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Learn how floating gardens improve water quality and provide pollinator habitat during a special tour at the 2026 MU Extension Master Gardener State Conference, June 4-7 in Springfield. Built with lightweight materials and native plants, these systems put roots to work cleaning our waterways. Photo courtesy of Kelly McGowan.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Learn how to build a garden that floats on water at the 2026 University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener State Conference, June 4-7 in Springfield.
During one of the tours at the home of a local Master Gardener, attendees can learn how floating gardens improve water quality, filter pollutants naturally and create habitat for pollinators and wildlife
“Built from lightweight materials and planted with natives, these floating systems develop powerful root structures that help clean our waterways, reducing the need for chemicals,” says MU Extension horticulturist Kelly McGowan.
Other tours will visit the Baker Creek Seed sorting facility, Ozarks Food Harvest’s Full Circle Gardens, Springfield-area home gardens, Extension Master Gardener demonstration gardens and local parks. There will be shuttle service for off-site tours and classes.
The conference theme, “Seeds to Table – Cultivating Health and Sustainability,” reflects a focus on connecting gardeners from across the state while building skills in vegetable, herb and native plant gardening using environmentally responsible practices, McGowan said.
In addition to tours, the conference features breakout sessions, networking opportunities and hands-on activities. London-born chef-turned-gardener Mitch McCulloch will serve as the banquet keynote speaker and will be available to sign his latest book, “The Seed Hunter,” which focuses on preserving rare and endangered heirloom vegetables.
The weekend also includes an on-site trade show designed to inspire attendees as they head into the growing season, McGowan said.
Master Gardeners of Greene County will host the conference at the Oasis Hotel and Convention Center in Springfield.
In addition to this learning opportunity, the Missouri Master Gardener Association will hold a conference Oct. 2-3. This hybrid event combines statewide virtual learning with local in-person watch parties. More information.
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Floating garden. Learn how floating gardens improve water quality and provide pollinator habitat during a special tour at the 2026 MU Extension Master Gardener State Conference, June 4–7 in Springfield. Built with lightweight materials and native plants, these systems put roots to work cleaning our waterways. Photo courtesy of Kelly McGowan.
