Tuesday Schedule

ISA and TNLA CEUs available This session equips landscapers and arborists with the tools and techniques needed to assess tree risk effectively. Learn how to identify structural defects, evaluate risk levels, and communicate findings to clients for proactive tree care and liability reduction.

Key Takeaways:

1. Recognize Warning Signs Early – Learn how to identify signs of decay, root instability, and canopy imbalance that may indicate increased risk.

2. Apply Standardized Assessment Methods – Use industry-recognized protocols like TRAQ (Tree Risk Assessment Qualification) to evaluate and document tree conditions.

3. Communicate Clearly with Clients – Effectively explain risk levels and recommend mitigation options to support safety and informed decision-making.

With expert speaker: Mike Sills, Texas Forest Service Mike Sills has been a Regional Urban Forester for the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Dallas Region for eight years. He graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1995 with a B.S. in Forestry and has been an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist since 1997. He has received accreditation as a Certified Forester and Board-Certified Master Arborist from the Society of American Foresters and International Society of Arboriculture, respectively. He is a Private Pilot and volunteers with the Civil Air Patrol. He and his wife of 24 years, Ginny, enjoy traveling and being at home with their dog, Keelagh, and their rabbit, Captain Hastings.Read less...

Dr. Stephanie Adams, Texas A&M University

This session examines common soil-borne pathogens that impact plant health, such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. Attendees will learn how to identify symptoms, understand disease cycles, and implement effective prevention and control strategies.

Key Takeaways:

1. Recognize the Warning Signs – Early symptoms like root rot, wilting, and stunted growth often signal hidden soil-borne infections.

2. Understand the Conditions – Warm, wet, and poorly drained soils create ideal environments for pathogen development and spread.

3. Integrated Management is Key – Use a combination of sanitation, resistant varieties, proper irrigation, and fungicide applications to keep pathogens in check.

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Dr. Stephanie Adams, Texas A&M University 

Root rot is a common yet serious issue that can silently undermine plant health and landscape investment. This session covers how to identify, prevent, and manage root rot caused by fungal pathogens and poor soil conditions.

Key Takeaways:

1. Early Detection is Key – Symptoms like yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting may signal root rot long before visible decline.

2. Improve Soil and Drainage – Overwatering, compacted soils, and poor drainage create ideal conditions for root rot pathogens to thrive.

3. Integrated Management Approaches – Combining cultural practices, resistant plant selections, and targeted fungicide applications can help manage and prevent outbreaks.

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Explore how to optimize landscape irrigation using tools and technology designed for evapotranspiration (ET)-based scheduling. This session provides practical guidance on using data-driven systems to improve water efficiency, reduce waste, and support sustainable landscape management. Takeaways: -Learn how ET data improves irrigation scheduling for healthier landscapes with less water.\ -Discover the latest ET tools and how to integrate them into existing irrigation systems. with Charles Swanson, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Must attend full day to receive 8 hours TCEQ CEUsRead less...

TNLA and LA CES CEUs Join us for a discussion regarding tree permit considerations and the arborist’s role -Tree Permit Considerations -Tree Ordinance Considerations -Arborist Role Justin Krobot  Read less...

LA CES and TNLA CEUs with Dr. Andrew King, Texas AgriLife Research and Extension

Healthy trees start with healthy soils. This session explores how soil structure, biology, and management practices directly influence tree establishment, growth, and resilience. Participants will learn strategies to assess and improve soil conditions for long-term tree success.

Key Takeaways:

1. Soil Health is Tree Health – Compaction, poor drainage, and low organic matter are common issues that limit root growth and tree vitality.

2. Feed the Soil Food Web – Encouraging beneficial microbes through compost, mulch, and reduced chemical use supports nutrient cycling and disease resistance.

3. Assess Before You Plant – Soil testing and site evaluation help select the right species and guide amendments for optimal root development.

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Panel Discussion with MP Studios

Join this dynamic panel discussion featuring the design team from MP Studios as they share the inspiration, process, and lessons learned from developing the Arboretum San Antonio. This session offers a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary landscape architecture meets ecological and community goals.

Key Takeaways:

1. Designing with Purpose – Learn how the Arboretum integrates native ecosystems, education, and public engagement into a cohesive landscape vision.

2. Collaboration is Key – Explore how architects, horticulturists, and community stakeholders worked together to bring the project to life.

3. From Concept to Reality – Gain insight into the challenges and solutions behind site planning, plant selection, and long-term sustainability in large-scale public projects.

  Panelist 1: Adriana Quinones, Arboretum San Antonio – Owner & Client Role: CEO, Arboretum San Antonio Panelist 2: Mark Bird, City of San Antonio – Arboretum Advisory Board & City Arborist Role: Advisory Board Member Panelist 3: Andrew Sell, Sasaki – Lead Planning and Landscape Architecture Role: Project Manager Panelist 4: Scott Anderson, Urban Tree Company – Arborist Role: ISA Certified Arborist Moderator: Alex Gonzalez, MP Studio – Local Landscape Architect Role: Landscape Architec  Read less...

Andrew King, Texas AgriLife Extension

Stay ahead of the curve with the latest findings from the latest Texas plant trials. This session highlights top-performing new varieties, evaluates their landscape performance, and explores how trial data can inform design and installation decisions.

Key Takeaways:

1. Discover Proven Performers – Learn which new annuals, perennials, and woody plants are thriving in trial gardens under real-world conditions.

2. Design with Confidence – Use trial data to select plants with strong aesthetic appeal, climate adaptability, and low maintenance needs.

3. Bridge the Gap Between Trials and Clients – Translate trial results into informed recommendations that align with client goals and site conditions.

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ISA CEU available with Karl Flocke, Texas A&M Forest Service

This session provides guidance on assessing and restoring trees following events like hurricanes, ice storms, floods, or wildfires. Attendees will learn how to evaluate damage, prioritize safety, and implement recovery strategies to support long-term tree health.

Key Takeaways:

1. Start with a Safety Assessment – Identify and address immediate hazards such as hanging limbs, split trunks, or uprooted trees before beginning cleanup.

2. Don’t Rush to Remove – Many trees with moderate damage can recover with proper pruning, support, and time—evaluation by a professional is key.

3. Support Recovery, Not Just Cleanup – Post-disaster care includes watering, mulching, and monitoring for pests and disease, which are more likely to affect stressed trees.

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ISA And TNLA CEUs with Matt Campbell, ArborJet This session explores the vital connection between soil moisture chemistry and plant health. Participants will learn how water quality, salinity, and nutrient availability in the soil solution influence plant physiology, root development, and overall growth.

Key Takeaways:

1. Water Quality Impacts Nutrient Uptake – pH, salinity, and dissolved ions in irrigation water directly affect a plant’s ability to absorb essential nutrients.

2. Soil Chemistry Drives Root Behavior – Imbalances in soil moisture or chemical composition can alter root growth patterns and trigger stress responses.

3. Monitoring Matters – Regular testing of soil and water chemistry helps prevent issues like nutrient lockout, toxicity, or stunted plant development.

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ISA and TNLA CEUs with Emmett Muennink, ArborJet

This session provides a comprehensive look at the evolution of tree injection—from early methods to today’s advanced systems. Attendees will gain an understanding of how innovations in equipment and chemistry have improved tree care, pest management, and disease treatment over time.

Key Takeaways:

1. From Wounding to Precision – Tree injection has progressed from invasive techniques to refined systems that minimize damage while maximizing efficacy.

2. Chemical Advancements – Modern formulations are more targeted, effective, and environmentally responsible than earlier compounds.

3. A Valuable Tool in Integrated Care – Today’s tree injection methods play a key role in managing pests and diseases where spraying isn’t practical or desirable.

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Must attend full day to receive 7 hours of ISA CEUs. with Justin Krobot and Joe Zaniewski, Tree Mann Solutions, LLC Join us for a dive into design considerations to protect and preserve trees during various phases of land development and construction. -Construction Tree Protection Considerations -Tree Survey Considerations -Tree Ordinance Considerations Joe ZaniewskiRead less...

ISA and TNLA CEUs available with Dr. David Creech

As climate patterns shift, selecting and managing trees that can thrive in hotter, drier, and more variable conditions is essential. This session highlights tree species and cultivars with proven resilience, as well as planting and care strategies to support long-term success in changing environments.

Key Takeaways:

1. Select for Resilience – Discover tree species and cultivars with tolerance to drought, heat, pests, and urban stressors.

2. Match Tree to Site – Successful outcomes depend on aligning tree characteristics with soil type, water availability, and microclimates.

3. Plan for the Future – Incorporate diversity and adaptability into tree planning to build more resilient landscapes over the next several decades.

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Dr. Rafia Khan, Texas A&M University

This session equips professionals with the knowledge to correctly interpret pesticide labels and stay compliant with state and federal laws. Attendees will gain clarity on how to apply products safely and legally in both residential and commercial settings.

Key Takeaways:

1. Read Beyond the Basics – Understanding signal words, application rates, PPE requirements, and environmental precautions is critical for safe and effective use.

2. Know the Law – Stay up to date with local, state, and federal regulations to avoid fines, protect public health, and maintain your applicator license.

3. Documentation Matters – Accurate recordkeeping and proper storage and disposal practices help ensure compliance and professional accountability.

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ISA and TNLA CEU available With expert speaker: Tim Jackson, Davey Tree Care

This session focuses on the fundamentals of structural pruning to promote strong, healthy tree architecture. Attendees will learn how early pruning decisions impact tree stability, aesthetics, and longevity in both urban and landscape settings.

Key Takeaways:

1. Start Young for Lasting Impact – Early pruning helps establish a dominant leader and proper branch spacing, reducing future risk and maintenance costs.

2. Identify and Correct Structural Defects – Learn how to recognize codominant stems, included bark, and poor branch attachments that can lead to failure if not addressed.

3. Timing and Technique Matter – Understand when and how to make pruning cuts to guide growth without overstressing the tree.

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with experts  CHRIS PSENCIK AND MICHAEL BOSCO with McFarlin Stanford

This session explores how forming a strategic, advisory-style board of peers can provide business owners with the insight, accountability, and perspective needed to grow. Learn how to assemble and structure a board that drives innovation, sharpens leadership, and accelerates success.

Key Takeaways:

1. Choose the Right People – A diverse group of experienced, trusted industry professionals can offer guidance, challenge assumptions, and help you see blind spots.

2. Structure for Impact – Clear expectations, regular meetings, and defined goals help ensure your board stays focused and productive.

3. Grow with Accountability – A board acts as a sounding board and accountability partner, pushing you to make informed decisions and follow through on strategic goals.

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with expert CHRIS PSENCIK with McFarlin Stanford

This session focuses on how intentional recruiting, smart branding, and a values-driven approach can help you attract and retain top-tier talent. Learn how to go beyond filling positions to building a loyal, high-performing team that fuels long-term business growth.

Key Takeaways:

1. Hire for Culture and Capability – Identify candidates who not only meet skill requirements but also align with your company values and long-term vision.

2. Use Strategic Sourcing – Leverage employee referrals, digital platforms, and industry networks to consistently connect with top talent.

3. Retention Starts at Recruitment – Clear expectations, onboarding, and growth opportunities set the tone for a workplace where A-players thrive and stay.

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with expert Paul Winski, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension

This session offers practical guidance on the safe and effective use of biological pesticides in nursery and landscape operations. Participants will explore how these pest control tools differ from traditional chemicals and learn best practices for storage, application, and integration into IPM (Integrated Pest Management) programs.

Key Takeaways:

1. Proper Storage and Handling – Biological pesticides often have shorter shelf lives and specific storage requirements to maintain effectiveness, such as temperature control and avoiding direct sunlight.

2. Application Timing is Critical – Success depends on applying biologicals at the correct pest life stage and environmental conditions to maximize impact.

3. Integration with Other Controls – Biologicals work best as part of a broader IPM strategy, complementing cultural and mechanical controls while reducing resistance risks.

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with expert, Paul Winski, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension

This session highlights practical soil management strategies that help retain moisture, reduce irrigation needs, and improve plant health. Attendees will learn how to assess soil conditions and apply techniques that maximize water efficiency in landscapes and growing operations.

Key Takeaways:

1. Build Organic Matter – Incorporating compost and mulch improves soil structure, boosts water-holding capacity, and supports microbial activity.

2. Reduce Compaction – Aeration and avoiding heavy equipment help maintain pore space for better water infiltration and root growth.

3. Select the Right Amendments – Tailored use of soil conditioners and moisture-retentive materials can significantly reduce runoff and irrigation frequency.

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Education Session: Design and Maintenance of Pocket Prairies
Presented by John Hart Asher, Blackland Collective

This session explores how to design and maintain pocket prairies—small-scale native plant ecosystems that support biodiversity, beautify urban spaces, and promote ecological resilience. John Hart Asher of Blackland Collective will share practical insights on site selection, plant palettes, and long-term care strategies that work in Texas landscapes.

Key Takeaways:

1. Design with Ecology in Mind – Learn how to choose native species and design layouts that mimic natural prairie systems and provide year-round interest.

2. Establish for Success – Understand soil prep, seeding techniques, and watering strategies that set the foundation for healthy, thriving prairies.

3. Maintenance is Key – Discover how seasonal mowing, weeding, and adaptive management keep pocket prairies functional and beautiful over time.

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In "Water Plans and Sustainability," industry expert DJ Seeger of Seeger Water will guide attendees through the essential components of effective water planning and long-term sustainability practices. Drawing from real-world experience and forward-thinking strategies, DJ will explore how businesses and communities can develop water plans that balance conservation, compliance, and operational needs. This session will highlight innovative technologies, practical approaches to water management, and the critical role sustainability plays in the future of our industry. Key Takeaways: 1. Learn how to create and implement an effective water plan that meets both regulatory requirements and operational goals. 2. Discover sustainable water management practices and technologies that improve efficiency and conserve resources. 3. Understand the long-term benefits of integrating sustainability into water planning for business resilience and community impact. About the expert speaker: DJ Seeger, Seeger Water DJ grew up immersed in his family’s irrigation business. In 2017, he became President and rebranded the company to focus on water conservation, expanding its operations to include backflow testing and water pumps. Seeger Water is integrating ML/AI into their mainlines, meters, and irrigation systems to detect leaks when they happen. Today, Seeger Water leads in water management and irrigation, with the entire Seeger family actively involved in the business.Read less...

• 10 skills your crew leaders need to drive success Chris Psencik, and Michael Bosco, McFarlin Stanford

GOLD Tuesday Education Sponsor for the Landscape Education Room (Room 303C),

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• The daily skills your sales team needs to surpass your 2025 goals with expert, Chris Psencik, McFarlin Stanford

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• how humor and confidence can transform your leadership style with expert, Chris Psencik, McFarlin Stanford

GOLD Tuesday Education Sponsor for the Landscape Education Room (Room 303C),

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• Create a streamlined marketing engine by maximizing outsourced and in-house resources with expert Kevin Keim, McFarlin Stanford

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LMN

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Suzanne Wainwright-Evans, Buglady Consulting

TDA And TNLA CEUs available

Challenges of Managing Pests in Texas

Texas’ size and varied climates create unique pest management challenges, with long growing seasons allowing many insect pests to thrive. This session will cover some of the most common pests in the state, focusing on identification, biology, and effective control strategies. Attendees will learn practical scouting techniques for detecting hard-to-spot pests and explore a range of management options.    Both conventional chemical control recommendations and biological control strategies—including biopesticides and beneficial insects—will be discussed, highlighting advancements that have made beneficials a mainstream component of modern pest management programs.

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Holly McIIwain, Skilled Pro Academy

Course Title: Profitable Pricing & Customer Communication that Grow Your Irrigation Business

Running a successful irrigation business isn’t just about fixing sprinklers. It’s about pricing your services strategically and communicating effectively with customers to maximize profitability.This course is built for irrigation business owners and managers who are serious about breaking the undercharging habit and ready to future-proof their business with an intentional pricing strategy. You’ll learn how to price with confidence, communicate with customers like a pro, and position your company as the clear premium choice in your market.

No fluff - just proven strategies from Holly McIlwain, a trusted authority in the irrigation industry, to help you increase margins, gain more control, and build a sustainable business that grows in any economy.

You’ll walk away with a sharper pricing strategy, real-world tools that convert customer “Yikes!” into “Yes.”, and a mindset shift that makes your growth goals achievable. Whether you're writing up project orders or training your techs to hold the line, this masterclass gives you the language, structure, and clarity to make every job more profitable.

 

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with Paul Winski, Texas A&M University AgriLife Extension Service

This session focuses on efficient and effective water management practices tailored for ornamental plants in nursery and landscape settings. Participants will explore how proper irrigation strategies can enhance plant quality, reduce disease, and support sustainability.

Key Takeaways:

1. Water According to Plant Needs – Understanding species-specific requirements and growth stages helps prevent over- or under-watering.

2. Improve Efficiency with Technology – Tools like soil moisture sensors, drip systems, and smart controllers help conserve water and boost performance.

3. Prevent Water-Related Diseases – Managing timing, frequency, and drainage reduces the risk of root rot, mildew, and other moisture-related issues.

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with Preston Swor, Hunter Industries

This session explores emerging technologies and best practices in drip irrigation that enhance water efficiency, plant health, and system longevity. Attendees will gain insights into how modern drip systems are evolving to meet the challenges of water conservation and precision agriculture.

Key Takeaways:

1. Smarter Technology – Advances in sensors, automation, and remote monitoring are making drip systems more efficient and user-friendly.

2. System Design Matters – Proper layout, filtration, and pressure regulation are key to maximizing uniformity and minimizing maintenance issues.

3. Water Where It’s Needed – New emitter designs and zone-specific scheduling allow for more precise delivery, reducing waste and improving plant performance.

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with Holly McIIwain, Skilled Pro Academy

Proven secrets to create a more profitable irrigation business

This live course is designed for owners and managers of landscaping and irrigation companies who want to streamline operations, improve customer communication, and empower their staff with efficient processes. By implementing the strategies taught in this course, business leaders can create a standardized approach that enhances professionalism, minimizes confusion, and ensures customer service consistency—without requiring constant managerial oversight.

Class Title: Proven Secrets to Create a More Profitable Irrigation Service Business

Key Topics Covered:

1. Call Flow Process & Best Practices – How to structure initial customer interactions, set service expectations, and clearly define the technician’s role and the customer’s responsibilities.

2. Service Scheduling for Profitability – Strategies to optimize technicians’ schedules, reduce downtime, and maximize revenue.

3. Managing Customer Expectations & FAQs – Ensuring customers fully understand the service process, pricing, and next steps to minimize misunderstandings and callbacks.

4. Standardizing Communication with Templates – A comprehensive list of essential templates to standardize customer communication, including phone scripts, email scripts, voicemail scripts, and FAQs, to synchronize messaging between the office and the field.

5. Project Order & Documentation – Writing clear, standardized project orders to ensure efficiency and customer clarity.

By the end of this course, owners and managers will have the tools to structure and support their customer service representatives, call schedulers, and field technicians more effectively. With a standardized approach, staff will be able to handle common customer interactions and decisions independently, reducing the need for constant managerial oversight.
This interactive course provides the framework to improve operational efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and build a more profitable, professional service operation that drives referrals.

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Trey Wyatt with Leaf Landscape Supply

This session helps green industry professionals understand the unique needs, expectations, and buying behaviors of their key customer segments. Learn how to tailor your communication, service, and product offerings to better serve retail shoppers, wholesale buyers, and landscape contractors.

Key Takeaways:

1. Retail Customers Want Experience and Education – Focus on clear signage, knowledgeable staff, and engaging displays to support the DIY shopper.

2. Wholesale Buyers Value Efficiency – Prioritize streamlined ordering, consistent availability, and fast, accurate fulfillment for time-sensitive professionals.

3. Landscapers Need Solutions, Not Just Products – Offer reliable stock, job-specific recommendations, and flexible delivery or pickup options to support their workflow.

 

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with expert, Aan Coleman, Coleman and Associates Explore the dynamic progression of landscape design in this comprehensive educational session tailored for industry professionals. Delving into historical influences, modern trends, and future-forward practices, this opportunity offers a detailed look at how the field continues to adapt to changing environmental, social, and technological needs. Key takeaways include: Understanding the historical context that shapes current design principles Identifying emerging trends and sustainable practices in modern landscapes  Read less...

Laura Miller, Texas AgriLife Extension Texas Natives: Key Plants and Key Pests Native plants are often marketed as pest free options, but our native pests have been surviving on the for years. We will look at some popular Texas Native landscape plants and discuss the pests you are most likely to find on each one. We will also look at the Integrated Pest Management concept of the treatment threshold to help you decide if and when a pest requires management action.Read less...

with Expert David Rodriguez, Texas AgriLife Extension \

This session highlights ten exceptional plant selections that thrive in Texas’s challenging climate conditions while delivering beauty, durability, and long-term performance. Perfect for professionals focused on sustainability and low-maintenance design, this class will help you build landscapes that endure.

Key Takeaways:

1. Plant with Purpose – Learn about top-performing species that handle heat, drought, and variable soil with minimal inputs.

2. Design for Longevity – Discover how to incorporate resilient plants into landscape plans that remain vibrant year-round.

3. Maximize Client Satisfaction – Deliver tough, beautiful landscapes that reduce maintenance and increase value for your clients.

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with Dr. Rafia Khan, Texas A&M University

This session dives into the identification, biology, and management of two of the most persistent and damaging pests in trees and shrubs: borers and scale insects. Attendees will learn how to detect early infestations and implement effective, integrated control strategies.

Key Takeaways:

1. Know the Signs – Early detection of entry holes, frass, dieback, or sticky residue can prevent extensive damage and loss.

2. Timing is Critical – Effective control often depends on targeting vulnerable life stages with the right products at the right time.

3. Integrated Management Works Best – Combining cultural practices, biological controls, and selective insecticides leads to longer-term success with less environmental impact.

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