 Rafia Khan, Ph. D. Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center Overton, Tx. Winter freezes often bring hope that cold weather will eliminate insect pests in landscapes and nurseries, offering a natural reset before the next growing season. After several nights of subfreezing temperatures, it is common to expect fewer insects and reduced pest pressure in spring. While freezing temperatures can suppress or temporarily reduce some exposed pest populations, they rarely provide complete control. Many insects are surprisingly resilient and well-adapted to surviving winter conditions through protective behaviors and physiological adaptations, allowing them to rebound quickly once temperatures warm.
Insects are exothermic or cold-blooded; their activity slows as temperatures drop. Feeding, reproduction, and development pause, and extreme cold can kill exposed individuals. However, many species avoid lethal temperatures by seeking protection in soil, mulch, bark crevices, plant crowns, or greenhouse structures. These microhabitats stay warmer than the surrounding air, thereby improving survival. Many insects can survive through dormancy (diapause) or by producing “antifreeze” compounds such as glycerol, sorbitol, antifreeze proteins, etc. that protect their tissues from freezing injury. Eggs, pupae, scales, borers, and soil-dwelling pests are especially resilient. As a result, even after a hard freeze, enough individuals often survive to quickly rebuild populations in spring. Freezes may temporarily suppress exposed pests such as aphids or caterpillars, but they should not be relied upon as a primary management tool. Warmer temperatures can lead to rapid reproduction and early-season outbreaks. Instead, winter is an ideal time to strengthen integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Remove plant debris, prune heavily infested branches, inspect bark and crowns for overwintering stages, and consider dormant oil applications for scales, mites, and aphids. Continue monitoring in greenhouses where pests may survive year-round.
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Rafia Khan, Ph.D. Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center, Overton, TX Winter can feel like a break from pest pressure, but for nursery and greenhouse growers, many insects are still present and waiting for the right conditions. Protected structures, mild winter weather, and overwintering life stages allow many pests to survive on plants, in pots, in growing areas, in debris, and in weeds. If these pest populations are not addressed, they often resume early and aggressively in spring. Common winter pests include aphids, thrips, mealybugs, scale insects, whiteflies, spider mites, and greenhouse moth pests such as the European pepper moth. These insects can survive on plant material, in potting media, or within greenhouse structures, often going unnoticed until populations increase. Programmed scouting remains the foundation of winter Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Monitoring efforts should be focused on current in-house plants and newly arrived plant material. Inspect leaf undersides, stems, and growing points, and use sticky cards to detect flying insects early. Cultural practices play a key role in reducing pest pressure during winter. Sanitation, such as the removal of plant debris, leftover shipped plants, weeds, volunteer plants, and unused containers, should be removed from the production sites as they may harbor pests. Manage irrigation carefully to avoid conditions favorable for fungus gnats and root pests, and inspect incoming plants before placing them into production areas. When treatments are necessary, applying products strategically and rotating insecticide modes of action helps protect product performance and avoid costly resistance issues. Winter is also the best time for growers to step back and evaluate what worked and what didn’t during the past season. Reviewing pest records, adjusting management plans, and training employees to recognize early pest signs can pay off quickly. Investing time in winter pest management reduces carryover populations, improves plant quality, and helps operations enter spring with fewer surprises and lower control costs. Figure: Some greenhouse pests in winter. European pepper moth larva (A) and adult (B), Thrips (C), and mealybug (D) Rafia Khan, Ph.D. Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center, Overton, TX Texas A&M AgriLife Extension is working on publishing a series of educational articles to assist homeowners and green industry professionals in recognizing and managing two recently confirmed invasive insect pests in Texas: the two-spot cotton leafhopper (Amrasca biguttula) and the short-spined thrips (Thrips parvispinus). These pests pose emerging risks to ornamental plants by affecting plant health, appearance, and market value.
The planned articles will provide clear descriptions of pest identification and injury patterns to support early detection. Feeding by the two-spot cotton leafhopper causes a condition known as “hopperburn,” characterized by leaf curling, yellowing, bronzing, reduced vigor, and, in severe cases, plant death. This pest attacks a wide range of ornamental hosts, including hibiscus, and is often difficult to detect due to its small size and concealed feeding behavior. Short-spined thrips are tiny, highly polyphagous insects that feed on numerous ornamental crops, including annual bedding plants and tropical ornamentals. Their feeding leads to foliar scarring, distorted shoots, flower drops, and stunted growth, resulting in reduced plant quality and marketability. In addition to injury symptoms, the articles will summarize current regulatory actions, including quarantine measures and inspection efforts implemented by regulatory agencies to limit pest movement and spread. Management options discussed will be based on science-based recommendations developed from research conducted by other researchers and institutions, with an emphasis on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies such as monitoring, sanitation, cultural practices, and targeted chemical controls when necessary. Through these publications, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension aims to improve awareness, encourage early reporting, and promote informed decision-making. By providing timely, research-informed guidance, Extension seeks to help homeowners and professionals reduce the impact of these invasive pests and protect the long-term sustainability of Texas landscapes and ornamental production systems. Practical GuideThe Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has issued an emergency quarantine to prevent the spread of the invasive Cotton Jassid or Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper, a destructive pest first detected on imported hibiscus plants. The quarantine currently applies to all Hibiscus species, but may expand to include additional host plants as more data becomes available. The quarantine currently covers shipments from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, South Carolina, and North Carolina, where the pest has been detected. It also applies to Texas counties where detections have occurred, halting the movement of hostable plants without required phytosanitary documentation Current Quarantined Texas Counties
Conditions for MovementNo regulated articles may move from or within quarantined areas except under the following conditions:
➡️ Violations are subject to penalties under the Texas Agriculture Code, including fines up to $4,000 per violation, seizure or destruction of articles at the owner’s expense, and potential criminal charges. Management Recommendations (Non-Regulatory) While the quarantine focuses on movement control, TDA and Texas A&M AgriLife recommend the following Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies in infested areas:
TNLA Member Update TNLA is in close communication with TDA’s Plant Quality Division and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension entomologists to ensure the industry has up-to-date guidance and clear compliance information.
Members are encouraged to:
👉 Learn more and view TDA’s current quarantine notice. 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. Your voice matters. Right now, two surveys are open that will shape decisions directly affecting Texas nurseries, greenhouses, and landscapers. We encourage all members to take a few minutes to participate so our industry’s needs are represented. 1) IR-4 Priority Setting Survey (Due Aug 29 The IR-4 Environmental Horticulture Program is setting its national research priorities for the next two years, and grower input will determine which pest, disease, and weed issues get funded. Right now, 75% of survey responses are from cut flower growers. If nursery and greenhouse producers don’t participate, our day-to-day challenges may not be reflected in IR-4’s plan. What we’re asking:
2) Native Tree Availability Survey (Due Sept 5) Upcoming local rulemaking may impact tree planting and availability. To prepare, TNLA is gathering marketplace data to show what species are realistically available.
What we’re asking:
Thank You for Taking Action Both of these surveys are short, but the impact is significant. By participating, you ensure the voice of Texas growers and retailers is part of the larger conversation shaping our industry’s future. Bell County now marks the furthest south the invasive pest has been confirmed in the U.S. The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) has been newly confirmed in Jack, Navarro, Somervell, Bell, and Rockwall counties, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. Notably, Bell County’s detection marks the southernmost known presence of EAB in the United States—a major milestone in the pest’s expansion and a growing threat to Texas ash tree populations. 🪲 What is Emerald Ash Borer? The emerald ash borer is a destructive, exotic beetle that infests and kills ash trees by burrowing beneath the bark and cutting off the flow of water and nutrients. Once infested, ash trees typically die within 2–3 years. EAB was first confirmed in Texas in 2016 and has now been detected in 31 counties statewide. The latest confirmations in 2024 represent a notable southward jump, increasing the risk for nurseries, landscapes, and natural ash populations across Central Texas. Counties Affected  The USDA Interactive Map displays confirmed detections across the U.S., including the growing number in Texas.
What’s Being Done to Tackle It The Texas A&M Forest Service is leading surveillance and outreach efforts to slow the spread of EAB. Confirmed counties are subject to state quarantines that restrict the movement of ash wood products to prevent further dispersal. Ongoing education and early detection efforts are critical tools in protecting remaining ash populations. Key Considerations for TNLA Members
Next Steps from TNLA TNLA is monitoring the EAB expansion and will continue to work with federal, state, and local officials to ensure members remain informed and compliant. If you have questions about how EAB may impact your nursery or landscape operation, don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected] or [email protected] 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’re excited to share great news--HB 1592 is now law in Texas, creating a statewide pest and plant disease alert system through Texas A&M AgriLife.
This important legislation was authored by Rep. Mihaela Plesa, sponsored by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, and backed by strong bipartisan support. It moved smoothly through the Capitol and was allowed to become law by Governor Greg Abbott. What Does HB 1592 Do? The new law creates a real-time, email-based alert system to notify:
Why It Matters ✔️ Faster response times to outbreaks ✔️ Less damage to plants and landscapes ✔️ More protection for Texas ecosystems and the green industry ✔️ Better preparedness for changing weather and pest patterns From nurseries and retail centers to city parks and farms, this new tool gives Texans a better way to protect the plants we depend on. TNLA Member Voices Made the Difference We’re proud that Bill Carson of Native Texas Nursery testified in support of the bill. His voice—and the support of TNLA members across the state—helped lawmakers understand the real-world need for this kind of early warning system. Looking Ahead When HB 1592 reached the Governor’s desk on May 25, we celebrated. Now that it’s law, we celebrate again—knowing that Texas is better prepared to fight invasive species and plant health threats. This is more than just a policy win. It’s a step forward for:
The Texas Legislature is nearing the end of its 140-day regular session, with the end of session set for June 2, 2025. While that marks the formal close of business, the Governor retains the authority to call lawmakers back into special session at any time, for any reason. Below is an update on key developments at the State Capitol—and a look at our efforts on the federal front.
Protecting Professional Standards: TNLA Helps Stop Risky Licensing Loophole Senate Bill 2702 failed to pass this session—thanks in large part to TNLA and our licensed irrigator members. The bill would have allowed out-of-state education credentials to substitute for Texas-specific licensing requirements, such as the 40-hour course required before taking the Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) exam. While well-intentioned, it posed serious risks:
Big News for the Texas Green Industry: Plant Disease and Pest Alert System Headed to Governor’s Desk A major win—TNLA’s plant disease and pest email alert bill has passed both chambers and is on its way to the Governor. The bill establishes a voluntary, opt-in email alert system, administered by Texas A&M AgriLife, to notify professionals, agencies, and the public when pests or plant diseases are detected and move across our state. Benefits include:
Special thanks to Rep. Mihaela Plesa for authoring the bill and to Bill Carson (Native Texas Nursery) for testifying in committee. TNLA Went to Washington #SaveH2B On May 20, TNLA sent five members to Washington, D.C. for the annual H-2B Fly-In, hosted by NALP and FEWA. Alongside 80+ leaders from 25 states, our group met with 125 Congressional offices, including key Texans. They shared how the H-2B visa program supports:
Trump White House Releases Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment On May 22, the Trump Administration released the Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment, initiated by executive order. The report addresses the alarming rise in childhood chronic illness and identifies four main drivers:
Why it matters for TNLA: The report highlights risks related to pesticide exposure and degraded outdoor environments—areas TNLA works to improve. It also criticizes weak federal oversight influenced by corporate lobbying, especially in agriculture and chemical safety. Importantly, it advocates for restoring access to clean, green spaces—an area where landscape professionals and growers play a key role. TNLA members are part of the solution through sustainable practices, healthy landscapes, and promoting environmental stewardship. 🔗 Read the full report here: whitehouse.gov/maha |
AuthorKim Cabrera, TNLA Marketing Manager Archives
February 2026
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