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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 |
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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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Make plans to join us for the TNLA Annual Business Meeting during EXPO! At this important gathering, you’ll:
Can't make it?We'll be LIVE STREAMING the event on our Nursery/Landscape EXPO Facebook page. Make sure you follow us for live updates on the tradeshow floor! Need to register for Expo?For Exhibitor questions, please contact [email protected] or call 512-579-3864. For Registration questions, please call 512-280-5182 ext 3876 or email [email protected].   The Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) is proud to congratulate former TNLA State Board Chair Bobby Eichholz, ASLA, on being elevated to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Council of Fellows as part of the 2026 Class of Fellows.
Election to the ASLA Council of Fellows is among the highest honors bestowed by the organization and recognizes individuals whose careers have made exceptional contributions to the landscape architecture profession and society. Eichholz, principal of Rialto Studio in San Antonio, joins a distinguished group of landscape architects from across North America who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, service, and professional achievement throughout their careers. For many within the Texas green industry, Bobby is known not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his commitment to advancing the profession and supporting the broader horticulture and landscape community. His leadership as a past TNLA State Board Chair helped strengthen connections between landscape architects, landscape professionals, growers, and other green industry stakeholders across Texas. "The 2026 Class of ASLA Fellows represents the very best of our profession, leaders whose work has strengthened communities, advanced environmental stewardship, and expanded what landscape architecture can do for people and places," said ASLA President Brad McCauley, FASLA. ASLA Fellows will be formally elevated during a special investiture ceremony at the 2026 Conference on Landscape Architecture in Los Angeles, California, September 16–18, 2026. On behalf of the TNLA Board of Directors, staff, and members, we extend our congratulations to Bobby on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for his continued contributions to the landscape profession and the Texas green industry. Congratulations, Bobby! The green industry has always been relationship-driven. Even with emails, online ordering, and virtual meetings, there’s still value in shaking someone’s hand, walking the tradeshow floor together, and having conversations face-to-face. That’s one reason EXPO continues to matter year after year. Not just because of products or education, but because it creates space for the kinds of conversations that happen differently in person.  Real Industry PerspectiveMore Than The Tradeshow FloorSome of the most valuable moments at EXPO happen:
That kind of connection still matters. Bottom LineIn a relationship-driven industry, face-to-face interaction still plays an important role. Sometimes one conversation, one introduction, or one shared perspective can stay with you long after EXPO ends. That’s why so many people continue making EXPO part of their year.
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. Built on Convenience, Relationships, and Growth When you walk into Southwest Wholesale Nursery in Dallas, one thing becomes clear right away, this business is built around the customer. Or better yet… the customer never has to “walk in” at all. A Simpler Way to Serve Landscape Professionals At Southwest Wholesale Nursery, landscape contractors pull up, are greeted by name, and get exactly what they need—loaded right into their truck. No lines. No confusion. No wasted time. Owner, Steven Taber TMCNP, explained it best: “You could go to the grocery store and cook… but sometimes you just want the convenience of a restaurant.” That mindset has shaped their entire operation.  🌿 What Makes Southwest Different Southwest Wholesale Nursery has grown into a trusted resource for professionals across Texas by focusing on a few key things: ✔ Variety that contractors need They source plant material from across the country—including Texas, Oklahoma, California, North Carolina, and Oregon—so customers have more options in one place. ✔ Built for real-world workflows Everything is designed around how landscape professionals actually work—fast, efficient, and relationship-driven. ✔ Strong team and culture With around 100 employees, their team builds real relationships with customers. Many regulars even have a “go-to” staff member. 📈 Evolving with the Industry Southwest Wholesale Nursery isn’t just growing plants, they’re improving how they operate. In 2023, they made a simple but powerful shift: ➡️ Moving from paper tracking to a shared digital system employees can access from their phones. This allows their team to quickly see:
🌎 Growing the Next Generation Many new graduates say they want to work for growers but not all growing operations offer broad experience. Southwest Wholesale Nursery stands out because employees get exposure to a wide variety of plant material, helping them build real, practical knowledge. 🚜 Looking Ahead Currently operating on 30 of their 60 acres, Southwest Wholesale Nursery is already thinking about the future. With potential expansion opportunities nearby, they’re planning ahead, not just for growth, but also to address challenges like on-site flooding. 🤝 A True TNLA Partner Southwest Wholesale Nursery isn’t just a member, they’re a Strategic Partner, contributing over $30,000 in 2025 alone to support TNLA programs and events. That investment helps strengthen the entire industry.  💬 Join the Conversation Have you worked with Southwest Wholesale Nursery? 👉 Share your experience in the comments or connect with other professionals inside TNLA Hive.
 After 25 years of service to the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association, Amy Graham, President/CEO, has announced her retirement, effective at the end of November 2026. Amy has served as President for the past 15 years, following 10 years as Vice President, providing steady leadership, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to advancing the green industry in Texas. Her impact on the association and its members will be felt for years to come. The Board of Directors has appointed a member-led Search Committee and will partner with Sterling Martin Associates, based in Washington, DC, to conduct a national search for TNLA’s next President/CEO. We thank Amy for her service and wish her all the best in her well-earned retirement. Sterling MartinTNLA has retained Sterling Martin in our search for the next President & CEO. Learn more about this wonderful opportunity here: https://lnkd.in/eqNymdFv
Sterling Martin is committed to providing equal opportunity for employees and applicants in all aspects of the employment relationship, without regard to race, religion, color, age, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, political affiliation, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. Spring is one of the busiest seasons for the green industry. As work ramps up across Texas nurseries, landscape companies, and garden centers, it’s also a good time to take a fresh look at the resources available through your TNLA membership. Many members know TNLA for its events, advocacy, and education—but another important benefit is access to exclusive savings and vetted service providers designed to help your business operate more efficiently. Over the years, TNLA has partnered with companies that provide services our members rely on every day. These Member-Endorsed Service Providers and Benefit Partners offer tools, discounts, and services that support your business operations while helping reduce costs. Thanks to the collective buying power of TNLA members, we’re able to negotiate competitive pricing and programs on your behalf. So this spring, here’s a quick refresher on what’s blooming in TNLA member benefits. TNLA Endorsed Service Providers |
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 | Texas Green Industry (TGI) Safety Group Workers compensation insurance designed specifically for the Texas green industry. |
  | Merchant Owl Special member discounts on credit card processing services. Rich Kling, 407-883-2246 | [email protected]. Spectrum VoIP Cloud-based VoIP phone systems designed to support growing businesses. Contact Justice Hill 469-384-2402 |
These providers help TNLA members access reliable services while potentially lowering operational costs.
TNLA Member Benefit Partners
In addition to endorsed providers, TNLA also partners with organizations offering discounts and programs that support your team and your business.
These partnerships include savings on everything from fuel to office supplies and employee benefits.
Examples include:
SiteOne Landscape Supply
New 2026 TNLA members qualify to receive a FREE Pro-Trade long-handle shovel at participating branches.
View printable flyer HERE or visit their website for a general overview HERE
Coast Pay Fuel Card
Earn up to a $2,000 sign-up bonus, with many businesses reducing fleet fuel costs. Learn more: https://coastpay.com/lp/tnla-member-offer/
Office Depot / OfficeMax
Members can receive up to 75% off thousands of office supply products. For in store purchases use Account #80124841998 - For online purchases go to tnla.savingcenter.net
Avis & Enterprise
Discounted rental car rates for business travel. Use the AWD code U059686 for up to a 25% discount. Enterprise-Use code 65A1840 and Company name (TEX) for a 10%discount on the lowest internet rate. Fleet services include discount on fuel and new vehicle purchases.
Group Management Services (PEO)
Access competitive HR, payroll, and employee benefits solutions. Learn more at group-mgmt.com or call Jared Kosser-Smith at 737-999-1604.
Irrigation Association
TNLA members receive $100 off contractor membership dues.
Texas RX Prescription Savings Card
Up to 75% savings on prescriptions for members and their families. For questions, contact Debra Adler [email protected] or call 770-313-7261
LegalShield
Business legal solutions with waived initiation fees for TNLA members. Call George Ellison at 512.791.8791
AAA Membership
TNLA members receive $30 off AAA membership. Contact Todd Alexander at [email protected] or call 832-339-3605.
These programs are designed to deliver real value for members and their employees.
These partnerships include savings on everything from fuel to office supplies and employee benefits.
Examples include:
SiteOne Landscape Supply
New 2026 TNLA members qualify to receive a FREE Pro-Trade long-handle shovel at participating branches.
View printable flyer HERE or visit their website for a general overview HERE
Coast Pay Fuel Card
Earn up to a $2,000 sign-up bonus, with many businesses reducing fleet fuel costs. Learn more: https://coastpay.com/lp/tnla-member-offer/
Office Depot / OfficeMax
Members can receive up to 75% off thousands of office supply products. For in store purchases use Account #80124841998 - For online purchases go to tnla.savingcenter.net
Avis & Enterprise
Discounted rental car rates for business travel. Use the AWD code U059686 for up to a 25% discount. Enterprise-Use code 65A1840 and Company name (TEX) for a 10%discount on the lowest internet rate. Fleet services include discount on fuel and new vehicle purchases.
Group Management Services (PEO)
Access competitive HR, payroll, and employee benefits solutions. Learn more at group-mgmt.com or call Jared Kosser-Smith at 737-999-1604.
Irrigation Association
TNLA members receive $100 off contractor membership dues.
Texas RX Prescription Savings Card
Up to 75% savings on prescriptions for members and their families. For questions, contact Debra Adler [email protected] or call 770-313-7261
LegalShield
Business legal solutions with waived initiation fees for TNLA members. Call George Ellison at 512.791.8791
AAA Membership
TNLA members receive $30 off AAA membership. Contact Todd Alexander at [email protected] or call 832-339-3605.
These programs are designed to deliver real value for members and their employees.
Why TNLA Vetting Matters
Every endorsed provider and benefit partner is reviewed to ensure they offer high-quality services, strong value, and reliability for our members.
This means you don’t have to spend time researching vendors or negotiating rates on your own—TNLA has already done the work to identify trusted partners.
The goal is simple:
✔ Help members save money
✔ Provide reliable business solutions
✔ Support the success of Texas green industry companies
This means you don’t have to spend time researching vendors or negotiating rates on your own—TNLA has already done the work to identify trusted partners.
The goal is simple:
✔ Help members save money
✔ Provide reliable business solutions
✔ Support the success of Texas green industry companies
Take a Fresh Look This Spring
As the busy season gets underway, it’s worth taking a few minutes to explore the programs available through your TNLA membership. You may discover a benefit that helps streamline operations or reduce expenses for your business.
👉 Explore all TNLA Endorsed Service Providers and Benefit Partners here:
https://www.tnlaonline.org/endorsed-services--discounts.htm
👉 Explore all TNLA Endorsed Service Providers and Benefit Partners here:
https://www.tnlaonline.org/endorsed-services--discounts.htm
| endorsed_services_-_member_benefit_partner_flier_3-3-2026.pdf |
Because when members grow stronger, the entire industry grows stronger too.
TNLA… Helping you do business better
TNLA… Helping you do business better
My journey into the green industry and TNLA was shaped less by a master plan than by people, opportunity, and timing. Like many in this profession, I started by focusing on the work in front of me: learning the craft, showing up consistently, and doing my best to build something meaningful. Over time, that work evolved into a deeper sense of purpose not just building landscapes, but helping build an industry rooted in respect, relationships, and long‑term stewardship
I became involved with TNLA because I saw the value of connection. This industry is built on experience passed from one person to another, and I quickly learned that being part of a professional community matters. TNLA offered a place to learn from others, to contribute ideas, and to grow alongside people who care deeply about raising the standard of our work. It wasn’t just about resources it was about belonging to something bigger than myself.
Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to learn from mentors, colleagues, and peers who took the time to invest in me. Some offered guidance during pivotal moments, others led simply by example. Their influence reminded me that leadership is not about having all the answers—it’s about being willing to listen, learn, and step forward when needed. Those lessons continue to shape how I approach leadership today.
For me, leadership is rooted in service. It’s about showing up with integrity, being accountable to others, and making space for different perspectives. Belonging means knowing that your presence matters and that your voice has value. As we recognize Black History Month, I’m especially mindful of that truth. Being the first African American Chair of TNLA is an honor I carry with humility and gratitude. It represents progress, but it also reflects the many individuals—past and present—whose perseverance, contributions, and leadership helped make that moment possible.
Black history is not separate from our industry’s story; it is part of it. It reminds us of the importance of access, opportunity, and representation, and of the responsibility we have to ensure that leadership reflects the diversity of talent within our profession. I hope my role encourages others to see themselves as leaders and contributors, regardless of background or starting point.
TNLA has played an important role in my professional growth, and membership has been key to that experience. The relationships formed through this organization have strengthened my perspective and reinforced the value of collaboration. When we invest in one another—through mentorship, education, and shared accountability—we strengthen the future of the industry as a whole.
TNLA has played an important role in my professional growth, and membership has been key to that experience. The relationships formed through this organization have strengthened my perspective and reinforced the value of collaboration. When we invest in one another—through mentorship, education, and shared accountability—we strengthen the future of the industry as a whole.
Looking ahead, I believe our greatest strength lies in our people. By honoring the foundation that built this industry while welcoming new voices and ideas, we create space for innovation and continuity. My goal as Chair is to help foster an environment where professionalism, respect, and belonging are not just ideals, but everyday practice.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve TNLA, thankful for those who came before me, and hopeful for what we can continue to build together—grounded in history, strengthened by community, and focused on a future that includes us all.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve TNLA, thankful for those who came before me, and hopeful for what we can continue to build together—grounded in history, strengthened by community, and focused on a future that includes us all.
Devin D. Guinn
Chairman
Texas Nursery Landscape & Association
Chairman
Texas Nursery Landscape & Association
TNLA recently facilitated a tour at Native Texas Nursery in Austin alongside Katie Marschner of Congressman Greg Casar’s (D-Austin) office. The visit gave a firsthand look at a leading wholesale nursery operation and created an opportunity to highlight how people, plants, and policy intersect to support a strong and resilient green industry in Texas.
A Texas Original
Founded in 1987 on just three acres in South Austin by Bill Carson, Native Texas Nursery began with a straightforward mission: providing high-quality native plants to area garden centers. Demand grew steadily, and by 2000 the nursery had expanded to seven acres, ultimately relocating to its current 40-acre site on Milo Road in East Austin to accommodate its growing operation. Today, it serves retail nurseries, landscape professionals, architects, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations across the state, a testament to its enduring relevance in Texas markets.
Leadership and Legacy
We were warmly welcomed by Emily Brown (Owner/CEO), whose leadership has guided Native through decades of market shifts. Emily spoke passionately about the integral role of her H-2A workforce, highlighting how long-tenured employees bring deep expertise and reliability to the nursery.
This success underscores how critical a stable, experienced workforce is to the green industry. Long-tenured H-2A employees bring institutional knowledge that cannot be quickly replaced, from plant care and seasonal timing to mentoring newer staff. This continuity strengthens operations, improves efficiency, and ultimately benefits customers across Texas. It also highlights why reliable and predictable federal guest-worker programs are essential for nurseries and landscape businesses that depend on skilled seasonal labor to meet market demand.
This success underscores how critical a stable, experienced workforce is to the green industry. Long-tenured H-2A employees bring institutional knowledge that cannot be quickly replaced, from plant care and seasonal timing to mentoring newer staff. This continuity strengthens operations, improves efficiency, and ultimately benefits customers across Texas. It also highlights why reliable and predictable federal guest-worker programs are essential for nurseries and landscape businesses that depend on skilled seasonal labor to meet market demand.
Leading much of the tour was James Plyler, Sales Manager, who has been with Native for over a decade. James’s familiarity with the nursery’s operations and his capacity to explain complex production and landscape supply concepts made him an ideal guide, and his involvement on the TNLA Education Committee underscores his dedication to industry education. James offered a beautiful insight into Native’s culture: “At this nursery, we don’t just grow plants…” — a reflection on how the company fosters growth in both plants and people alike.
Also on hand was Mario Gonzalez who wore many hats in the operation. His quick wit and willingness to share stories made it clear he’s a vital part of the team the sort of person who quietly keeps things running and brings lightness to hard work.
The depth of experience among Native’s staff highlights how much the industry depends on knowledge passed from one generation of workers to the next. Employees who have spent years mastering their craft contribute not only through their labor, but by teaching others and strengthening the overall operation. This kind of skill transfer reinforces the need for workforce policies that recognize horticulture as a profession built on expertise, training, and experience.
Also on hand was Mario Gonzalez who wore many hats in the operation. His quick wit and willingness to share stories made it clear he’s a vital part of the team the sort of person who quietly keeps things running and brings lightness to hard work.
The depth of experience among Native’s staff highlights how much the industry depends on knowledge passed from one generation of workers to the next. Employees who have spent years mastering their craft contribute not only through their labor, but by teaching others and strengthening the overall operation. This kind of skill transfer reinforces the need for workforce policies that recognize horticulture as a profession built on expertise, training, and experience.
Preparation
As the nursery prepared for a potential winter storm expected over the weekend, we saw firsthand how they ready their stock and staff for challenging weather. Trees were thoughtfully laid down and shielded in groups, revealing the nursery’s diligent planning.
The nursery’s preparations reminded us of how closely the green industry is tied to Texas’s increasingly unpredictable weather. Thoughtful planning, protective measures, and lessons learned from past events like Winter Storm Uri demonstrate how nurseries adapt to safeguard both plants and people. As communities look for ways to strengthen resilience against extreme weather, the role of nurseries in recovery, replanting, and long-term landscape stability becomes even more important.
The nursery’s preparations reminded us of how closely the green industry is tied to Texas’s increasingly unpredictable weather. Thoughtful planning, protective measures, and lessons learned from past events like Winter Storm Uri demonstrate how nurseries adapt to safeguard both plants and people. As communities look for ways to strengthen resilience against extreme weather, the role of nurseries in recovery, replanting, and long-term landscape stability becomes even more important.
Advocacy and Appreciation
Congressman Casar’s district staffer, Katie, was especially impressed by how Native Texas Nursery treats and retains its workforce, and by the pride and expertise employees bring to their roles. She shared that learning directly from businesses like this is critical. Understanding how the industry operates helps ensure our voices are better informed and more effectively heard.
Hosting policymakers and their staff at member businesses like Native Texas Nursery helps bridge the gap between policy discussions and real-world operations. Seeing a nursery in action provides context that cannot be captured in briefing papers alone, from workforce dynamics to seasonal pressures and environmental challenges. These first-hand experiences help ensure that future policy decisions are better informed and more responsive to the realities of our industry.
Hosting policymakers and their staff at member businesses like Native Texas Nursery helps bridge the gap between policy discussions and real-world operations. Seeing a nursery in action provides context that cannot be captured in briefing papers alone, from workforce dynamics to seasonal pressures and environmental challenges. These first-hand experiences help ensure that future policy decisions are better informed and more responsive to the realities of our industry.
What This Means for Texas Landscapes
Native Texas Nursery stands as a vibrant example of how a business can grow with, and for, the market. Its presence since 1987 shows a continuous commitment to quality, innovation, and people. Whether preparing for weather extremes, supporting skilled workers, or supplying diverse plant material that enhances urban and rural landscapes alike, Native’s model reflects what the nursery and landscape industry aspires to be.
Author
Kim Cabrera, TNLA Marketing Manager
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