|
TNLA is thrilled to introduce our new "Working for You" Blog!
Stay updated on member events and news that impact the TNLA community. In addition, check out our Green Matters Weekly Newsletter for industry news |
|
When growers and landscape professionals think about insects, the first thought is often pests and the damage they cause. However, not all insects are harmful. Many beneficial insects play an important role in naturally suppressing pest populations in greenhouses, nurseries, and landscapes. These “good bugs” are valuable partners in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs and can help reduce reliance on chemical insecticides. Beneficial insects are a key component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. They help suppress pests naturally and can improve long-term pest management success when properly conserved or introduced into production systems. Two important groups of beneficial insects are predators and parasitoids. Predators actively consume pests throughout their life cycle. Common examples include lady beetles, green lacewings, minute pirate bugs, predatory mites, and hover fly larvae. These natural enemies feed on aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, scales, thrips, and other soft-bodied pests commonly encountered in Texas greenhouses and landscapes. Parasitoids are specialized insects, usually tiny wasps, that develop inside or on a host insect and eventually kill it. Several parasitoid species are commercially available and widely used in greenhouse biological control programs, especially for whitefly and aphid management. Parasitoids are specialized insects, usually tiny wasps, that develop inside or on a host insect and eventually kill it. Several parasitoid species are commercially available and widely used in greenhouse biological control programs, especially for whitefly and aphid management. Greenhouse environments often provide ideal conditions for biological control because temperature, humidity, and pest populations can be monitored more closely. In landscapes and nurseries, conserving naturally occurring beneficial insects can also provide significant pest suppression over time. Unfortunately, beneficial populations are frequently disrupted by unnecessary or repeated applications of broad-spectrum insecticides. One of the biggest challenges in pest management is recognizing when beneficial insects are already helping control a pest problem. In some situations, professionals may apply insecticides before evaluating predator or parasitoid activity. This can eliminate natural enemies and create secondary pest outbreaks or pest resurgence. In addition, repeated use of the same insecticide groups can contribute to pesticide resistance, making future pest management more difficult. Scouting remains one of the most important tools in preserving beneficial insects. Correct identification of both pests and beneficials allows professionals to make informed treatment decisions. When insecticide applications are necessary, selecting reduced-risk or selective products can help preserve natural enemy populations while still managing key pests. Habitat also plays a role in supporting beneficial insects. Flowering plants, reduced dust, proper irrigation management, and minimizing unnecessary pesticide exposure can all encourage beneficial activity in landscapes and production systems. Biological control is not always a complete replacement for insecticides, but it is an effective management tool when incorporated into a broader IPM strategy. As greenhouse and landscape industries continue to face challenges from invasive pests, environmental concerns, and pesticide resistance, beneficial insects should not be viewed as forgotten tools. Instead, they should be recognized as valuable partners in sustainable pest management programs. Photo credit: Rafia Khan, Ph. D. Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center Overton, TX. 
0 Comments
Last week, TNLA traveled to Washington, D.C. alongside members of Texas’ green industry for the annual H-2B Fly-In. During the trip, TNLA members met directly with Congressional offices to discuss workforce challenges impacting green industry businesses across Texas. The conversations focused heavily on the seasonal H-2B VISA program. For many green industry businesses, these workers help keep projects on schedule during peak seasons while also supporting year-round American jobs within their companies. Why This Matters to Texas’ Green Industry Texas’ green industry continues to face significant workforce shortages, particularly during high-demand periods in the spring and summer. During our meetings in Washington, TNLA members had the opportunity to speak directly with Congressional staff about how these workforce challenges affect their businesses on a day-to-day basis. Members shared personal stories about trying to keep crews staffed during peak project seasons, balancing growing customer demand, and managing the uncertainty that comes with not knowing whether seasonal workers will arrive on time. Some discussed the pressure of meeting timelines for government and commercial contracts, while others explained how workforce shortages impact long-term business planning and growth. Several members also highlighted that dependable seasonal labor helps create opportunities for year-round American employees by allowing businesses to expand operations, invest in training, and move workers into higher-skilled positions over time.  One of the most impactful aspects of the trip was ensuring policymakers heard directly from employers experiencing these challenges firsthand. What Was Discussed in Washington A major focus of this year’s advocacy effort was support for the proposed “Certified Seasonal Employer” language currently being discussed in federal appropriations negotiations. The Certified Seasonal Employer proposal is designed to reward businesses that have consistently followed the rules and responsibly used the H-2B program over multiple years. Under the proposal, employers that have received H-2B labor certifications for the past five years would be allowed to maintain access to the highest number of seasonal workers they were previously certified for without those workers counting against the annual H-2B cap. One way to think about it is this: businesses that have proven year after year they are compliant, dependable, and operating legally would no longer have to “re-enter the lottery” every season just to maintain the same workforce levels they have historically relied upon. Currently, the H-2B program has an annual visa cap of 66,000 per fiscal year that has not been updated in decades despite major economic growth and increased workforce demand. The proposed language would reward long-time, compliant employers (certified for the last five years) instead of forcing them to compete under the same uncertainty each season. These workers would not be included in the cap. Where the Language StandsThe Certified Seasonal Employer language is currently being discussed as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Appropriations process in Congress. Rather than moving as a standalone immigration bill, the proposal is being pursued through the federal appropriations process because Congress frequently uses annual funding legislation to address operational H-2B issues and cap relief measures. In this case, industry groups are advocating for the language to be included in the baseline DHS Appropriations bill because DHS oversees key parts of the H-2B program, including visa allocation and administration. The proposal has already gained significant attention in Washington. According to industry briefings shared during the fly-in, the White House previously supported inclusion of the Certified Seasonal Employer language during earlier federal funding negotiations, and advocates are continuing to push for its inclusion in the final FY27 DHS funding package. This means the current focus is on educating Congressional offices, appropriations staff, and committee leadership about why workforce certainty is critical for seasonal employers and why long-time, compliant businesses should receive more predictability within the H-2B process. For TNLA members, the issue is not simply about increasing workforce numbers; it is about creating a more stable and predictable system that allows responsible employers to better plan projects, retain year-round employees, and continue supporting Texas’ growing economy. What Success Looks Like For TNLA members, success would mean:
TNLA appreciates the members who traveled to Washington to ensure the voice of Texas’ green industry was represented on Capitol Hill. Contact TNLA’s Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Team Spring in Texas often brings warm temperatures along with frequent rain and storm events, creating highly favorable conditions for increased pest pressure in nurseries, greenhouses, and landscape systems. Elevated humidity and excess moisture significantly enhance pest development, survival, and reproduction, making this season particularly challenging for growers. These environmental conditions not only accelerate pest life cycles but also create ideal microhabitats for hidden and soil-associated pests, increasing the risk of sudden infestations and economic losses. Favorable Conditions for Pest OutbreaksSoft-bodied insects such as aphids, whiteflies, and thrips thrive under warm, humid conditions commonly observed during spring. The flush of new plant growth during this period provides tender, nutrient-rich tissues that are highly attractive for feeding and reproduction. As a result, pest populations can increase rapidly within a short period, often going unnoticed until visible damage appears. Without timely monitoring and intervention, these pests can quickly reach damaging levels and affect plant quality and marketability. Soil and Moisture Associated Pests Prolonged wet conditions create ideal environments for pests such as fungus gnats and shore flies, particularly in greenhouse and nursery production systems. Their larvae develop in moist growing media, feeding on organic matter and plant roots, which can weaken plants and reduce overall vigor. Additionally, pests like the European pepper moth benefit from high moisture conditions, as their larvae remain concealed in the lower canopy or within the growing media. This hidden feeding behavior, combined with favorable environmental conditions, makes early detection difficult and allows populations to build up before noticeable symptoms appear. Pest Spread and Increased Activity Rainfall and storm events can also contribute to the spread of pests within production systems. Splashing water can move infested soil, plant debris, eggs, and larvae between containers or across growing areas, facilitating rapid dispersal. Furthermore, outdoor pests such as caterpillars and beetles often become more active following rainfall, increasing feeding activity and the likelihood of damage. Wind and storm movement can also aid in dispersing adult insects into new areas, compounding pest pressure. Challenges in Pest Control Frequent rainfall presents additional challenges by reducing the effectiveness of insecticide applications. Rain can wash off residues from plant surfaces, shortening the duration of control and requiring more precise timing of applications. High humidity may also affect product performance and pest exposure, making control less consistent during extended wet periods. Take-Home Message Overall, rainy spring weather creates ideal conditions for pest outbreaks by enhancing survival, reproduction, and spread, while simultaneously reducing control effectiveness. Under these conditions, consistent scouting, proper irrigation management, and timely, integrated interventions are essential to minimize pest impact and maintain plant quality and marketability. Rafia Khan, Ph. D. Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center, Overton, TX
How to View This Update:
Click the + button to zoom in. If part of the page is cut off, click on the page and slide it left or right to see more. On a phone or tablet, use two fingers to zoom in and move around the page. Any links you see are clickable. For the best view, click the full screen icon (⛶) in the bottom right. Want a copy? Click the download button to save it. (to the left of the magnifying glass) The Water Conservation Advisory Council (WCAC) is a state advisory body created by the 80th Texas Legislature in 2007 and operates under the Texas Water Development Board. One of their duties is to provide legislative recommendations to the Texas Legislature and state agencies on water conservation strategies and policies. The Council recently met to review and advance draft legislative recommendations focused on water conservation strategies across Texas. These discussions are particularly important during the interim, as WCAC recommendations can inform future legislation, rulemaking, and statewide water policy initiatives. For TNLA members, these priorities signal potential changes to irrigation practices, reporting requirements, and funding opportunities that could directly impact business operations and compliance. Key Legislative Priorities: Landscape & Irrigation Best Practices (Master Valves) A recommendation was approved to require installation of master valves on all new landscape irrigation systems. These devices help prevent water loss from leaks and system failures and are considered a low-cost, high-impact conservation tool when installed upfront. Member impact: Contractors and irrigation professionals may see increased demand for master valve installation and should be aware of evolving expectations. Statewide Evapotranspiration (ET) Network WCAC is recommending that the Legislature provide additional funding to the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to expand and support a statewide evapotranspiration (ET) network within the TexMesonet program. Evapotranspiration (ET) is a measurement of how much water is lost from soil and plants to the atmosphere through evaporation and plant use, and it is a key tool for determining how much and when to irrigate. The recommendation includes increasing appropriations (approximately $1.2 million for the biennium) to support:
This builds on the existing TexMesonet network, which was established to provide statewide weather and water data but currently lacks sufficient resources to fully incorporate ET data. Member impact: Expanded ET data access could support more precise irrigation practices and strengthen the case for smart irrigation technologies. This may create opportunities for members offering advanced irrigation solutions. Irrigation Requirements for Single-Family Rental Properties (Still Under Development) WCAC is examining a proposal to update Public Utility Commission rules to extend existing tenant water-use protections to single-family rental properties. Currently, tenants in apartments, condominiums, and manufactured housing have protections related to water billing and responsibility under submetering rules. However, these protections do not apply to single-family rentals. In some cases, landlords require tenants to irrigate landscapes to maintain the property, even during periods when local water restrictions are in place. This can result in tenants facing fines, penalties, or higher water bills for actions required under their lease. The proposal would align all rental property types by extending these protections to single-family rentals, helping ensure tenants are not penalized for irrigation requirements outside their control. Member impact: Could affect how irrigation services are directed and who is responsible for compliance on rental properties, requiring landscape professionals to follow local water restrictions regardless of lease requirements. Agricultural Water Conservation Funding WCAC is recommending that water conservation projects, such as irrigation efficiency improvements and drought-resilience measures be clearly recognized as eligible for financial assistance through the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA). While TAFA already provides low-interest loans and other financial tools for agricultural production, water conservation is not explicitly identified in statute. WCAC’s recommendation is to highlight and reinforce that these activities qualify under existing authority. This recommendation does not create new funding or prioritize water conservation over other uses but instead increases awareness of existing financing options. Member impact: Increased visibility of funding opportunities could benefit selected growers engaged in water-efficient practices, particularly those eligible for conservation-related financial assistance. Municipal Water Use Transparency WCAC is recommending stronger reporting and visibility of:
The goal is to improve accountability and encourage better performance through clearer, more accessible data. This would include a full-time employee assisting utilities, review submitting data, and posting the conservation/reuse BMP volumes. Their path is for Texas utilities and water planning regions to better understand the progress and effectiveness of implementing water conservation and reuse strategies. Member impact: Increased transparency may lead to heightened scrutiny of outdoor water use and irrigation practices, particularly in municipal or commercial settings. This could influence local regulations, customer expectations, and how water use is tracked and reported. What’s Next WCAC will now move into developing a formal legislative report, including summaries and supporting visuals.
Why It Matters These recommendations signal a continued focus on:
TNLA will continue monitoring as recommendations are finalized and assessing potential impacts on the green industry. Rafia Khan, Ph. D. Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center Overton, TX. Crape myrtle bark scale (CMBS), Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae, has become a persistent and economically important pest of crape myrtle in Texas landscapes and nurseries. Early spring is a critical time to detect and manage this pest before populations build and become more difficult to control. Identification and Early SignsCMBS primarily colonizes trunks, branches, and twigs of crape myrtle. The most recognizable sign is the presence of small, white to gray, felt-like encrustations on the bark. These are the adult females, which produce a waxy covering that protects them from environmental stress and some control measures. One of the earliest and most noticeable symptoms in spring is the development of black sooty mold on the bark and surrounding surfaces. This mold grows on honeydew excreted by the feeding scales and often serves as the first visual cue for infestation. Heavy infestations can lead to reduced plant vigor, poor flowering, and aesthetic decline, key concerns for both growers and landscape managers. During early spring, overwintering populations begin to resume activity. Crawlers (the mobile, immature stage) start emerging as temperatures increase, making this the most vulnerable stage for management interventions. Monitoring StrategiesRegular scouting should begin in early spring (March–April in most parts of Texas). Inspect the bark closely, especially in crevices and around pruning cuts. Look for both the white scale coverings and the associated sooty mold. To detect crawler activity, double-sided tape can be wrapped around infested branches. The presence of tiny pinkish crawlers on the tape indicates active emergence and signals the optimal timing for certain treatments. Management ApproachesAn integrated pest management (IPM) approach is essential for effective CMBS control. Cultural and Mechanical Control: Light infestations can be managed by physically removing scales using a soft brush or by washing the bark with a strong stream of water. Pruning heavily infested branches can also reduce pest pressure, but care should be taken to properly dispose of infested material. Chemical Control: Early-season applications are most effective when targeted at the crawler stage. Contact insecticides (e.g., horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps) can help suppress crawler populations when coverage is thorough. These treatments should be applied when temperatures are moderate to avoid plant injury. Systemic insecticides, such as those containing dinotefuran or imidacloprid, can provide longer-term control. Soil drenches or trunk applications applied in spring, allow the active ingredient to move within the plant and target feeding scales. However, timing is critical; applications should be made early enough to coincide with active feeding. ConclusionEarly detection and timely intervention are key to managing crape myrtle bark scale. By combining careful monitoring with targeted cultural and chemical controls, growers and landscape professionals can minimize damage and maintain the health and aesthetic value of crape myrtle plantings throughout the growing season.
Figure: Crape myrtle bark scales on crape myrtle plants (A), Black sooty mold on the leaf and stems on infested crape myrtle plants (B). Photo credit: Rafia Khan
 TNLA is now accepting applications for 1–2 Student Social Media Ambassadors to help capture the experience at Nursery/Landscape EXPO 2026. What Is EXPO? Nursery/Landscape EXPO is one of the largest events in the country for professionals in landscaping, plant production, garden centers, and outdoor spaces. It brings together businesses from across the industry to connect, learn, and grow. About the Opportunity This role is designed for students who are interested in marketing, communications, or content creation and want real-world experience in a live event setting. Selected students will help capture EXPO in real time through:
Why Apply? This is more than just a volunteer opportunity, it’s a chance to:
Who Should Apply This opportunity is a great fit for students who are:
Event Details📍 San Antonio, Texas 📅 August 11–13, 2026 nurserylandscapeexpo.org How to Apply Applications are now open. 👉 Apply here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=dfuMZY3U6Ei5zBYgTvHoXzQYAbjbsBpCqTURSaWKJoRUM1lOTlVRNzRLVDYxR0ZLV0NRSU9JSlJJNy4u Know Someone Who Would Be a Good Fit? We encourage members, employers, and educators to share this opportunity with students who may be interested. Questions?
A message from Merchant Owl, a TNLA Endorsed Service Provider If your business accepts credit card payments, especially if you work with contractors, municipalities, or other businesses, a recent change from Visa could impact your costs. Effective April 16, 2026, Visa is discontinuing its Level 2 data program. While the name may not sound familiar, this program allowed many B2B businesses to qualify for lower credit card processing rates when certain transaction details were included. With this change, some businesses may see higher processing fees when accepting purchasing cards. There is still an opportunity to reduce costs but it now requires capturing additional information at the time of the transaction and using the right systems to properly process that data. What this means for you:If you’re not set up correctly, you could be paying more than necessary in card fees especially during your busiest season. The good news is that there are ways to minimize the impact. Working with the right payment provider can help ensure your transactions are structured to qualify for the best possible rates. Merchant Owl, a TNLA Endorsed Service Provider, has worked alongside the green industry for over 20 years and helps businesses evaluate their current setup and identify opportunities to reduce costs. TNLA members can receive a free consultation no current relationship required. More information can be obtained by contacting Rich Kling at Merchant Owl. We can help evaluate your current situation and make recommendations as needed to assist you in qualifying your transactions at the best level (cost) possible.  The Texas Excellence in Landscaping (TEIL) Awards are now open. Each year, landscape companies across Texas submit projects that showcase the craftsmanship, creativity, and problem-solving happening across our industry. If your team is working on projects this season, now is the time to start thinking about what you may want to submit. Start with One Simple Step The strongest TEIL entries don’t happen at the end of a project; they’re built along the way. A simple tip from past participants: Assign someone on your team to capture photos throughout the project That typically includes:
Capturing these as you go makes submitting much easier later. What Makes a Strong Entry TEIL submissions don’t have to be complicated. Strong projects usually show:
Many winning entries come from everyday projects completed by teams doing great work for their clients. Start Looking at Your Current Projects Projects happening right now, especially those wrapping up this spring and summer, are often strong candidates for TEIL submissions. If your team is working on something you’re proud of, it’s worth documenting now so you have everything ready when you decide to enter. Recognition TEIL winners are recognized each year at the Lone Star Hort Forum and promoted across TNLA channels providing visibility for your work and your team. Learn More You can review categories, past winners, and submission details here:
👉 https://www.tnlaonline.org/teil.html Submissions will be accepted through October. Texas producers and green industry businesses have access to new funding and financing opportunities that may help support growth, equipment upgrades, and long-term investment. The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), through the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA), is currently offering two programs designed to strengthen agricultural operations and improve access to capital. 1. AgPro Grant Program The Agricultural Production Resource Opportunity (AgPro) Grant Program provides funding to help producers improve, expand, and strengthen their operations. What this can support:
This program is designed for businesses looking to invest in efficiency, innovation, and long-term growth. 2. Agricultural Loan Guarantee (ALG) Program The Texas Agricultural Loan Guarantee (ALG) Program helps increase access to financing by reducing risk for lenders through a state-backed guarantee. What this means for businesses:
Loan guarantees can cover up to 90% of the loan amount, depending on size, helping lenders feel more confident in approving financing. Why This Matters Access to capital continues to be a key challenge for many businesses across the green industry. Programs like these can help:
Strengthen long-term stability Learn More: For full program details and application information: Questions?Casey Corley |
AuthorKim Cabrera, TNLA Marketing Manager Archives
July 2026
|
RSS Feed
