On June 11, TNLA’s Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, Curtis Smith, joined a coalition of chambers of commerce, trade associations, and directly impacted individuals in Austin for a roundtable hosted by FWD.us and the Texas Association of Business, marking the 13th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy.

Moderated by Glenn Hamer, President & CEO of the Texas Association of Business, the event brought together Texas business leaders to underscore a shared message: DACA recipients are vital to our workforce—and our future.

“I have seen firsthand how DACA recipients strengthen our workforce every day,” said Curtis Smith. “They are critical to keeping our industries competitive, and we need policies that reflect their value to our state and our economy.”

📉 The Threat of Losing DACA Protections Is Real—and Costly
Participants heard testimony from Edilsa Lopez, an Austin-based DACA recipient and accountant, as well as updates from FWD.us policy staff on the current legal and political landscape surrounding DACA. The event highlighted the widespread economic risk posed by ending the program.

Key data shared at the roundtable included:

• 70,000 DACA recipients in Texas could be forced out of the workforce
• 34,000 additional jobs would disappear if DACA-owned businesses closed
• $37 billion in projected economic losses to Texas
• $782 million in annual lost revenue for state and local governments
• $227 million in annual business income losses

🧾 Additional Background: The DACA Policy Legal Landscape
The legal future of DACA remains uncertain—especially for Texas.
As of now, the Texas v. United States DACA case is returning to Judge Hanen, following no petitions being filed to escalate the case to the U.S. Supreme Court by the May 19 deadline. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals instructed Judge Hanen to revise his prior ruling.

Here's what that means:

• DACA work authorization is considered unlawful in Texas only.
• Texas DACA recipients retain deportation protection but could lose their right to work.
• In the other 49 states, full DACA benefits remain intact, including the ability to work.
• DACA renewals are still permitted in all 50 states, but initial applications remain frozen nationwide.
• Judge Hanen must now determine how Texas transitions from full to partial DACA benefits.

For now, the status quo remains—but changes could be imminent, especially for the Texas-based workforce.

🌱 Why This Matters to the Green Industry
The Texas nursery and landscape industry already faces a growing labor shortage. DACA recipients have become essential contributors—whether on farms, in nurseries, or running their own businesses.

At TNLA, we continue to push for practical, bipartisan workforce policies that reflect the current needs of our members and the economic realities of doing business in Texas.
​
Have questions about DACA, TNLA’s workforce advocacy, or how this could impact your business?
📩 Reach out to Curtis Smith at [email protected]

Spring is in full swing, and we know it’s one of your busiest times of year. Whether you’re in the greenhouse, out on job sites, or managing a team—you’ve got a lot going on. That’s why we’ve pulled together everything TNLA has going on this month, all in one place, so you don’t miss a beat.

Regional Meetings: Connect with Your Local Green Industry Community

Region I Meeting – Support the Future of Horticulture
Join us for an evening at Palo Alto Community College as we spotlight the Horticulture Program and kick off the student competition season.
April 8, 2025
Tour at 5:00 PM | Meeting 6:00–8:00 PM
Palo Alto Community College – Art Room 101
Free to attend + Free parking | Dinner provided
RSVP by April 7 to: [email protected]


Region III Spring Meeting – Tour & Annual Business Meeting
Tour the beautiful Purtis Creek Farm and enjoy great conversation and dinner with fellow members.
 May 15, 2025
 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM
 Purtis Creek Farm – Eustace, TX
 Free to attend + Free parking | Dinner provided
 RSVP by May 9 to: [email protected]
 Speaker: TBD

 TNLA Green Report Podcast: Industry Voices You Need to Hear
 Just Released:
Season 4, Episode 4: “Cultivating the Future” with Dr. Andrew King
Go behind the scenes of the Texas Superstar® Trials and hear what makes a plant a true standout in Texas landscapes.
Posted March 31
Listen now: Episode 4 on Podbean
Coming April 9:
Season 4, Episode 5: “Rooted in Quality” with Savanna Taylor Thornton
Get an insider’s look at the 2025 season from Lone Star Trees, plus industry insights on tariffs, labor, and advocacy.
Listen here: greenreport.podbean.com

Free Webinar: Reaching Families & Educators Through Nature

Unlocking New Customer Opportunities Through Early Childhood Connections
Presented by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s Dr. Jodi Nerren and Anna Raumaker.
Thursday, April 24, 2025
1:30 PM
Zoom
Register: Click here to register
Learn how to connect with families and educators by highlighting the benefits of nature in child development—and turn them into loyal green industry customers.


Nursery/Landscape Expo 2025 Registration is LIVE!
Get ready for Nursery/Landscape Expo 2025, happening August 5–7. Register early and lock in discounted rates by July 18! Booths selling fast!! Mobile App launching soon, be on the look out for updates.

 Here's a few sneak peek session titles:

• Texas Natives: Key Plants and Key Pests
• Controlling Borers and Scale Pests
• Proven Secrets to a More Profitable Irrigation Business
• Tree Risk Assessment & Structural Pruning
• Climate Resilient Trees for a 21st Century
• Next-Gen Irrigation: 4-Hour Live Demo
  … and more!

Register now at 👉 nurserylandscapeexpo.org


Coming end of April: Spring Issue of TNLA Working for You Magazine
Our Spring 2025 issue of TNLA Working For You goes live in late April, and you won’t want to miss it! This issue celebrates our award winners honored at the Lone Star Hort Forum, digs into real-time compliance guidance on immigration, features exclusive stories from WTAMU, and offers practical insights into landscape marketing, pest management, and more.

Whether you're looking to be inspired, stay compliant, or gain an edge in today’s competitive landscape, this issue has something for everyone in the green industry.

Keep an eye on your inbox—we’ll let you know as soon as it’s live.

Coming in May: “Embrace Your Space” Campaign Launch!
We’re excited to launch our "Embrace Your Space" campaign this May—a free marketing toolkit to help your business promote spring planting and boost customer engagement. Get ready for downloadable social graphics, fliers, and easy-to-use content you can put to work right away.


We know this season can be intense—but we’re here to make it easier. From advocacy to events to marketing tools, TNLA has your back. Here’s to a strong spring season!

On April 2, 2025, new U.S. trade measures were announced that represent a major shift in federal tariff policy—with broad implications for the horticulture and landscape industries.

Before diving into the specifics, here’s a quick refresher:

What Is a Tariff?
A tariff is a tax placed on goods imported into a country. It’s designed to make foreign products more expensive, either to encourage consumers to buy domestically or to apply pressure in trade negotiations.

Example:
If your business imports $100,000 worth of garden tools from Italy and a 10% tariff applies, you would owe $10,000 in duties—bringing the total cost to $110,000.

Who Pays for Tariffs?While tariffs are technically paid by importers at the border, the costs often get passed down the supply chain:

• Importers may raise prices to offset the cost
• Distributors and retailers may adjust pricing
• Ultimately, consumers and other businesses feel the impact

Key Changes TNLA Members Should Know

🔹 10% Blanket Tariff on All Imports
Effective April 5, 2025, a 10% tariff will apply to all goods entering the U.S., regardless of country of origin. This is one of the most sweeping tariff measures in recent history.

🔹 Reciprocal Tariffs Begin April 9A second round of tariffs will target goods from countries that impose barriers on U.S. exports. These “reciprocal” tariffs will vary by country and industry.

Exemptions include:

• Items under national emergency provisions (50 U.S.C. 1702(b))
• Steel, aluminum, and autos already under Section 232
• Copper, lumber, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals
• Energy and critical minerals not produced in the U.S.
• Bullion (precious metals)

These tariffs will remain until the administration determines that U.S. trade imbalances and unfair practices have been addressed.

🔹 Canada & Mexico
Impacts are limited for now under active IEEPA orders related to migration and fentanyl:

• USMCA-compliant goods: 0% tariff
• Non-USMCA-compliant goods: 25% tariff
• Non-USMCA energy and potash: 10% tariff

If these orders are lifted in the future, non-USMCA goods will be subject to a 12% reciprocal tariff.

🔹 End of Duty-Free Imports from China & Hong Kong
The de minimis rule currently allows duty-free shipments under $800. That exemption ends soon:

• May 2, 2025: $25 or 30% per item (whichever is higher)
• June 1, 2025: $50 per item

This change will significantly impact small package imports and e-commerce.

🔹 Auto & Auto Parts Tariffs
A 25% tariff on imported cars takes effect April 3, 2025.

​A separate tariff on imported auto parts will follow no later than May 3, 2025.

Parts that meet USMCA requirements are initially excluded. However, the Commerce Department will soon introduce a system to assess which components count as “non-U.S.” for tariff purposes.

What TNLA Members Should Do Now
If your business relies on imported goods—such as pots, fertilizer, hand tools, or machinery—it’s important to take proactive steps:

• Review your supply chains
• Talk with vendors about possible alternatives
• Evaluate potential cost increases
• Watch for evolving updates

While some of these tariffs may be temporary, the financial impact could be long-lasting.

Why Labor Access Matters More Than Ever
These new tariffs will likely increase your cost of doing business. That’s why labor policy must be part of the conversation. A reliable, legal workforce—especially through programs like H-2A and H-2B—is critical to absorbing financial pressure and staying competitive.

Tariffs and workforce access go hand in hand.
In a more expensive global marketplace, stability and productivity at home are non-negotiable.

TNLA will continue to monitor these changes and advocate for solutions that protect and support your business.
​
Stay tuned for updates.

As the legislative session moves forward, several bills have been introduced that could have a direct impact on the nursery and landscape industry in Texas. From tax exemptions on agricultural inputs to water conservation policies and HOA regulations, these proposals could shape the way our industry operates for years to come.
​
Below is a list of key bills that TNLA is monitoring—if any of these affect your business, please reach out with your thoughts, concerns, or insights. Your feedback is invaluable as we work to advocate for policies that support the Texas Green Industry.
​
Tax Relief for Agricultural Inputs
HB 255 / HJR 31 by Rep. Guillen

• This bill would exempt agricultural inputs from the inventory tax, including seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other resources essential for plant production.
• A major win for growers and producers, helping lower costs and support agricultural businesses.

Right to Farm Protections
HB 1964 by Spiller & SB 1035 by Sparks

• Provides attorney fee provisions under the Right to Farm statute, ensuring that farmers and ranchers can recover legal costs when forced to challenge city regulations that threaten their livelihood.
• Strengthens legal protections for agricultural producers facing unnecessary regulatory burdens.

Landscaping & Water Conservation
HB 1424 by Rep. Goodwin

• Allows municipal water utilities to implement tiered pricing structures to encourage conservation, with excessive users paying higher rates.
• This could impact large-scale landscaping and irrigation costs.

HB 1245 by Rep. Goodwin

• Would require utilities to prohibit irrigation of commercial nonfunctional turf during drought conditions and enforce penalties for violations.
• Introduces new definitions for “functional” and “nonfunctional turf,” which could have broad implications for commercial and residential landscapes.

HB 2269 by Rep. Isaac

• Prohibits homeowners’ associations (HOAs) from requiring homeowners to install or maintain grass or turf landscaping.

SB 542 by Sen. Schwertner (Companion Bills: Rep. Harris-Davilla & Rep. Goodwin)

• Prohibits HOAs from fining homeowners if their lawns become brown or discolored due to local utility restrictions.
• Protects homeowners from unfair penalties while supporting water conservation efforts.

E-Verify Mandates for Government Contracts
HB 323 (Spiller), HB 1019 (Shaheen), HB 1308 (Tepper), HB 1488 (Louderback), HB 2744 (Vasut), SB 324 (Kolkhorst)

• Multiple bills have been filed requiring all governmental entities in Texas to use E-Verify for their employees and those they contract with.

Compost Use in TxDOT Projects
SB 736 by Sen. Menéndez

• Requires TxDOT to use at least 25% compost in its projects, standardizing a practice that some districts already follow.
• This could increase demand for compost production and recycling within the industry.

Environmental Regulations
HB 1637 by Rep. Hull

• Prohibits the use of herbicides containing glyphosate on the grounds of public or private schools, with an exception for crops grown as part of a curriculum.
• Could impact how landscapers and groundskeepers manage vegetation on school properties.

HB 3054 by Rep. Briscoe Cain

• Prohibits governmental entities, including state agencies, counties, and cities and more, from planting trees that are not native to any part of Texas.
• Texas A&M AgriLife would be responsible for creating a list of trees considered native to the state.
• This could significantly impact municipal landscaping projects and tree selection in public spaces.

Additional Bills to Watch
HJR 97 & HB 1370 (Rep. Raymond) – Proposes a constitutional amendment for property tax exemptions on xeriscaped land to promote water conservation.
HB 1592 (Rep. Plesa) – A refiled TNLA-supported bill that would require AgriLife to establish a statewide alert system for dangerous plants, pests, and diseases.

Get Involved – Your Voice Matters!
As these bills progress, TNLA needs to hear from you! If any of these proposals impact your business, please share your questions, concerns, or insights with us. Member input helps shape our advocacy efforts and ensures we are fighting for policies that support the industry.

Reach out to me at [email protected] to discuss how these legislative efforts might affect your business.
Let’s work together to protect and strengthen the Texas Green Industry!

The green industry is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead of key challenges is essential for success. TNLA is offering a series of expert-led webinars covering critical topics—from federal crop insurance to AI-driven hiring and immigration compliance. These free webinars provide actionable insights to help you navigate industry changes and protect your business in 2025.

February 27, 2025 | 12:00 PM
🎤 Speaker: Jeffrey VanLandingham, Tarpon Blue Insurance Advisors
🔗 Click here to join
A new federal crop insurance program is expanding coverage options for nursery growers. This session will provide clarity on eligibility, benefits, and how to leverage federal resources.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Expanded coverage options & higher-value protection for nursery growers
✔ How an FSA relationship can qualify growers for federal program dollars
✔ The difference between standard nursery plant insurance and federally subsidized crop insurance

leader​March 6, 2025 | 12:30 PM
🎤 Speaker: Jack Jostes, Ramblin Jackson
🔗 Register Here
Finding & keeping quality employees is one of the biggest hiring challenges in the green industry. Learn how AI-driven strategies can help streamline hiring, improve job descriptions, and attract the right talent.
What You’ll Learn:
✔ How AI can write job descriptions that attract top candidates
✔ AI tools to pre-screen applicants and improve hiring efficiency
✔ Strategies to boost employee retention & engagement
✔ Step-by-step ways to integrate AI into your recruiting process

March 26, 2025 | 12:00 PM
🎤 Speaker: Jacob Monty, Monty & Ramirez, LLP Attorneys at Law
🔗 Register Here
With immigration enforcement policies rapidly evolving, Texas businesses—especially those in landscaping & agriculture—are facing new compliance challenges. Learn how to protect your business and avoid costly legal missteps.

Discussion Points:
✔ Understanding ICE Enforcement Actions – The difference between I-9 audits, targeted arrests, and worksite enforcement
✔ Preparing for ICE Audits – Steps to ensure your business is compliant before an inspection
✔ Conducting Internal I-9 Audits – How to identify and correct compliance issues before ICE does
✔ Addressing Employee Concerns – Best practices for clear communication & managing misinformation


Don’t Miss Out – Secure Your Spot Today!These FREE webinars are designed to help TNLA members, and space is limited. Reserve your seat now and gain insights that will help your business thrive in 2025
Questions? Contact Sarah Riggins at [email protected] 

On September 24th, TNLA hosted a full-day Water Summit in Pflugerville, Texas, addressing the state's pressing water challenges. The event brought together a diverse group of TNLA members, including growers, garden centers, landscapers, irrigators, and academics, all united to tackle Texas' water crisis.

The summit started with presentations from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and community garden experts. They shared insights on cutting-edge irrigation technologies, best management practices, soil health innovations, turfgrass management, and sustainable landscaping using water-efficient plants.

​At lunch, Texas Senator Charles Perry (R-Lubbock), Chair of the Senate Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Committee, spoke about his upcoming state water plan for the 89th Legislative Session. His proposal includes using $5 billion from the Economic Stabilization Fund to develop new water sources, plus an additional $1 billion annually for future water projects. Potential solutions include brackish and ocean desalination and possibly purchasing water from other states. These measures are critical as Texas faces a projected 73% population growth by 2070, alongside an 18% decline in current water supplies.

​In the afternoon, attendees broke into small groups to discuss state water restrictions and water-saving strategies. The TNLA board will review the ideas generated for future initiatives.

​We sincerely thank all participants for their contributions to this vital conversation. Their engagement was crucial in shaping the summit’s discussions, and TNLA remains dedicated to finding innovative solutions to safeguard Texas' water resources.

Get ready for an incredible learning experience at the West Texas Workshop, taking place October 2-3, 2024, in Lubbock, TX. Hosted at Texas Tech University, this workshop is an excellent opportunity to tour the Horticulture Gardens and Greenhouse Complex and explore the latest Texas Superstar Plant Trial Research.

What to Expect:
​During the workshop, attendees will gain valuable insights from horticulture experts and participate in over 4 hours of Water Wise Education, earning TNLA CEUs. The event also offers numerous networking opportunities, with social gatherings and receptions designed to foster idea exchange among industry professionals.

Special Highlights:
On October 2nd, join us for a welcome reception to kickstart the event. On October 3rd, delve into water-wise education and enjoy an exclusive tour of Texas Tech University’s gardens. A special guest speaker, Texas State Senator Charles Perry, Chair of the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs, will also be presenting.
Registration Details:
Register now for just $175 for members and $200 for non-members. This fee includes access to all educational sessions, the welcome reception, and a complimentary lunch. Need accommodations? Stay at the DoubleTree for $129 per night. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your knowledge and connect with industry leaders in West Texas!

​Register by visiting: https://www.tnlaonline.org/westtxworkshop.html and click HERE for hotel accommodations 

This is your chance to take time with your crew to head out to West Texas to explore cutting-edge advancements in water-saving technology and landscapes featuring drought-resistant plants. 

​For additional information, contact Tricia Smith at [email protected] or call 512-579-3853.
Sponsorships Available
Sponsorships are available. For Questions Contact Allison Berry at [email protected]
 
 Thank you to this Years Sponsors:Southwest Wholesale Nursery
Wolfe Nursery Direct
Texas Tech University
Environmental Landscape Solutions
Back To Nature
Amarillo Land Services
SiteOne Landscape Supply

The TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum (LSHF) is back, and it's bigger and better than ever! Taking place from January 6-8, 2025, this event is the perfect opportunity for horticulture professionals to learn, network, and grow. Hosted in beautiful Grapevine, Texas, the Lone Star Hort Forum brings together experts, innovators, and enthusiasts from across the state to explore the latest trends, research, and technology in the industry.
At LSHF, you can attend various educational sessions covering business development, sustainability, and the newest plant innovations. These sessions are designed to provide actionable insights and strategies that you can apply directly to your business. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, there's something for everyone.

In addition to the educational opportunities, the Lone Star Hort Forum is a fantastic place to network. Meet fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and build relationships that can help you grow your business. The connections you make here could be the key to your next big opportunity.
We also offer immersive tours that you can partake in! What to expect:

• Connect With TNLA Member Companies. Network with fellow TNLA professionals and engage in on-board discussions.
• Immersive Exploration. Experience firsthand what sets these companies apart as you tour each location. Gain inspiration and insights to transform your own business.
• Convenient Experience. Our meticulously planned tour allows you to return to your hotel in time to enjoy a relaxing dinner or the vibrant nightlife in Grapevine. 

Celebrate the best of the Texas Green Industry at our Awards Festival! Applications to be recognized as the top Garden Retailer or Landscaping Company are now open! Please click HERE for the Texas Excellence in Landscaping Awards & HERE for Texas Garden Retailer Awards

Don't miss out on this incredible event! Register now to secure your spot at the TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, make valuable connections, or just be inspired by the beauty and innovation of Texas horticulture, this event is for you. We can't wait to see you there!
Register today to be part of an experience that celebrates the best of Texas horticulture and empowers you to take your business to the next level.
Click here to register, to view the schedule of events and for more information visit -> https://www.tnlaonline.org/tnla-lone-star-hort-forum.html 

Recently, the TNLA Foundation Chair, Bill Carson with Native Texas Nursery, had the opportunity to sit down with Amy Graham, President and CEO of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA), to discuss the incredible work of the TNLA Foundation. Their conversation sheds light on the Foundation’s mission, its impact on the industry, and how you can get involved in shaping the future of horticulture.

Our friend, Paul Winski M.S., a Program Specialist - Commercial Horticulture/Green Industry at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, recently contacted us to help spread the word on a multi-year initiative to promote new Earth-Kind® Roses across the state. Here is what he had to say to the Industry:
The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is excited to announce a multi-year initiative to promote new Earth-Kind® Roses across the state. These roses were rigorously tested for performance in challenging Texas conditions and require minimal care while offering stunning beauty.
Key Points

• Campaigns will run over three successive years, featuring newly designated Earth-Kind® Roses.
• 15 rose cultivars have been selected based on rigorous multi-year research studies conducted in northwest Dallas.
• Earth-Kind® Roses are beautiful, low-maintenance, and environmentally-friendly, requiring no fertilizers, pesticides, or excessive irrigation after establishment.
• Roses must be grown on their own roots and designated by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to be considered Earth-Kind®.

Campaign Details

• Launches on the first weekend of April each year (adjustable for different climate zones).
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension will generate media coverage to support the campaigns.
• Includes point-of-purchase materials to boost retail sales (Orora Visual Horticulture).
• Features the most available cultivars in the first year, progressing to less available ones in subsequent years.

Highly Available Roses Featured First
The campaign will strategically feature rose varieties based on current availability:

• Year 1: Most available cultivars
• Year 2: Next most available cultivars
• Year 3: Least available cultivars

New Opportunities for Texas Growers

• Increased demand expected for featured cultivars
• New market potential for 'Lena' and 'Ole' cultivars (contact Paul Winski for cutting sources)

 Trial Plantings Recommended for Other Texas Regions
While highly recommended for north-central and central Texas, trial plantings are suggested for other regions to ensure suitability.
Rose Rosette Disease Information Available
Consumers are advised to contact their County Extension Agent or a Texas Master Certified Nursery Professional to learn about rose rosette disease in their area.
Collaboration with Texas Nursery & Landscape Association
The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service acknowledges the valuable partnership with the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) in distributing this information.

We believe this initiative will bring beautiful, low-maintenance roses to Texas landscapes and benefit both consumers and the green industry.
Sincerely,
Steven George, Ph.D.
Professor and Extension Earth-Kind® Specialist
National Coordinator of the Earth-Kind® Rose Program
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension


Paul Winski, M.S.
Program Specialist - Commercial Horticulture/Green Industry
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Ph: 979.314.8047
Email: [email protected]


For More Information

• Contact Paul Winski, Program Specialist - Commercial Horticulture/Green Industry ([email protected]u)
• To print our Earth Kind Flyer, click HERE
• To read more about the Three Year Campaign, click HERE
• To print out the Earth Kind Poster, click HERE
• To print out the Earth Kind Benchcard, click HERE