Dig Into Summer at Morris’ 55th Annual Horticulture Night
It’s that time of year when the gardens are bursting with color, the sun hangs high in the sky, and the community comes together to celebrate everything that grows. That’s right. Horticulture Night is back in Morris!
Join us for the 55th Annual Horticulture Night on Thursday, July 31, 2025, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC). Whether you’re a lifelong gardener or just looking for a fun (and free!) way to spend a summer evening, this beloved local event has something for everyone.
A Garden Party Like No Other
Wander through the stunning Display Garden, where annuals are blooming in every color. This is no ordinary flower show. Many of the plants you’ll see are part of the All-American Selections trials, a rigorous, nationally recognized testing program that evaluates new flower, vegetable, and herb varieties for their garden performance across North America. You’ll get a sneak peek at what could be next year’s top performers!
Be sure to cast your vote in the Consumer Voting for Favorite Annuals! Your opinion matters, and the top picks will be featured in this fall’s annual flower report. It’s a little like reality TV for flowers—minus the drama.
Get the Dirt on Growing
Our featured keynote speaker this year is Andrew Gapinski, executive director of the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. He will be sharing insights on the importance of public gardens, why they matter and how they help communities thrive.
And that’s just the beginning! You’ll also find a variety of expert-led talks and hands-on demonstrations, including:
🌱Perennials with Jean's the Right Plant Place
🌱Apple breeding in Minnesota and beyond
🌱 Soil health and processes (with a live demonstration)
🌱 Tomato grafting (also demo-style—watch and learn!)
🌱 A guided prairie restoration walk
🌱 Hands-on activities for all ages
Whether you’re an aspiring horticulturist or a backyard hobbyist, these sessions are designed to inform, inspire, and maybe even give you a few brag-worthy gardening tricks to take home.
Beyond the Garden
Not everything is rooted in the garden. There’s plenty more to explore:
- Take a walking tour of the Display Garden
- Check out the renewable energy demonstrations
- Visit the WCROC farm for a behind-the-scenes tour
- Browse local vendor booths for unique products and garden goodies
It’s like a science fair, farmers market, and field day all rolled into one vibrant evening.
Fuel Up and Have Fun
New this year: Food trucks! Grab a bite of something local and delicious while you enjoy live music on the grounds. It’s the perfect summer night combo; good food, good tunes, and gorgeous scenery.
Before you head off to explore, don’t forget to stop by the registration table and enter to win a Yeti cooler; a prize as cool as the evening breeze.
A Night for Everyone
Whether you’re bringing the kids, your plant-loving neighbor, or just treating yourself to an evening outdoors, Horticulture Night is for you. It’s a celebration of plants, people, and the power of learning together.
Admission is free, with free-will donations welcome. The event is proudly sponsored by the Edna Johnson Garden Education Fund, helping grow this cherished tradition year after year.
Come Grow With Us!
Mark your calendars, grab your sunhat, and we’ll see you in the garden on July 31st. From flower lovers to curious minds, everyone is welcome to dig in and enjoy a summer evening in full bloom.