SAF Pest and Production Management Conference looks at successful growing strategies

Society of American Florists’ 27th annual Pest and Production Management Conference will be held Feb. 24-26 in San Diego. Attendees will have an opportunity to learn better ways to increase crop quality and yield, lower production costs and prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
The conference will feature 20 educational sessions that will cover increasing efficiency and profits, improving sustainable practices, preparing for new health crop challenges and connecting with consumers about environmental issues.
An optional growing operations tour on Feb. 24 will visit Mellano & Co. in Oceanside, a 3rd generation family-owned fresh cut operation that covers 400 acres and produces more than 7 million bunches of cut flowers and foliage. Altman Plants in Vista is home to the largest producer of cacti and succulents in the U.S. While also at Altman, attendees will tour the Center for Applied Horticultural Research, a non-profit organization that focuses on conducting research that provides growers with practical answers to their production-related problems.
Product suppliers also have an opportunity to showcase their products, equipment and services with a conference tabletop display. SAF is offering a $50 discount on registration to attendees through Jan. 31.