Christmas tree growers are invited to attend a regional Christmas Tree Seminar and Trade Show from 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Feb. 22, at Novosel Civic Center, Indiana, Pa., according to Robert Pollock, Indiana County Extension agent.

The seminar is sponsored by Penn State Cooperative Extension and Indiana County Christmas Tree Growers Association. The program will focus on topics related to the production and marketing of Christmas trees, including miticides, tax tips for Christmas tree growers, pesticide safety, key insect problems, weed control-tree of heaven, how to prepare for a WPS compliance check, and managing Canaan fir for improved post-harvest quality.

Speakers include Dr. Rick Bates and Mike Jacobson from Pennsylvania State University; Rayanne Lehman, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture; and John Holowid, Cooperative Extension in Erie County.

Pollock states that growers who attend the seminar will receive three category 06, 18, or 23 credits and two core credits for pesticide license re-certification.

A trade show featuring commercial exhibits also will be a part of the seminar. The trade show is an opportunity for attendees to visit with vendors who supply products for their industry.

Registration fee is $20 per person, which includes lunch, refreshments and printed materials. Reservations are due by Friday at Indiana County Cooperative Extension office. Pre-registration is required. No walk-in registrations will be accepted. Commercial exhibitors should contact Chuck Flinn at (724) 465-5685.

For further information about the seminar and/or a registration form, contact Indiana County Cooperative Extension office, 827 Water Street, Indiana, PA 15701; call (724) 465-3880 or e-mail at indianaext@psu.edu