Register now to secure your spot!

September 16, 2026 | 4:00 – 6:00 pm

Van Wilgens Garden Center, 1198 Queen St., Southington

Join the Connecticut Nursery & Landscape Association (CNLA) for Bloom After Hours, an exclusive networking and educational event designed to promote collaboration and professional development within Connecticut’s horticultural community. These gatherings provide CNLA members with unique access to industry-leading companies, expert-led sessions, and the latest best practices in the green industry.

Lessons Learned: What Didn’t Work and What We Did Instead

Some of the best ideas come from lessons learned along the way. Join fellow industry professionals as we share real-world experiences, discuss what we would do differently, and explore solutions that led to success. Come ready to gain valuable insights, exchange ideas, and, if you’re comfortable, share a lesson from your own experience. This is a supportive, judgment-free conversation focused on helping each other grow and succeed.

About Dustyn Nelson CCH:

Dustyn has a diverse background in the green and landscaping industry. Prior to joining Frank’s Landscape Construction, Dustyn worked in the nursery industry, with experience in growing, production planning, logistics, and inventory. He also has experience in troubleshooting plant problems, floriculture, marketing, and information technology management.

Dustyn is a Connecticut Certified Horticulturalist and a Past President of the Connecticut Nursery & Landscape Association. He also is an Adjunct Faculty at the University of Connecticut, teaching Garden Center Management. In 2016 Dustyn was recognized as Young Nursery Professional of the Year by the New England Nursery Association.

About Van Wilgens:

Van Wilgen’s Garden Center is a fourth-generation, family-owned Connecticut business that has been serving gardeners and landscape professionals since 1920. Their newest location in Southington opened in 2026 and continues the company’s tradition of providing quality plants, gardening products, and expert advice to help customers create successful landscapes and gardens.

About Bloom After Hours:

Bloom After Hours is designed to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and community building within the Connecticut horticultural industry. These programs offer CNLA members a unique opportunity to visit fellow member companies, engage in informative educational sessions, and learn more about the latest trends and practice in the green industry.