As part of its "Story of Plants and People Series," the Mississippi State Trial Gardens is sponsoring a presentation by Robert "Buddy" Lee, the inventor of Encore® Azalea, the world's best-selling multi-season blooming azalea. Lee has more than 30 years of experience in nursery management, breeding, propagation and new plant development. He currently serves as director of plant innovations for Plant Development Services, the introducers of Encore Azalea, the Southern Living Plant Collection and the new Sunset Western Garden Collection. Lee has been active in numerous horticultural groups and currently serves as board member of both the International Plant Propagators Society - Southern Region and the Louisiana Nursery and Landscape Association. He is past president of The Azalea Society of America. Refreshments will be served starting at 6 p.m., and Lee will speak at 6:30 p.m.