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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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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.
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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.
Each year, the Lone Star Hort Forum brings together leaders from across the Texas green industry to step away from day-to-day demands and focus on what matters most: people, leadership, and the future of our businesses. This year’s Forum did exactly that — through honest conversations, practical learning, and moments that reminded us why this community matters. Day One: Grounded Perspectives and Practical TakeawaysDay One focused on real-world challenges and tools leaders can take back to their teams right away  We kicked off Day One with a familiar and trusted voice. Charlie Hall, a long-time Lone Star Hort Forum contributor, returned with his annual economic forecast — helping attendees better understand where the industry stands and how to plan for the year ahead with clarity and realism. From there, the day moved into sessions that resonated deeply with attendees because they addressed real challenges leaders are navigating right now:
A Special Highlight: Women in Horticulture One of the most impactful conversations of Day One took place during the Women in Horticulture session, which focused on how internal triggers affect leadership, communication, and workplace dynamics. The session explored a simple but powerful concept: our thoughts influence our feelings, which influence our actions — and ultimately our results. Attendees walked away with practical strategies to:
It was a thoughtful conversation that extended well beyond the room and reinforced the importance of self-awareness in leadership at every level. Live Podcast Recordings — Now Available Throughout the day, several live podcast conversations were recorded on-site and are now available to listen to at no cost:
Day Two: Celebrating Excellence and Learning From Each OtherDay Two began with the TNLA Awards Festival, where the community came together to recognize peers, celebrate excellence, and honor those who have helped move the industry forward. Honorary Lifetime Membership Award Winners: This year’s Festival carried special meaning as we honored Jim Reaves, a former TNLA staff member who passed away in August. Jim was posthumously awarded an Honorary Lifetime Membership, recognizing his lasting contributions and the impact he made on the Association and the people within it. Young Leader Award Winner- Dylan Cantu, TMCNP of Calloway's Nursery What Was New This Year Several award programs introduced meaningful updates in 2026: Texas Garden Retailers Awards (TGRA)This year marked the introduction of a secret shopper component, adding a new layer of insight and accountability to the judging process and reinforcing the importance of customer experience at every touchpoint. View all TGRA award winners HERE Texas Excellence in Landscaping Awards (TEIL) The TEIL program continued to evolve, with judges noting a strong field of submissions that showcased:
View all TEIL award winners HERE Summit Award Winner- Austin Wood Recycling / Texas Native ARP Award Winner- C. Scott Evans TMCNP, TCLP of Rancho Encino, FEWA & Native Jump Start Industry & Emerge Tours In the afternoon, attendees headed out on the Industry Tour and the Emerge Tours. These tours offered behind-the-scenes looks at real operations and real conversations, the kind that don’t happen in a classroom. Discussions on the bus, on-site, and face-to-face allowed participants to learn directly from peers about how they’re solving challenges and running successful businesses. A sincere thank you to our tour stop hosts for opening your doors and sharing your time and insight with our members. Day Three: Investing in Leadership and the Future The Forum concluded with the graduation of TNLA Leadership Bootcamp Class V, a milestone that represents months of learning, reflection, and personal growth.  Leadership Bootcamp is about more than professional development, it’s about building self-aware, confident leaders who are prepared to guide teams, navigate change, and contribute meaningfully to the industry. We are proud of this class and grateful for the perspective and energy they bring to the Texas green industry. The Forum closed with a forward-looking keynote, “Smarter, Faster, Stronger: How AI Can Future-Proof Your Nursery & Landscape Business,” reinforcing the importance of adaptability, curiosity, and thoughtful adoption of new tools. Why Lone Star Hort Forum Still Matters Lone Star Hort Forum isn’t about checking a box or attending another event. It’s about creating space — space to listen, reflect, learn from peers, and reconnect with why we do this work. Seeing the community show up for one another — in conversations, in recognition, and in shared experiences — is always why we do what we do. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make Lone Star Hort Forum 2026 meaningful. Special thanks to all our wonderful sponsors  The two-spot cotton leafhopper (Amrasca biguttula) has recently been detected in Texas, traced to hibiscus shipments from out-of-state. This pest is already appearing in retail environments and poses a serious risk to ornamental plants and crops.  Why This Matters
What You Should Do We are asking all industry professionals to share this alert with retailers, growers, suppliers and landscapers in your network. Early identification and coordinated action are essential to prevent this pest from becoming established in Texas. Retailers:
TNLA is monitoring this situation closely and will share updates as they develop. Early identification and coordinated action are critical to preventing widespread establishment in Texas. For additional background, you may also review the Florida pest alert issued late last year. FREE Upcoming Webinar – Save the Date Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper: What Texas Needs to Know Friday, September 5, 2025 | 12:00 PM CST Presenter: Dr. Rafia Khan, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Dr. Khan will cover identification, early warning signs, and management practices for protecting plants and operations Register Here Questions? Curtis Smith, Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs [email protected] | (409) 673-6048 Thank you for helping us spread the word and protect Texas’ green industry. FREE Webinar: Stay Compliant & Avoid I-9 AuditsThursday, June 12, 2025 🕐 12:30 PM I-9 audits are increasing across the country—and for many businesses, one misstep could mean costly consequences. TNLA is teaming up with legal expert Jacob Monty of Monty & Ramirez LLP to bring you a can’t-miss compliance webinar: “Steps Employers Can Take to Avoid I-9 Audits and Stay Compliant.” 🔍 Topics include:
Horticulture Exploration Day – Texas A&MJune 2, 2025 | 1:00 – 4:00 PM Location: In the Horticulture/Forest Science Building: 495 Horticulture Rd, College Station, TX 77843 Who Should Attend: Anyone interested in horticulture-related careers Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply curious about horticulture, this event at Texas A&M offers a closer look into degree programs and careers in plant science. Attendees will explore everything from floral design and plant genetics to controlled environment horticulture—and meet with current students and faculty along the way 🪴 Pro Tip: You’re welcome to attend both! One connects you statewide, the other strengthens your local network. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned professional, there’s something for everyone.  Women in Horticulture Events – Two Unique Opportunities to ConnectWe’re excited to share not one, but two upcoming Women in Horticulture gatherings—each with its own focus and purpose. Here’s what you need to know so you don’t miss out: 🌼 TNLA Women in Hort Virtual Meeting Hosted by TNLA (Statewide) 📅 Wednesday, June 25, 2025 | 🕙 10:00 AM | 💻 Virtual Join women across Texas in this virtual statewide event featuring guest speaker Jennifer Hatalski, TCNP of Calloway’s Nursery. This is a great chance to gain professional insight, ask questions, and feel inspired by other women in the industry—no matter where you're located.  🌿 Region VIII – In-Person Women in Hort Gathering Hosted by TNLA Region VIII (Central Texas Only) 📅 Saturday, June 7, 2025 | 🕓 4:00–8:00 PM 📍 Bear Creek Retreat, 13813 Carpenter Ln, Manchaca, TX 78652 This in-person gathering is exclusively for women in TNLA’s Region VIII, including Austin, San Antonio, and surrounding areas. It’s all about building local connections, swapping knowledge, and supporting one another in a relaxed, welcoming setting. RSVP to:[email protected]  OLE! Texas – Virtual Designer Training SeminarJuly 24–25, 2025 Hosted Online Calling all landscape architects and designers! The Outdoor Learning Environment (OLE!) Texas program is offering a two-day virtual seminar to train professionals on how to support nature-based outdoor spaces for early childhood education programs. 💸 Scholarships available to cover the $1,000 course fee—apply today!
 👏 What TNLA is Doing
From leading I-9 compliance efforts to promoting professional development opportunities like Women in Hort, TNLA is committed to connecting you with the resources that matter most. We advocate, we educate, and we cultivate a stronger green industry—together. Stay tuned for more upcoming events, and make sure you’re following us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for updates! In today’s fast-paced Green Industry, having strong, adaptable leaders is essential for long-term business success. But leadership isn’t something that just happens—it’s developed, refined, and strengthened over time. That’s where TNLA Leadership Bootcamp comes in. This exclusive, industry-specific leadership development program is designed to equip professionals with the practical skills, confidence, and industry connections they need to grow into effective managers and future leaders. Why Enroll One of Your Employees? Investing in leadership training isn’t just about developing an individual—it’s about strengthening your entire business. Here’s how sending a team member to TNLA Leadership Bootcamp can benefit your company: ✅ Build Stronger Leaders – Develop confident, capable employees who can take initiative, manage teams, and solve problems effectively.  ✅ Increase Employee Retention – Employees who feel valued and invested in are more likely to stay, reducing turnover and increasing loyalty.  ✅ Gain Immediate Business Impact – Participants don’t just learn theory—they get real-world strategies they can implement immediately to improve operations and team dynamics.  ✅ Expand Your Network – Through roundtable discussions, facility tours, and one-on-one mentorship, participants build valuable connections with industry leaders.  ✅ Future-Proof Your Business – A strong leadership pipeline ensures your business is prepared for growth, succession planning, and industry changes.  What Participants Will Experience The four-part program (August 2025 – January 2026) includes: 📍 32+ Hours of Leadership Training – Hands-on education to build management and leadership skills. 📍 10+ Hours of Exclusive Facility Tours – Firsthand insights into successful operations. 📍 One-on-One Mentorship – Guidance from experienced industry professionals. 📍 Self-Assessment & Personal Development – Helping participants understand their leadership style. 📍 Complimentary Registration – To TNLA’s 2025 Nursery/Landscape EXPO (San Antonio) and 2026 Lone Star Hort Forum (Grapevine). Session Schedule
With only 20 seats available, this program fills up fast. The member rate of $1,000 is available until June 11, 2025. 📩 Apply Now: Application Link Learn More: TNLA Leadership Bootcamp Questions? Contact Sarah Riggins: [email protected] Congratulations to the TNLA Leadership Bootcamp Class IV of 2024-2025  Start the Year Strong with TNLA: Events and Resources for 2025
As we begin 2025, the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) is excited to offer an engaging lineup of events and resources designed to empower professionals and businesses in the green industry. From educational workshops to networking opportunities, here’s a look at what’s coming up this year: 1. Region V Networking Meeting Date: January 21, 2025 Time: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Details: Kick off the year by connecting with peers and discussing regional initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas, collaborate, and strengthen your local network. 2. Meet the Region VII Board Date: January 22, 2025 Time: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Details: Join us for this all-day event where you’ll meet the Region VII Board members. Learn about their goals for the year, provide your input, and find ways to get involved in shaping the future of the industry. 3. TNLA Region II Winter Workshop Date: January 31, 2025 Time: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Location: West Houston Institute, Houston Community College, 2811 Hayes Road, Houston, TX 77082 Details: This full-day workshop is packed with educational sessions tailored for the green industry, offered in both English and Spanish. Topics include landscaping and maintenance, healthy plants and soil, business development, OSHA safety, and more. A dedicated Irrigation Track is available, offering 8 hours of TCEQ-approved CEU credit. Lunch is included, and you’ll also have the chance to network with exhibitors and industry professionals. This workshop is a must-attend event for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and build connections in 2025. 4. TNLA Region 7: State of Water in Texas Meeting Date: February 6, 2025 Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Location: AgriLife Weslaco Auditorium, 2415 US-83 BUS, Weslaco, TX 78596 Details: This meeting will explore the current state of water resources in Texas, featuring presentations by Curtis Smith Lunch will be free for members that rsvp and will be $10 for non members that RSVP. Please email [email protected] for questions or to RSVP Zoom links will be available for members unable to attend in person, ensuring everyone can access this vital information. 5. Women in Hort Virtual Meeting Date: February 19, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Details: This virtual gathering is designed to connect and empower women in the horticulture industry. Share experiences, gain valuable insights, and grow professionally in a supportive and inspiring environment. Our guest speaker, Lori Whitten from Action Visa, will talk about H2B visa work and its impact on our industry. We’ll also discuss industry trends, TNLA updates, and the latest plans for the Women in Hort event at Expo. Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85471358024?pwd=Oi4L22jarxBBRirdTjtpEasSIRkDV0.1&from=addon Meeting ID: 854 7135 8024 Passcode: 158380 6. 2025 TNLA Legislative Day Date: March 13, 2025 Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Details: Join us at the Texas Capitol to advocate for policies that support the green industry. This is a unique opportunity to engage with policymakers, share your perspectives, and help shape the future of the industry. Let’s Make 2025 a Year of Growth and Success TNLA is committed to providing the tools, resources, and opportunities you need to succeed. Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain new insights, or advocate for our industry, there’s something for everyone in this year’s lineup. Don’t miss out—visit our Events Calendar for full details and registration information. Click HERE We look forward to supporting your growth and success in 2025. Together, let’s make this year one to remember! In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, TNLA's Kim Cabrera, Membership & Marketing Manager, sat down with Carmelo Orellano with Estructura LLC to talk about his journey within the Industry, overcoming challenges as a first-time business owner, and his invaluable connections through TNLA.
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:
 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 |
AuthorKim Cabrera, TNLA Marketing Manager Archives
July 2026
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