2026 CNGA Fall Workshop
Propagation In Practice: Tools, Techniques and Trends for Successful Propagation

This year’s Fall Workshop will take a deep dive into the art and science of successful plant propagation. Join us in person or online for a full day of practical insights and expert discussions focused on propagation techniques, tools, technology, troubleshooting, and emerging trends. Whether you’re a grower, retailer, production manager or just looking to strengthen your propagation program, this workshop will offer practical knowledge you can take back to your operation.

Schedule

Note that the afternoon sessions will be held in different rooms to accommodate attendee interests.

8:00 - 8:30        Continental Breakfast and Beverages

8:30 - 9:30        Paid to Propagate: Challenge of Propagation, Growing, and Bringing New Varieties to Market

Ross Shrigley, Plant Select 

Session Summary: Nursery production and new plant introductions are inherently risky, largely because traditional business models require growers to absorb 100% of the financial and logistical risk. This presentation highlights how Plant Select is disrupting that model by actively collaborating with and supporting nurseries to bring innovative varieties to market. Speaker Ross Shrigley will explore how Plant Select works directly with growers to lower barriers, solve propagation hurdles, and rapidly scale production numbers. Attendees will learn practical approaches for transforming high-risk plant development into a collaborative, profitable pipeline.

 9:30 - 10:15        Native Plant Propagation: How the City of Colorado Springs Uses Naturally Inspired Materials to Grow Resilient Plants

Alex Crochet, CCNP, CGG, City of CO Springs Greenhouse
Dr. Maggie Gaddis, Colorado Native Plant Society

10:15 - 10:30 BREAK

10:30 - 11:15        Laws and Regulations of Seed Collecting

Daryn Davisdon & Dr. Emma Tracy, Colorado State University 

11:15 - 12:00        Breeding the Future: The Evolution of Modern Floriculture

Jim Devereux, CEO and Owner, Green Fuse Botanicals, Inc.

Session Summary: This presentation explores how cutting-edge technologies are reshaping modern floriculture, from stunning genetic marvels like bioluminescent petunias to essential climate-resilient, drought-tolerant varieties. We will examine the latest breeding processes designed to streamline production efficiency for commercial growers while delivering high-performing, reliable plants for consumers. 

12:00 - 12:30        LUNCH

12:30 - 1:15        Germination Pre-Treatments

Brooke Palmer, Greenhouse Production Coordinator, Denver Botanic Gardens

Session Summary: Seeds can be surprisingly opinionated about when—and whether—they are ready to grow, and successful germination often starts long before a seed is sown into a propagation tray. Working in a botanic garden setting, propagating unusual plants often means figuring out exactly what those seeds are waiting for. This presentation will take a closer look at the basics of seeds and seed dormancy and explore practical ways to overcome different types of dormancies. We will cover techniques including scarification, stratification, temperature treatments, and other pre-treatments, with an emphasis on understanding why a treatment works and when to use it. Come learn a few tricks for convincing stubborn seeds that it's finally time to grow.

12:30 - 1:15        Soil Study on Native Plants and Bridging the Gap Between Horticulture and Restoration

Alex Crochet & Dr. Maggie Gaddis 

1:15 - 2:00        Practical Tissue Culture Propagation

Alex Norell, Head Young Plant Grower, Gulley Greenhouse 

Session Summary: This session will provide insight into the ins and outs of tissue culture propagation, including a brief overview of the process and how growers can successfully incorporate tissue culture into a propagation program. We will discuss key considerations for implementing a tissue culture program, proper growing environments, and common pitfalls growers may encounter along the way. 

1:15 - 2:00        Native Woody Plant Propagation

Cameran Reader, Production Supervisor, OneCanopy

Session Summary: This session will explore the practical realities of propagating woody native plants for restoration and conservation. Drawing from her hands-on experience leading production at OneCanopy, Cam will share techniques for working with native trees and shrubs—from navigating species-specific germination and propagation challenges to managing young plants through the nursery production cycle. Attendees will gain practical insights into what works, what doesn’t, and how thoughtful propagation practices can produce healthy, resilient native plant material ready for success beyond the nursery.

2:00 - 2:45        TBD 

2:00 - 2:45        Basic Grafting and Scion Collection

Scott Skogerboe, Propagator, Author, Colorado State University

Session Summary: Although fall is the wrong time to do grafting, it is the exact perfect time to start thinking about preparing for it.  Scott will give you the basics of how to do it properly.  Starting with learning the process then gathering proper tools, supplies,  rootstocks and scions.  After a short PowerPoint, he will give a demonstration on how it is done.  It's a fun and rewarding skill to learn and with a little practice you'll become proficient.

COST