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You've completed the project. The client is happy. Your team has moved on to the next job. So why take the time to enter an awards program? For past winners of the Texas Excellence in Landscaping Awards (TEIL), the answer goes beyond bringing home an award. TEIL gives Texas green industry professionals an opportunity to document their best work, recognize the people behind it and earn industry recognition for what their companies have accomplished. With the October 5 application deadline approaching, we asked recent winners what earning a TEIL Award meant to them. Recognition for the Work Your Team Is Already DoingFor Southern Botanical, earning a TEIL Award provides outside recognition of the quality its teams deliver.
Jeanette Gallardo, Marketing Coordinator at Southern Botanical, also has simple advice for companies wondering whether they should enter: “If you’re on the fence about applying, do it: the recognition speaks for itself.” There's an important point in that advice: your team has already done the difficult part. The project has been designed, installed, maintained or transformed. Entering TEIL gives you an opportunity to document that accomplishment and put the team's work in front of industry peers. An Award Can Help Build Your Company's ReputationFor Set Roots owner Kyle McLaughlin, TEIL recognition became part of a much larger company story. After purchasing the company in 2017 following 12 years working for a large commercial landscape maintenance firm, McLaughlin says Set Roots initially took on smaller projects because those were the opportunities available to the company. As the business grew, so did the work.
For him personally, the recognition represented something more. He described reaching that level as a remarkable achievement, something he hadn’t imagined would be possible when the company was getting started. That’s one of the strongest reasons to consider entering. The project you’re completing today could become part of the story you tell about your company tomorrow Even the Submission Process Can Have ValueWinning isn't the only benefit. Landscape architect Matt W. Stevens began submitting projects to TEIL a few years after starting his own company and overseeing the installation of his designs. He found value in the process itself. “The process gave me a chance to self-reflect and share my process with others.” The project photography he gathered for his entries also became material he could use on his own website. Stevens says he values having a statewide organization that can validate the work being done in the landscape design-build industry. Gallardo shared a similar perspective, noting that preparing a submission can “deepen your appreciation for the work your team has already accomplished. Think Your Project Isn't Award-Worthy? Take Another Look.TEIL recognizes outstanding Texas landscape projects across residential and commercial installation, maintenance, design, special projects and unique features. Your project doesn't have to look like someone else's winning project. Instead, consider the story behind your own work.
A strong TEIL entry doesn't require complicated marketing language. Start with a clear challenge → solution → result, then use strong project photography to support the story. Your Work Is Done. Don't Let the Opportunity Pass.If you've already started a TEIL application, now is the time to finish it. If you haven't started, there is still time to put your project forward. Applications close October 5. TEIL is open to green industry professionals with projects in Texas, and TNLA membership is not required. Entry fees are $250 for TNLA members and $300 for nonmembers. Winners will be recognized February 23, 2027, at the TNLA Awards Festival during the Lone Star Hort Forum in Waco. Your team did the work. Give them the opportunity to have it recognized. Questions? Contact Amber Aultman at [email protected] or call 512-579-3864.
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 Education, innovation, leadership and connection filled three days in San Antonio and set the stage for a new chapter in Houston. View all photos here: https://ismaelphoto.pixieset.com/tnla8128132026/ August 11–13, 2026 • Henry B. González Convention Center • San Antonio, Texas From the first education sessions on Tuesday morning to the final conversations on the trade show floor Thursday afternoon, Nursery/Landscape EXPO 2026 showed what it means to be Born to Win. Landscapers, irrigators, retail garden centers, suppliers, growers, designers, educators and emerging professionals came together to sharpen their skills, discover new solutions and strengthen the relationships that move Texas’ green industry forward. The three-day event paired practical learning with hands-on demonstrations, a busy exhibit floor, leadership and professional recognition, advocacy support and the kind of informal conversation that often becomes the beginning of the next partnership, purchase or big idea. Education set the paceTuesday Education Day opened EXPO with a full slate of continuing education and business training. Sessions met professionals where they work, with content for irrigation, landscape operations, nursery production, retail, design, arboriculture, workforce development and company leadership. Attendees explored irrigation flow monitoring, drought planning and drainage; standard operating procedures, employment branding and leadership accountability; Texas plants, pest management, soil genomics and tree health; and practical business topics such as hardscape profitability and new service-line growth. A full-day design graphics workshop gave participants hands-on practice communicating ideas, while other sessions connected growers and designers, translated campus-scale vision into built landscapes and examined the details that carry a project from concept through construction. The learning continued on the show floor Wednesday and Thursday. Demonstrations and short-form sessions covered AI-powered takeoffs, customer service that supports sales, irrigation technology, tree injection, propagation of adaptable Texas plants, CAD planning, biophilic design and workforce development. Together, the classroom and demonstration formats gave attendees multiple ways to learn, earn CEUs and bring practical ideas back to their teams. A first look for first-time attendeesBefore the trade show floor opened Wednesday, 60 first-time attendees joined the Newcomers Tour more than double the 28 participants who joined the previous year. The guided preview helped newcomers get oriented, understand the show’s layout and identify the exhibitors, education areas and gathering spaces most relevant to their goals. That early access mattered. Once the opening ceremonies concluded and the exhibit halls came to life, attendees had two days to compare products, talk directly with suppliers, watch live demonstrations and reconnect with colleagues from across the state. Connections that go beyond the show floorEXPO has always been about more than products and presentations. Tuesday evening’s Women in Horticulture Nightcap created an informal place to connect after Education Day, and Wednesday’s Women in Horticulture Get Together welcomed 300 attendees. Stephanie Hertzog, President, West Region, at SiteOne Landscape Supply, joined the gathering as featured speaker. Attendees heard from an industry leader, made new connections and supported TNLA PAC through the raffle of a Jon Hart 360 Carry-On Bag. The event reflected the energy of a growing network that is creating more opportunities for women to lead, learn and support one another across the green industry. At the close of Wednesday’s show hours, the Welcome to San Antonio Party gave attendees and exhibitors a chance to relax and socialize after a full day of conversations, demonstrations and business on the floor. The Certified Professionals’ Reception followed, recognizing the credentialed professionals whose ongoing education and expertise strengthen the standards of the industry. Recognizing creativity on the trade show floorContinuing a long-standing EXPO tradition, the Best Booth Awards, selected by the EXPO Chair, recognized exhibitors whose displays stood out for presentation, creativity and attendee experience. Congratulations to the 2026 honorees:
A new year of TNLA leadership Thursday morning’s Annual Business Meeting gave members a chance to look back, recognize service and begin the Association’s new fiscal year with purpose. Sponsored by Abbott-IPCO, the meeting featured TNLA’s Year in Review video and highlighted the collective work of members whose businesses contribute to a Texas green industry with a $40 billion economic impact. TNLA thanked departing board members Jackie Smith, Absolute Accents, Inc.; Gerry Bower, TLC Total Lawn Care; Ben Collinsworth, Yellowstone Landscape; Mark Manny, EverGro Organic Recycling; Robbie Aballama, ICL Growing Solutions; and Bobby Eichholz, Rialto Studio, for the time, perspective and leadership they contributed to the Association. The gavel then passed from Immediate Past Chair Devin Guinn to 2026–2027 Chair Kyle Cahill. Cahill challenged members to stay involved through their regions, education, advocacy and the conversations that shape the industry’s future. The message was clear: a strong, unified industry voice depends on professionals who continue to show up and lead. 2026–2027 TNLA Board of Directors Advocacy in actionTNLA PAC support was visible throughout EXPO from the PAC Lounge and Women in Horticulture raffle to Thursday’s PAC drawing. These contributions help the Texas green industry maintain a strong voice and build the relationships needed to engage on the policies that affect member businesses, their employees and their customers. Diamond Members — $2,000+Diamond members are also Platinum members by default.  Additional Platinum Members — $500+ Listed in addition to the Diamond members recognized above.  Gold Star Companies Four participating individuals from one company; minimum $50 each.  Silver Star Companies Three participating individuals from one company; minimum $50 each.  Bronze Star Companies Two participating individuals from one company; minimum $50 each.  Thank you to the sponsors who made EXPO possible EXPO’s education, attendee services, special events, professional recognition and show-floor experiences are strengthened by companies and partners willing to invest in the industry. TNLA extends its appreciation to the 2026 sponsors and in-kind contributors listed below. 2026 EXPO sponsors and in-kind contributors Next stop: HoustonThe next Nursery/Landscape EXPO will bring the industry back to Houston, August 18–20, 2027, at the George R. Brown Convention Center. The 2027 theme, Where Vision Meets Magic, celebrates the extraordinary community that makes the green industry unlike any other. Landscapers, irrigators, retail garden centers, suppliers and growers share a remarkable ability to transform vision into living, working and gathering spaces that are both functional and breathtaking. When the right people come together, EXPO becomes more than a trade show. It becomes a place where ideas take root, relationships grow and possibilities become real. Save the date: August 18–20, 2027 • Houston, Texas Watch for updates at NurseryLandscapeEXPO.org.  Texas landscapes face significant challenges during periods of extreme summer heat. High temperatures, drought, and inconsistent rainfall can stress trees, shrubs, turfgrass, and ornamental plants, making them more vulnerable to insect pests. For landscape professionals, effective pest management during these conditions requires more than simply applying an insecticides, it requires careful scouting, proper irrigation, and timely intervention. Scout Before You SprayRegular scouting is the foundation of an effective integrated pest management (IPM) program. Heat-stressed plants may show symptoms such as curling, yellowing, wilting, premature leaf drop, or leaf scorch, which can be mistaken for insect damage. Before applying pesticides, inspect plants carefully to determine whether insects are present. Manage Irrigation CarefullyProper irrigation is an important component of landscape pest management. Drought-stressed plants may be less tolerant of insect feeding, while excessive irrigation can promote lush, susceptible growth and create favorable conditions for certain pests and diseases. Landscape professionals should irrigate deeply and appropriately for the plant and site rather than relying on frequent, shallow watering. Monitor soil moisture and adjust irrigation based on plant needs, soil type, weather conditions, and exposure. Avoid unnecessary overhead irrigation, when possible, particularly during periods of high humidity or when foliage remains wet for extended periods. Treat StrategicallyIf a pest population reaches a level that warrants treatment, select the least disruptive effective management option. Insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils can be useful against exposed soft-bodied insects and mites when applied correctly. However, thorough coverage is essential, and applications should be made according to the product label. Always check the label for heat-related application restrictions. Some products can cause phytotoxicity when applied during very high temperatures or to drought-stressed plants. When conditions are unsuitable for pesticide applications, correcting plant stress and delaying treatment until temperatures moderate may be the better approach. Keep MonitoringPest management does not end after an application. Continue scouting treated areas to determine whether pest populations are declining and whether additional action is necessary. Avoid calendar-based pesticide applications when pest populations do not justify treatment. During extreme Texas heat, successful landscape pest management comes down to scouting carefully, managing water wisely, and treating only when necessary. An IPM-based approach protects plant health, reduces unnecessary pesticide use, and helps landscape professionals maintain attractive and resilient landscapes throughout the summer.
A recent field evaluation at Houston City College’s Katy campus explored whether MitoGrow, a biostimulant could improve the growth of established Mexican sycamore trees in the landscape. The trial began in June 2024 and included 16 trees planted in 2022, although two were lost during Hurricane Beryl. All trees received an application of 19-4-7 fertilizer, while selected groups also received one, two, or three MitoGrow applications at 0.16 ounce per gallon. Researchers measured tree height and trunk diameter at breast height (DBH) from May 2024 to July 2025. While statistical analysis showed that treatment differences were not significant overall, the height response approached significance, suggesting a possible positive effect from MitoGrow, especially with repeated applications. Trees treated three times showed the strongest growth response, with mean height increasing 24.14% and final height averaging 20.58 feet, compared with 16.71 feet in the fertilizer-only control. That represented a 23.2% increase over the control. DBH results were more variable, but the three-application treatment again performed best, reaching 4.64 inches versus 3.53 inches in the control, or a 31.4% increase over fertilizer alone. One and two applications also improved performance, though to a lesser degree. At an estimated cost of $2.75 per tree per application, MitoGrow may offer landscape managers a relatively affordable way to encourage shoot growth in Mexican sycamores. The authors concluded that additional trials are needed to refine application strategies and better understand where this product delivers the greatest benefit. Here’s the link to the entire report: https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/green-industry-briefs-evaluation-of-mitogrow-on-planted-mexican-sycamore/01tQn00000I21YjIAJ
East Texas Greenhouse and Nursery Pest Management Seminar Brings Industry Professionals Together8/19/2026 The East Texas Greenhouse and Nursery Pest Management Seminar recently brought together 20 green industry professionals for a day of education, discussion, and networking focused on the latest integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for greenhouse and nursery production. Hosted by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension in Overton, the seminar provided timely, research-based information to help growers, nursery managers, landscape professionals, and other green industry stakeholders address emerging pest challenges while improving crop quality and sustainability. The program featured a diverse lineup of experts covering key aspects of greenhouse and nursery production. Mark Freeman and Sam Gray of BioWorks discussed how biopesticides fit into modern IPM systems. Dr. Kevin Ong, Professor and Associate Department Head with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, presented Starting Clean and Keeping Clean, emphasizing a systems approach to managing greenhouse plant diseases. Dr. Rafia Khan, Extension Entomologist, shared updates on emerging and established greenhouse pests of ornamental crops, highlighting effective monitoring and management strategies. Desaray Melina Delaloza, Inspector with the Texas Department of Agriculture, reviewed current nursery and greenhouse laws and regulations. The afternoon sessions focused on ecological and cultural practices that strengthen pest management programs. Dr. Arash Kheirodin, Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Dallas, presented on ecologically based integrated pest management for controlled environment cropping systems. Dr. Andrew King, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Overton, concluded the program by discussing horticultural practices that support IPM and promote healthy ornamental production. Throughout the day, participants engaged with speakers, exchanged experiences, and discussed practical solutions to pest management challenges facing the ornamental industry. These interactions reinforced the value of collaboration between researchers, Extension specialists, regulatory agencies, and industry professionals in developing effective and sustainable management practices. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension appreciates the participation and enthusiasm of everyone who attended. Educational programs like this seminar provide valuable opportunities for continuing education, knowledge exchange, and strengthening partnerships that support a thriving nursery and greenhouse industry across Texas.
From student volunteer to business owner and Region V State Director, Rachel Shelton’s story shows how getting involved can shape a career, strengthen a community and open the door to new possibilities.  From her earliest TNLA experiences as a student to her new role on the TNLA Board of Directors, Rachel Shelton’s career has been shaped by one important choice: getting involved. Today, Rachel is the owner of 573 Flower Farm and the 2026–2027 TNLA Region V State Director. Long before becoming a business owner or board leader, however, she was building relationships through TNLA, volunteering at Nursery/Landscape EXPO and learning from people across the green industry. Over the years, Rachel has participated in TNLA’s Leadership Boot Camp, supported Women in Horticulture and received the 2023 Young Leader Award. Each experience has given her opportunities to learn, serve and grow, both personally and professionally. Her story reflects what it means to be rooted in something bigger: belonging to an industry community where people share knowledge, encourage one another and help create opportunities for the next generation. You participated in TNLA’s Leadership Boot Camp early in your career. Are there any lessons you still carry with you today? The development I gained through Leadership Boot Camp still resonates with me today. You aren’t only learning how to grow your business, you’re learning how to grow yourself and the people around you. After years with a longtime TNLA member company, you recently took the exciting step of launching your own business. What inspired you to take that leap? My husband’s unwavering support and willingness to be up for anything helped bring this dream to life and grow 573 Flower Farm. Working for Jackie Smith (owner of Absolute Equipment Sales) also gave me the courage to start my own business. I was given so many opportunities while working for him that, eventually, I thought, “Why not me?” Congratulations on being elected as Region V State Director. What does serving on the TNLA Board of Directors mean to you, and what are you most looking forward to? Serving on the Board means a great deal to me. Once I became involved at the Region level, I knew I wanted to pour myself into TNLA in a deeper way. What I’m looking forward to most is growth, helping TNLA grow while continuing to grow personally and professionally. What advice would you give to students and young professionals who are just beginning their careers in the green industry? Get involved and ask questions. There are opportunities waiting for you to reach out and grab them. So many people in this industry and association want to help you, so be willing to show up and do the work. In one sentence, what does being part of the TNLA community mean to you? It means belonging to a place where people support you, knowledge never ends, advice is freely shared, although you may want to take some of it with a grain of salt, and growth is possible when you’re willing to put in the work. Rachel’s journey, from student participation and volunteer service to entrepreneurship and board leadership, shows what can happen when someone finds their community, gets involved and keeps showing up.
Whether you are a student, an emerging professional, a business owner or a longtime industry leader, there is a place for you in the TNLA community. Learn more about TNLA membership and ways to get involved be clicking the button below! |
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September 2026
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