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Texas green industry businesses are facing rising production costs, persistent workforce challenges, and an increasingly unpredictable operating environment. The Texas Nursery and Landscape Association is making sure state lawmakers understand what those pressures mean for our members and what Texas can do to help keep the industry competitive. On August 18, TNLA submitted written testimony on behalf of the Texas green industry to the Texas House Committee on Agriculture and Livestock as the committee examined the resiliency and future competitiveness of Texas agriculture. TNLA thanks Chairman Ryan Guillen for holding the hearing and providing Texas agricultural industries the opportunity to share the economic and regulatory challenges affecting their businesses. Putting the Green Industry’s Economic Impact on the Record In its written testimony, TNLA highlighted the green industry’s significant role in Texas agriculture and the broader state economy. According to a 2025 Texas A&M University economic impact study, the Texas green industry supports 224,490 jobs and generates $35 billion in total economic output. Nursery and greenhouse crops also rank as Texas’ third-largest plant-based agricultural commodity by cash receipts, behind only cotton and corn. But the cost of doing business continues to climb. Production costs for nursery and greenhouse growers increased 67% between 2007 and 2025, including increases of 95% for labor, 68% for containers and 67% for freight. At the same time, industry operating margins have tightened, leaving businesses with less room to absorb additional costs or uncertainty. What TNLA Asked Lawmakers to Consider In its written testimony, TNLA urged lawmakers to consider several practical solutions that could strengthen the long-term resiliency of growers, suppliers and landscape businesses:
Working for You The House Agriculture and Livestock Committee’s interim work will help inform legislative discussions heading into the next legislative session. TNLA will continue engaging lawmakers throughout that process to ensure the green industry’s perspective is represented. Our members grow the plants, supply the materials, build the landscapes and maintain the green spaces Texans interact with every day. TNLA will continue making sure policymakers understand both the industry’s significant contribution to the Texas economy and what our businesses need to remain resilient and competitive. Read TNLA’s full written testimony below.
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How the Right Connection Can Help You Solve Problems Faster When people think about attending a tradeshow, they often focus on the education sessions, exhibits, or products on the show floor. Those things matter. But ask long-time industry professionals why they keep coming back to Nursery/Landscape EXPO, and you’ll often hear a different answer: The people For Billy Long, Past TNLA Chair and longtime industry leader, the value of EXPO comes down to relationships.
In an industry where businesses are working through labor challenges, supplier changes, rising costs, and day-to-day problem-solving, having the right people to call can make a real difference. Sometimes the answer isn’t found online. Sometimes it’s found in a conversation. Why It Matters The right connection can help you:
As Billy puts it: That is one of the reasons EXPO continues to matter. More Than Information. It’s Access. Information is easy to find. What is harder to find is context.
"The value isn’t just attending. The value is knowing who to call when you need help" The relationships built at EXPO often continue long after the show ends. Why Industry Professionals Keep Coming Back
As more growers focus on serving large retailers and national accounts, independent businesses often have to work harder to find unique products, new suppliers, and trusted partners. That’s one reason Mark continues to invest in EXPO. 
"We have probably increased our business with new growers, liner companies, and suppliers by about 80%" And while products and trends may change over time, one thing has not. As Mark puts it: “I go there to meet my people.” Simple. But powerful. Because business is still built on relationships. Join the Conversation The education, exhibits, and events are important parts of EXPO. But some of the most valuable takeaways may come from a conversation you didn’t expect to have.
Join us August 11–13 in San Antonio and discover the value of one conversation. 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 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. 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. 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.  Devin D. Guinn
Chairman Texas Nursery Landscape & Association On December 31, the U.S. Departments of Labor and Homeland Security announced plans to make 35,000 additional H-2B visas available for fiscal year 2026, on top of the 66,000 visas already authorized by Congress each year. The agencies have indicated these supplemental visas will be released through a temporary final rule, with details expected in the coming weeks.
This is welcome news for seasonal employers, but it’s important for TNLA members to understand both what this announcement does and does not address. The Administration confirmed it will use its congressionally granted authority for FY 2026 to release the 35,000 supplemental visas. That number is significantly lower than in recent years, representing roughly a 50 percent reduction compared to the supplemental visas made available in fiscal years 2023 through 2025. The Administration has also indicated that these visas will be targeted toward what it considers critical infrastructure sectors, including forestry, hospitality, tourism, transportation, manufacturing, and related industries. Many green industry businesses could fall within or support these sectors, but the exact eligibility requirements, filing timelines, and worker restrictions have not yet been released. Those details will come once the temporary final rule is published. Even with this announcement, the H-2B program remains heavily oversubscribed. The first-half cap for fiscal year 2026 was reached on September 12, and the second-half cap is expected to be reached quickly. Without a timely release of the supplemental visas and potentially further action by Congress, many seasonal employers will continue to face workforce shortages that directly affect their ability to operate. As TNLA has outlined in its advocacy efforts, the H-2B program is already costly and highly regulated. Employers must recruit U.S. workers, pay premium wages, secure approvals from multiple federal agencies, and comply with strict program requirements. The workers themselves are temporary and seasonal, and they return home at the end of the season. They are not immigrants. For many businesses, access to H-2B labor is what allows them to meet peak demand, keep year-round American employees working, and avoid turning down work or cutting services. For the green industry, lack of access to H-2B labor often means delayed projects, reduced services, higher costs, and lost contracts. Research shows that each additional H-2B worker supports multiple full-time U.S. jobs, including supervisors, drivers, logistics staff, and administrative employees. When labor shortages persist, businesses are forced to scale back operations, putting American jobs at risk and increasing costs for customers. TNLA continues to press both the Administration and Congress to move quickly. This includes urging the Administration to promptly issue the temporary final rule allocating supplemental visas for FY 2026, encouraging Congress to retain seasonal employer protections in the FY 2026 DHS appropriations process, and continuing to push for longer-term cap relief that provides predictability and stability for responsible employers. We are actively using these points on Capitol Hill and in ongoing conversations with federal agencies to advocate for the full scope of the green industry. As more details become available, TNLA will continue sharing updates and practical guidance so members are prepared to act. Link to press release HERE Contact TNLA’s Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Team Curtis Smith – Director – [email protected] Karan Mehta – Manager – [email protected] What Landscapers, Builders, and Suppliers Need to Know San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is preparing to actively inspect soil quality under newly installed turfgrass—a requirement that has been in the city code for nearly 20 years but has never been consistently enforced. This is the first time we’re aware of a Texas water utility inspecting soil quality on single-family homes, and it could influence how other cities handle water-conservation rules in the future. TNLA is tracking this closely to ensure members understand what’s coming and how it may impact your projects in San Antonio and beyond. Why SAWS Is Doing ThisSAWS’ goal is straightforward: improve soil beneath sod so landscapes use less water over time. Better soil means:
What the Ordinance RequiresSan Antonio’s existing soil rule states that new turfgrass must be installed over at least 4 inches of soil, which must include a minimum of 0.25 inches of Soil Organic Matter (SOM). SOM may come from enriched topsoil or contractor soil mixes that improve structure and water-holding capacity. In short: sod must be installed on quality soil that can hold water and support healthy growth. This isn’t a new rule—this is new enforcement. TNLA’s PositionIn November 2024, the TNLA Board formally adopted a position supporting a minimum 4-inch soil depth in areas with water-conservation concerns. The science is clear: Healthy soil is essential for responsible water use and long-term landscape success. TNLA supports soil standards that:
Why This Matters Beyond San Antonio Because SAWS is the first Texas water utility to launch this type of inspection on single-family homes, other municipalities may look to this strategy as a model. This could influence:
What’s NextTNLA will:
Aug 28, 2025 Location: Fort Bend ISD RSVP/Info: https://www.fortbendisd.com/cms/module/selectsurvey/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=761 Short and simple: show up, say hello, and be seen.
Sept 18, 2025TNLA Region VIII Meeting – Waco, TX Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Location: Border Magic – 2324 Robinson Dr, Waco, TX 76706 Cost: Free | Parking: Free Join us for our first TNLA Region VIII Meeting in Waco since COVID! This free event is a great opportunity to connect with fellow green industry professionals, share ideas, and gain valuable insights on building and strengthening your team. Our featured speaker, Michael Bosco, Executive Coach with McFarlin Stanford, Committee Chairperson, and Vice President of the Texas Pest Control Association, will present on Hiring, Recruiting & Onboarding New Team Members. Light refreshments will be provided, and we’ll have door prizes to make the evening even more fun. RSVP by September 18 to Maren Davis at [email protected]. Sept 23, 2025Please join us for the TNLA Region II Meeting on Tuesday, September 23, 5:30–8:00 PM at Houston Community College – Katy Campus. Agenda at a glance
Questions? Contact Jenni Saucier at [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you there. TEIL Awards — Applications Now Open (Deadline Sept 29)Showcase your best work and earn statewide recognition. The Texas Excellence in Landscaping (TEIL) Awards are open now, with a deadline of September 29, 2025. Winners will be honored in January 2026 at the TNLA Awards Festival. Why apply
Questions? Contact [email protected] Oct 3-5, 2025 TNLA and Region VI are partnering up to conduct the West Texas Workshop on October 2-3, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. Schedule of events and pricing information coming soon. Sponsorships are available. For Questions Contact Remmington Holt at [email protected] or call (806) 477-2605.
Texas Garden Retailer Awards — Applications Now Open (Deadline Oct 5)Recognize your team, elevate your brand, and put your best work in front of the statewide industry. The Texas Garden Retailer Awards (TGRA) are officially open—and the entry is quick and straightforward. Why enter
How to enter (takes about 20–30 minutes)
Brochure: Texas Garden Retailer Awards 2025 Brochure Quick tips from the judges’ perspective
Help Us Represent TNLA: Volunteer, Sponsor & Swing-By OpportunitiesTNLA is partnering with Texas programs to strengthen our talent pipeline and connect members with tomorrow’s workforce. We’re calling for volunteers to represent TNLA on-site and sponsors who’d like visibility with students, faculty, and industry partners. (Sponsors may plug their companies—logo on materials, brief intro, and swag—per host guidelines.) Oct 8-10 2025 Texas Tech Industry, Research & Innovation Summit (IRIS) — Lubbock Dates: Oct 8–10, 2025 • Venue: Texas Tech International Cultural Center Why attend: Three focused days where industry meets academia—recruit talent, judge research, mentor student teams, and build partnerships. What’s happening
How you can help
Bonus: Stay for the excitement--Homecoming vs. Kansas on Oct 11. Questions? Email Jeremiah Armstrong at [email protected] with subject “IRIS – Volunteer/Sponsor” and note your availability and company name. Oct 29, 2025Texas A&M Horticultural Sciences Career Fair — College StationDate/Time: Wed, Oct 29, 2025 • 10:00 AM–2:00 PM Location: Horticulture & Forest Science Building, Texas A&M University (Optional networking the evening before: Tue, Oct 28, 6:00–8:00 PM.) Why attend: Meet motivated students across nursery, landscape, wine, produce, floriculture, and related sectors; promote your company and open roles. How you can help
New Tax Breaks, Workforce Wins, and Industry SupportOn July 4, 2025, H.R. 1—known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill”—was signed into law. At 870 pages, it’s one of the most sweeping federal laws in recent history. But here’s the bottom line for TNLA members: it includes some powerful wins for your business.
Here’s what matters most: 🌿 529 Plans Can Now Fund Certifications You can now use 529 education savings to cover industry licenses—like irrigator training, pesticide applicator certification, or landscape credentials. This makes workforce development more accessible for young professionals in our industry. 🔧 Full Write-Offs for Equipment & R&D Businesses can now fully expense:
That means lower tax bills and more room to innovate and invest. 🏦 Loan Interest Deductions Restored Businesses that borrow to buy land, expand greenhouses, or manage inventory can now deduct more interest expenses, thanks to the return of EBITDA-based limits. 💼 199A Pass-Through Deduction Made Permanent The Qualified Business Income deduction for S-corps, LLCs, and sole proprietors now increases from 20% to 23% starting in 2026. That’s more relief for small and mid-sized businesses. 🌱 Expanded Grower Support & Plant Protection
These provisions mean long-term investment in plant health, crop resilience, and industry sustainability. The Takeaway: While the bill didn’t fix everything (especially on the labor side), it delivers significant financial and operational benefits for Texas green industry businesses. TNLA will continue monitoring how funding rolls out—and will keep pushing for additional reforms where they’re needed most. We’ve heard your feedback--webinars are in high demand. More and more TNLA members have asked for access to past sessions, and we’re happy to say: they’re now available on-demand.
Whether you missed a session or want to revisit one with your team, you can now log in at your convenience and gain valuable insights from top experts in the green industry. Simply visit: https://www.pathlms.com/tnla/courses/40432 Use your TNLA Member ID to log in. Need help? Contact: [email protected] ✅ Available Webinars: 💼 Financial Literacy – What You Need to Know! Speaker: Lyndi Sanders Learn how to build a strong business plan, manage essential financial documents, and work with lenders to grow your ag business. 👉 Watch Now 🌎 Know the Facts: H-2A and H-2B Guest Worker Programs Speaker: Arnulfo Hinojosa, Federation of Employers & Workers of America Understand compliance requirements, worker recruitment, and what’s happening with reform efforts in D.C. 👉 Watch Now 🔐 Steps Employers Can Take to Avoid I-9 Audits Speaker: Jacob Monty, Monty & Ramirez LLP Covers identity theft, SSA no-match letters, and compliance steps to avoid costly penalties. 👉 Watch Now 🌪️ Federal Crop Insurance – Hurricane & Tropical Storm Coverage Speaker: Jeff Vanlandingham, Tarpon Blue Insurance Advisors Get the facts on how indemnities are paid, policy timing, and how NOAA data affects payout eligibility. 👉 Watch Now We know how important it is to stay informed, especially when time is limited. These webinars are designed to deliver value--no matter your role in the green industry. 📅 More webinars are on the way—so stay tuned, and thank you for continuing to grow with TNLA. |
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October 2026
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