2026 Conference Schedule
The 2026 Conference Experience: Thriving in the Grove
This schedule is designed as a four-day progression from foundational theory to immersive practice. We begin in the heart of San Francisco at the 'Gathering Grove,' move through evidence-based research at the 'Resilience Lab,' and conclude with a study of land and legacy on Alcatraz Island.
Cultivating Place: A Keynote by Jennifer Jewell
We are honored to welcome award-winning gardening expert, Jennifer Jewell. Jewell's is an author and creator of the public radio program and podcast Cultivating Place, where she highlights the powerful connections between people, plants, and the natural world. Through her writing, speaking, and storytelling, she has inspired audiences across the country to see gardening as a meaningful, inclusive, and transformative practice.
A Narrative of Resilience: Thriving in the Grove
October 15–18, 2026 | San Francisco, CA
This year’s conference brings us together in California, a landscape shaped by its ability to adapt and endure. We invite you to explore the intersections of strength and renewal, examining how horticultural therapy serves as a catalyst for individuals and communities to grow, heal, and thrive.
A Curated Journey through San Francisco’s Most Resilient Landscapes
Our 2026 programming is intentionally rooted in the diverse ecosystems of the Bay Area, transitioning from our central base at the Marriott Union Square to the transformative "Thriving Together" day within Golden Gate Park. Attendees will experience the profound stillness of the AIDS Memorial Grove and the immersive beauty of the San Francisco Botanical Garden, culminating in a historic Sunday tour of the Alcatraz Island Gardens. Each location serves as a living classroom, illustrating how intentional stewardship and horticultural therapy can revive both the land and the human spirit.
The 2026 Conference Experience by Day
The following schedule offers a comprehensive breakdown of our four-day program. As you navigate the deep dives below, you will find a blend of traditional plenary sessions, hands-on field workshops, and interactive exhibits designed to advance both clinical practice and professional networking.
Thursday, October 15
The Gathering Grove
Logistics & Arrival
Location: Marriott Union Square, 30th Floor
Check-in: Registration opens at 5:00 PM PT
Upon arrival, join us on the 30th floor for an elevated start to the weekend. The evening begins against a backdrop of the San Francisco skyline, offering panoramic views of the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Pacific sunset (scheduled for 6:30 PM PT).
The Welcome Reception
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM PT
Presented by the Horticultural Therapy Institute (HTI) Celebrate the start of the 2026 conference with a light, hosted dinner. This event is designed for connection, providing an opportunity to reconnect with peers and partners as the city transitions from day to night.
The Moth Hour: Stories of Resilience
Time: Post Reception
To officially open the conference in community, we invite you to participate in our "Moth Hour." In this curated storytelling session, attendees are invited to share a three-minute narrative centered on resilience, whether within a garden, a practice, or a personal journey. We welcome the fun, the poignant, and the profound as we set the tone for the days ahead.
Friday, October 16
Voices & Vision
Logistics & Arrival
Location: Marriott Union Square, 2nd Floor
Check-in: Registration and badge pick-up open at 7:30 AM PT.
All Friday programming is hosted on the second floor of the Marriott. We recommend arriving early to secure your materials and connect with colleagues before the opening remarks.
Morning: The Visionary Core
Time: 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM PT
- Opening Remarks & Welcome: A formal introduction to the conference's strategic goals and the state of the association.
- Keynote Address: Jennifer Jewell, Cultivating Place. An exploration of the powerful connections between people, plants, and the natural world, setting the conceptual foundation for the weekend.
Midday - Afternoon: Interactive Learning & Professional Advancement
Time: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM PT
The Midday Break
- Buffet Lunch: A hosted meal on the 2nd floor, designed for informal networking and peer discussion.
Knowledge Exchange & Concurrent Sessions
- Educational Tracks: A series of breakout presentations, panels, and workshops led by industry experts.
- Regional Gatherings: Connect with your local HT community during dedicated breakout sessions.
- Association Meeting & Awards: Honoring excellence in the field and discussing the future of the AHTA.
The Wellness & Resource Hub
- Plants & Paws Area: A sensory-focused "recharge" zone featuring puppies and tactile plant displays to mitigate "conference fatigue."
- Professional Identity: Complimentary professional headshots available for all attendees to support your digital presence.
Saturday, October 17
Thriving Together
Logistics & Field Preparation
Location: San Francisco Botanical Garden & AIDS Memorial Grove

Transport: Chartered bus transportation departs from the Marriott Union Square.
This is a full day of indoor and outdoor programming within Golden Gate Park. To ensure a seamless experience, we recommend supportive footwear and layered clothing to accommodate San Francisco’s shifting coastal microclimates.
Morning: Leadership in Conservation
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM PT
- Opening Address: Stephanie Linder, CEO of Gardens of Golden Gate Park. As the leader behind the landmark merger of the Conservatory of Flowers, Japanese Tea Garden, and SF Botanical Garden, Linder offers a masterclass in nonprofit leadership and park conservation. Her address explores the vital role of public gardens in urban resilience and community health.
Midday-Afternoon: The Innovation & Research Hub
Time: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM PT
Through a series of interactive exhibits and workshops, this afternoon focuses on the evolution and standardization of the profession.
- The Resilience Lab Exhibit: A research-grounded hub featuring "Resilience Exchange" (evidence-based research) and "Seeds of Strength" (the intersection of plant physiology and metaphorical human care).
- Pioneers & Pathways: An interactive timeline tracing the history of Horticultural Therapy, featuring an Internship & Mentorship Exchange Hub to connect seasoned professionals with the next generation.
- Setting the Standard: A dedicated deep dive into the brand-new HT-BC Credential, introducing the gold standard for excellence in board-certified horticultural therapy.
- Experiential Learning: Hands-on workshops, certificate program showcases, and guided botanical tours across the park’s diverse landscapes.
Late Afternoon: The Closing Circle
Time: 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM PT
- A Sacred Space: We conclude the day with a reflective procession into the AIDS Memorial Grove.
- Legacy & Meaning: Executive Director John Cunningham shares the history of this living memorial, followed by a special tribute to the late HT pioneer Clare Cooper Marcus, featuring a presentation from her family.
- Final Reflection: A guided closing circle led by Jennifer Jewell, providing a collective space to honor our shared journey and the paths that lie ahead.
Sunday, October 18
Honoring Land and Legacy
Logistics & Expedition Details
Departure: Mid-morning ferry departure from Pier 33.
Site Preparation: This field study involves significant walking, stairs, and exposure to coastal weather. We recommend layers, sun protection, and comfortable footwear. Note: Mobility assistance is available for those who require it.
Return: Refreshments will be served on the return ferry. Attendees may choose to extend their stay on the island to experience the historic prison audio tour independently.
Morning & Early Afternoon: The Alcatraz Gardens Study
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM PT
Through a combination of formal presentation and guided exploration, we examine the intersection of stewardship and social history.
- Keynote Presentation: Shelagh Fritz, Senior Program Manager. Ms. Fritz leads a deep dive into the layered history of the Alcatraz and Black Point Historic Gardens. Her presentation explores how Indigenous knowledge, the labor of incarcerated individuals, and modern stewardship have transformed this landscape into a living space of resilience and care.
- Curated Garden Tour: Following the presentation, Ms. Fritz and her team of docents will lead a guided tour through the historic gardens. This immersive walk highlights the specific plant species and horticultural techniques that have allowed these gardens to thrive in a harsh maritime environment, serving as a powerful metaphor for the persistence of the human spirit.
A Legacy of Impact: Preview the Experience
Curious about the depth of our sessions and the caliber of our speakers? While every year brings new innovations to the field, our commitment to rigorous, evidence-based content remains constant. Explore our previous conference programming to see how we bridge the gap between clinical research and hands-on practice, and discover why this gathering is the premier annual event for horticultural therapy professionals nationwide.