The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Foundation Retirement Attraction program are hosting a Landscaping Camp featuring Jeff McManus from the University of Mississippi in May in Oxford.

McManus’ expertise in landscaping has earned the university accolades of being named, “The Most Beautiful Campus,” by a number of national publications including Newsweek 2011 and just recently in the USA Today’s Readers’ Choice competition.

“We’re excited to say that this unique event has already begun attracting interest from all across the United States stated,” Rosie Vassallo, director of Retirement Attraction, said. “We have an Early Bird special going on right now for $300 through Jan. 31, after that the cost will be $375.”

The camp will be held May 26-28 at The Inn at Ole Miss, the host hotel. While cost for the camp does not include accommodations, The Inn has discounted rates for those attending the event.

During the two-and-a half-day camp, each participant will receive two books written by Jeff McManus at the Opening Dinner/Book Signing.

Among some of the activities already planned, one will be able to immerse themselves on a tour of the beautiful Ole Miss Campus, while learning secrets from Jeff McManus; attend educational seminars on how to prune your shrubs including choosing the right time, as well as “Creating a Bird-Friendly Landscape,” with Kristin Lamberson from the Strawberry Plains Audubon Center. Attendants will also receive timesaving tips for a low maintenance yard.

In addition, Peng Lee, former Research Scientist of The National Center for Physical Acoustics, will speak on “How To Grow Fig Trees.”

To top it off, three tours will also take place en route via the famous Double Decker Bus to the stunning landscaped homes of Dickie and Dianne Scruggs and Sam and Mary Haskell, which are both inspired by McManus, as well as a tour of the beautiful and historical city of Oxford.

“This Landscaping Camp idea derived from the many accolades of the Ole Miss campus and how Americans love to spend time in beautifying their yard season to season, actually turning their yard into another inviting space to welcome family and friends,” Vassallo said.

According to “Good Housekeeping,” 75 percent of American homeowners spend time or money or both tending to their lawns.

University’s beauty has attracted a number of prospective students to Ole Miss, as well as residents to Oxford. Appearance adds to home values, helps attract business investment, and just improves the overall neighborhood reputation, stated Pamela Roberson with Rebel Realty and Property Management.

“Research shows that beauty is one of the top three factors in creating community attachment, or loyalty, to your particular town, city or neighborhood,” Roberson said.

Vassallo said Hospitality Sponsors are still being sought for the camp. The cost of a Hospitality Sponsorship is $400. Sponsor logos will be showcased on a welcome banner and will be listed in the camp’s program.

Interested parties can learn more as well as register by going to http://oxfordms.com/retire-in-oxford/landscaping-camp/ or contact Vassallo via email at rosie@oxfordms.com or by phone at 662-234-4651.