvest: Connecting Gardeners to Safe Food Preservation Resources
Kate Shumaker, Extension Educator, FCS, Food Preservation Team, Ohio State University Extension
When gardeners proudly harvest baskets of fresh produce, one of the first questions they ask is, "How can I safely preserve it?" Master Gardener Volunteers are often on the front lines of these conversations, and having access to trusted, research-based information is essential.
Join members of The Ohio State University Extension Food Preservation Team for an interactive tour of the extensive food preservation resources available to support both volunteers and clientele across Ohio. Participants will discover a library of tools, including live and recorded webinars, fact sheets, social media content, Ask Extension support, on-call consultation opportunities, and other educational resources designed to answer food preservation questions with confidence.
This session will help MGVs identify reliable, science-based recommendations and connect clients with the right resources for safe canning, freezing, drying, and other preservation methods. Whether you're new to food preservation or looking to expand your toolkit, you'll leave knowing where to find trusted information and how to leverage Extension's expertise to better serve your community.
Participants will:
• Explore Ohio State Extension's food preservation resource library.
• Learn how to access and share research-based preservation information with clients.
• Discover opportunities for ongoing support through webinars, Ask Extension, and consultation services.
• Gain confidence in referring clients to trusted food safety resources.
Together, we can help Ohio gardeners preserve their harvest safely and successfully.
BIO
The OSU Extension Food Preservation Team has been a trusted source of information for over 25 years. Comprised of educators and faculty from state and county levels, this team provides tools to link clients to the correct food safety information they need and can make the job of another Extension professional simpler. Team members include: Nicole Arnold, Assistant Professor, Food Safety SpecialistLisa Barlage, Educator, Ross CountyAlisha Barton, Educator, Miami County Sofia Carter, Educator, Champaign CountyShari Gallup, Assistant Professor, Licking CountyLuAnn Duncan, Educator, Mahoning County Laura Halladay, Healthy People Program SpecialistEmma Horstman, Educator, Paulding County Tina McGillvary, Educator, Darke CountyMelissa J. Rupp, Assistant Professor, Fulton CountyKate Shumaker, Educator, Holmes County
Breakout Session 2
How to Be a Succ-essful Gardener: Succulent Basics for Thriving Plants
Lisa Steinkopf, The Houseplant Guru
Succulents are still going strong as one of the hottest plants out there. You can find them in every garden center, big-box store, and even your local drugstore chain. Why are they so popular? Succulents, including cacti, are beautiful plants and easy to grow with the correct light. They don't need to be watered as often as tropical plants, which makes them perfect for the busy lifestyles many have.
We will talk about all aspects of care for these unique plants. How often to water, the correct light, and their unique characteristics.
You can be "succ-essful" with succulents. It's all about knowing how to grow them.
BIO
Lisa is The Houseplant Guru and features all things related to houseplants on her website at www.thehouseplantguru.com. She is the author of Houseplants: The Complete Guide to Choosing, Growing, and Caring for Indoor Plants; Grow in The Dark How to Choose and Care for Low-Light Houseplants; Creative Houseplant Projects; Bloom; and Houseplants for Beginners. Lisa is a member of numerous plant groups, including the Town and Country African Violet Society, the Michigan Cactus and Succulent Society, the Southeast Bromeliad Society, the Hardy Plant Society, and Garden Communicators International. Plant societies are where like-minded people share their hands-on, personal plant knowledge with others. Join one! Lisa cares for hundreds of houseplants in her home in the Detroit area, where she lives with her husband, John, and Henry, their cat. There is a houseplant for every situation, whether with natural light or electric light. A green thumb is something anyone can have because we all need a little green in our lives!
Breakout Session 3
The Lawn Debate: Rethinking Turfgrass in Modern Landscapes
Rebecca Grubbs Bowling, Asst. Prof & Extension Specialist, University of Tennessee
Turfgrass is often criticized for its inputs, environmental impacts, and perceived lack of ecological value, but the reality is more nuanced. This session will examine where turfgrass provides meaningful benefits in urban and suburban landscapes, while acknowledging where it may not be the best choice. Attendees will explore practical strategies for putting turfgrass in the right place, managing it responsibly, and integrating alternatives where they make sense.
BIO
Dr. Becky Bowling is an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Turfgrass Science and Management at the University of Tennessee. Her Extension and applied research program focuses on practical, science-based strategies to improve turfgrass management, resource-use efficiency, and the sustainability of managed landscapes. She works closely with Extension professionals, industry stakeholders, and communities to translate research into practical solutions for lawns, sports fields, golf courses, and other managed greenspaces.
Friday October 23, 2026
9:00 am Keynote
Looking Back to Looking Forward: A History of the MGV Program at OSU
Pam Bennett, State Director, Master Gardener Volunteer Program
Pam takes you through a fast-paced review of the Master Gardener Volunteer program, beginning with the creation of the program in Washington DC in 1973 and the implementation of the program in Ohio in 1974 and on. Learn about how we got to where we are today and share your thoughts on moving forward. Pam has been State MGV Program Director since 2006 and will be retiring sometime in 2027. Come join us!
BIO
Pam is a Professor with The Ohio State University and serves as the Horticulture Educator for OSU Extension in Clark County as well as the Director for the state Master Gardener Volunteer Program Director. She served as Interim Chadwick Arboretum Program Director 2020-2022.
Pam specializes in herbaceous ornamental plant trials and has been All-America Selections judge since 2012. She presents programs on annuals and perennials as well as other landscape topics locally, statewide, and nationally. Pam has also lectured internationally in seven countries. She is President of the Clark County Park District Commission, and a Board member of the Hartman Rock Garden and The Abilities Connection. She is the Past-President of the Friends of the Ohio Governor's Residence and Heritage Garden.
Breakout Session 1
10:30 a.m. Breakout Sessions
Breakout Session 1
The Nature of Plant Variegation
Ann Chanon, Extension Educator, Lake County, The Ohio State University
Variegated plants captivate gardeners with their colorful leaves, but their patterns are often more complex than they appear. Learn the science behind plant variegation, why some plants lose or gain variegation over time, and practical strategies for managing these distinctive landscape and houseplant favorites.
BIO
Ann developed her love for woody plants and flowers at an early age. She is currently the Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator for Lake County and works in commercial horticulture with nurseries, and in consumer horticulture with residents and Master Gardener Volunteers. She has been with Extension for 8 years and worked for 12 years as a Research Associate for Ohio State in the Horticulture and Crop Science Department working plant improvemnt, and the effect of environmental stress on plants.
Breakout Session 2
The Queen of Spring: Growing Exceptional Lilacs
Mark DeBard, M.D.,President, International Lilac Society
Join us for a colorful, image-rich exploration of one of the garden's most beloved flowering shrubs. Discover the fascinating history of lilacs, learn about the many species and cultivars available today, and explore their cultivation, propagation, and maintenance. We'll examine the wide range of flower forms and colors, follow the sequence of bloom times throughout the season, and discuss common diseases, pests, and frost-related challenges. The presentation concludes with highlights from the International Lilac Register, notable collections and festivals, and a showcase of some of the most outstanding and enduring lilac cultivars.
BIO
Mark DeBard, M.D., is a retired emergency physician and Franklin County, Ohio MGV since 2020. He is the President and a Board Member of The International Lilac Society, and the International Registrar for the Lilac (Syringa) Cultivar Names Registry. He maintains a personal collection of about 250 different lilac cultivars and species.
Breakout Session 3
Fresh Produce Safety: Navigating the Tough Questions
Melanie ivey & Sanja Ilic, Department of Plant Pathology, The ohio State University
Fresh produce safety can become complicated quickly when gardeners encounter real-world situations that do not have simple yes-or-no answers. In this 50-minute presentation, participants will explore some of the most challenging food safety questions commonly asked by home and community gardeners and learn how to provide practical, science-based guidance.
Topics will include what to do with fruits and vegetables when a garden has been exposed to floodwater or possible herbicide drift, whether Cyclospora is a meaningful concern for gardeners, and how pets and wildlife can affect the microbial safety of garden produce. The presentation will also address common questions about production systems, including whether organic produce is inherently safer than conventionally grown produce and whether hydroponic production reduces food safety risks.
Using realistic scenarios, the session will emphasize how to evaluate risk, recognize situations in which produce should not be consumed, and communicate recommendations when the answer depends on the type and extent of contamination. Participants will leave with a stronger understanding of the principles behind fresh produce safety recommendations and greater confidence in answering difficult questions from gardeners, consumers, and community members.
BIO
Drs. Melanie Lewis Ivey and Sanja Ilic are state Extension Specialists and co-leaders of the OSU Extension Fruit and Vegetable Safety Team. For more than 15 years, they have conducted research on fresh produce safety and translated those findings into practical, science-based education for growers, gardeners, educators, and other stakeholders. Together, they have developed and delivered multiple produce safety programs designed for diverse production systems, from commercial farms to small-scale and community gardens. Through research, Extension programming, and direct stakeholder engagement, Drs. Lewis Ivey and Ilic have helped bridge the gap between food safety science and real-world decision-making, improving the ability of farmers and gardeners to recognize risks, respond appropriately, and protect the safety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
11:30 a.m. Breakout Sessions
Breakout Session 1
What's Wrong with My Lawn? Diagnosing and Solving Turfgrass ProblemsShaohui Wu, Assistant Professor / Turfgrass Health Specialist, Ohio State University
Turfgrass health is subject to environmental stresses and biotic factors such as pests and diseases. This presentation will address problem solving skills in proper diagnosis of the causing factors and management of turfgrass pests and diseases. The topic will cover the steps and key factors to consider in diagnosing turfgrass health related issues and management strategies with chemical and non-chemical approaches using case studies.
BIO
Dr. Shaohui Wu is an Assistant Professor and Turfgrass Health Specialist (55% extension, 20% research, 15% teaching, 10% service) in Depts. of Entomology (60%) & Plant Pathology (40%) at The Ohio State University. She has expertise in turfgrass pest and disease management and microbial biocontrol.
Breakout Session 2
Grace in the Garden: Designing with Ornamental Grasses
Beth Scheckelhoff, Assistant Professor, Ohio State University Extension
Discover how ornamental grasses and grass-like plants bring unmatched texture, motion, and year-round structure to the garden. This session will explore plant selections for different garden sites and include best practices for care and long-term managemen. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, you will leave inspired to garden with ornamental grasses in the future!
BIO
Beth Scheckelhoff has been with OSU Extension since 2005, working with horticultural and agricultural producers in NW Ohio. She regularly teaches MGV training classes and shares information on ornamentals, fruit and vegetable crops, and more with clientele across Ohio.
Breakout Session 3
Tracking Nature's Clock: Building Ohio's Next Generation Phenology Calendar
Ashley Kulhanek, Assistant Professor, Ohio State University Extension
Learn about phenology and the Ohio phenology calendar, plans for the future, and how you can help improve it!
BIO
Ashley is an Extension Educator for Agriculture and Natural Resources for OSU Extension and has been in Medina County for the past 13 years. She has a Masters in Entomology from OSU and specializes in insects, phenology, and invasive species. She is a self-described bug nerd and crazy cat lady. She loves helping to answer your strange bug questions.