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.
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This year’s Forum did exactly that — through honest conversations, practical learning, and moments that reminded us why this community matters.

​Day 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:

• Practical applications of AI that can actually be used in daily operations
• Workplace safety and preparedness in today’s environment
• Leadership mindset and decision-making under pressure

These sessions weren’t about theory — they were about tools, perspective, and making better decisions back at the office.

​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:

• Recognize triggers before situations escalate
• Pause and reflect in high-pressure moments
• Approach difficult conversations with curiosity rather than fear
• Lead with greater composure, empathy, and confidence

​It was a thoughtful conversation that extended well beyond the room and reinforced the importance of self-awareness in leadership at every level.
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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:

• H-2B Updates with Jacob Monty
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=Mk519uW5FLG
• Economic Forecast
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=laGLyc8qTK2
• Top Tips for Talent
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=qzEpeIxwuW9
• D.E.E.D. to Success
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=RDL6kt3jC2m
• How the Green Industry Can Embrace the Unknown
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=wnElnSqgu83
• Employers’ Biggest Legal Mistakes
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=3npGgcMoSJx

Day 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.

​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.

​Several award programs introduced meaningful updates in 2026:

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

The TEIL program continued to evolve, with judges noting a strong field of submissions that showcased:

• Higher-quality storytelling
• Clear before-and-after transformations
• Greater insight into design intent, execution, and results

These updates strengthened the integrity of the program and highlighted the craftsmanship and professionalism across the industry.

​View all TEIL award winners HERE

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.
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A sincere thank you to our tour stop hosts for opening your doors and sharing your time and insight with our members.

​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.
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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.

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.
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Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make Lone Star Hort Forum 2026 meaningful.

At the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA), our mission is to elevate the business success of our members through advocacy, education, networking, and professionalism. For more than 80 years, TNLA has served as the trusted resource and unifying voice of the Texas Green Industry — empowering members to grow their businesses and strengthen their communities.
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, TNLA is proud to spotlight one of our long-time members, Ruibal’s Plants of Texas, a family-owned Dallas nursery whose story embodies the values of leadership, inclusion, and community that define our industry.
TNLA Chairman Devin Guinn is continuing his mission to spotlight the diversity, leadership, and heart that make up our horticulture community.

For his second Chairman Member Spotlight, Devin visited Ruibal’s Plants of Texas in Dallas — a family-run business whose story blends hard work, inclusion, and generational growth.

Founded by Michael and Linda Ruibal, Ruibal’s began as a small color plant operation and has since grown to nearly 195 greenhouses, four Dallas retail nurseries, a wholesale farm, and even a new restaurant, Bucket & Rope (a name inspired by Michael’s grandson’s childhood nickname for Baby Doe’s restaurant).

But what makes Ruibal’s truly remarkable isn’t just their success — it’s their commitment to community and opportunity. For 34 years, the family has partnered with Notre Dame School of Dallas, providing students with disabilities hands-on work experience and helping them transition from school to meaningful employment. That partnership began thanks to Linda Ruibal, whose daughter attended Notre Dame and inspired the family to give back in a lasting way.

The Ruibals also run a unique farm system, where young teens (some as young as 12) work alongside their parents on weekends, loading cars for tips and learning responsibility. Many of these young workers stay through high school — and several return as full-time employees with their own clientele.

Now entering its third generation, the company is transitioning leadership from Michael and Linda to their son, Mark Ruibal. Mark shared how they’ve been evolving from a “family-tells-you-what-to-do” model to a more collaborative operation, where roles are delegated, and employees — many of whom have grown up within the company — are empowered to lead.

During the visit, Mark reflected on how TNLA has shaped his journey.
“TNLA helped me realize that so many of our peers are facing the same challenges we are. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone — and it’s important to pay attention to what others are doing and foster that collaboration. We might not always agree, but TNLA provides that platform for open conversation and growth.”

As a long-time TNLA member, Ruibal’s has found value in staying informed on water and legislative updates, while also investing in certification programs that have helped many of their employees become Certified Nurserymen — building credibility and expertise they can proudly share with customers.
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For Devin, this visit was a perfect example of what his Chairman theme represents: celebrating diversity in our community and uplifting women in horticulture. Through Linda’s leadership, the Ruibal family has built a legacy that grows far beyond plants — they’ve cultivated opportunity, compassion, and connection.

Watch the full spotlight interview here or click the image below: https://youtu.be/IvIiy3Dvf6U​

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.

• Light lift—no major prep.
• Great chance to answer questions and spark interest in horticulture careers.
• Even a brief visit helps put our industry on students’ radar.

If you can swing by, please note it on the form above and [email protected] so we can track TNLA presence.

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

• Industry credibility: Stand out as a leader in landscaping.
• Statewide promotion: Winners are highlighted across TNLA media and events.
• Team pride: Celebrate your crew’s craftsmanship and results.

How to apply (simple 3-step process)

1. Gather project photos — include before, during, and after to tell the full story.
2. Tell the story — outline challenges, solutions, and measurable results.
3. Submit online by Sept 29 — applications opened March 1, 2025.

Pro tips for stronger entries

• Assign someone to capture progress photos on every job.
• Highlight innovation, sustainability, and craftsmanship—these elements stand out.

Apply here: TEIL
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Questions? Contact [email protected]

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.​

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

• Credibility with customers and partners
• Recognition for your staff’s work
• Visibility you can leverage all year (web, social, in-store)

“This award is incredibly special because it acknowledges the hard work, passion, and dedication of our team.” — Mckenna Jenkins, Sales & Marketing Director, Alldredge Gardens

How to enter (takes about 20–30 minutes)

1. Take 5–10 photos of your store/displays
2. Complete the short entry form
3. Submit online by Sunday, Oct 5

Enter here: tnlaonline.org/tgra.html
Brochure: Texas Garden Retailer Awards 2025 Brochure 

Quick tips from the judges’ perspective

• Shoot on a bright day; include wide shots + close-ups of your best displays
• If you’ve got fall décor up, include it—seasonal touches help tell your story

Questions? Contact [email protected] and we’ll point you in the right direction.

TNLA 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.)
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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

• Oct 8 – Davis College Career Fair (10:00 AM–2:00 PM)
  Find internship and full-time candidates. Breakfast & lunch provided.
• Oct 9 – Research Showcase
  • 8:00 AM–1:00 PM: View faculty/grad presentations + keynote luncheon with researchers
  • 1:00–5:00 PM: Graduate student poster session (industry judges welcome)
  • ~5:00 PM: Poster awards & reception
• Oct 10 – Industry & Innovation Day
  Bring a real business challenge, mentor student teams, and hear pitches. Winning teams receive scholarships and potential commercialization support. Breakfast & lunch provided.

How you can help

• Volunteers: Staff the TNLA presence (2–4 hr shift), judge posters (Oct 9), or mentor teams (Oct 10).
• Sponsors/Donors: Help underwrite facilities, meals, and student scholarships; receive recognition and the chance to showcase your company.

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.

Date/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

• Volunteers: Represent TNLA, greet students, share industry pathways, and collect contact leads for member companies (2–4 hr shift).
• Sponsors: Support materials/outreach; receive logo placement on table signage/handouts and a brief booth intro (as permitted).

Ready to participate? Email Jeremiah Armstrong at [email protected] with subject “Texas A&M – Volunteer/Sponsor” and include your company name and preferred time window.

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