The Speaking of Gardening symposium Aug. 24-25 at the N.C. Arboretum will bring some of the world’s finest gardeners to Asheville.

The annual symposium is a popular event for horticulture professionals and enthusiasts. This year’s event features speakers from the U.S., the United Kingdom and Japan presenting lectures on creative design and cutting-edge plants. A number of lectures are scheduled this year, as well as book signings and live and silent plant auctions showcasing rare and unusual plants.

The keynote speaker is Mike Buffin, Gardens and Parks Adviser for the National Trust of the United Kingdom. He provides technical advice for historic gardens and parks in London, Southeast England, and Northern Ireland. Among Buffin’s published works are Winter Flowering Shrubs and The Illustrated Guide to Trees.

Lectures scheduled for the symposium include:

• Plants Come First; Imagine That!, presented by Jenks Farmer.

• The Evolution of Japanese Horticulture, presented by Takayuki Kobayashi.

• Is it a Vegetable, Fruit or Ornamental?, led by Rita Pelczar.

• Growing Plants in a Global Greenhouse, by Mike Buffin.

• Soul Gardening, led by Jenks Farmer.

• Ornamental and Edible Selections & Trends in Japanese Horticulture, presented by Takayuki Kobayashi.

Registration for the symposium is $145 for Arboretum members and $170 for non-members. The fee includes lectures, book signings, lunches and snacks for both days. Seating is limited and registration is required. 828.665.2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org.