Thank you to our TNLA Key Contributing Investment Partner:
Education sessions are ongoing throughout the day, allowing attendees to join any session at their convenience. While certification is not required to participate in these sessions, those seeking continuing education hours must sign into each session using the QR code available at each location.
Title
Date & Time
Speaker
CEUs
Description
DEMO: Plant Performance from the 2024 Texas Superstar Trial
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 2:20 pm to 2:50 pm
Speaker: Paul Winski
TDA: .5
TNLA: 0.5
Propagation Station, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend. with expert, Paul Winkski, Texas AgriLife Extension Revi... Read more...
Propagation Station, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend.
with expert, Paul Winkski, Texas AgriLife Extension
Review the top performers from an in-ground and container trial that was planted on April 25, 2024 and evaluated through the summer until August 5, 2024. The trial consisted of 66 container entries and 44 in-ground varieties from Abbott-Ipco, Syngenta Flowers, PanAmerican Seed and Ball Flora Plant. Plants were evaluated every 2 weeks for flower production, plant uniformity, insect and disease presence and overall appearance.
Green Growth: Update on Applied Research for the Texas Green Industry
Join us for a comprehensive overview of the latest applied research initiatives driving innovation in the Texas green industry.
• Soil Health and Sustainability: Explore the potential of biochar as a sustainable soil amendment to enhance nursery production and improve plant health.
• Boxwood Production: Learn about the effectiveness of Rootshield Plus in optimizing boxwood production and mitigating common challenges.
• Biostimulants: Gain insights into the preliminary findings of MitoGrow, a promising biostimulant that could improve plant growth and development.Read less...
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm
Speaker: Kylie Diaz
TNLA: 0.5
Join Us for the Internship Meet & Greet at EXPO!... Read more...
Join Us for the Internship Meet & Greet at EXPO! Connect with the next generation of talent at the Internship Meet and Greet during the Nursery/Landscape EXPO. Texas Green Industry businesses are invited to engage with college students eager to explore internship opportunities and careers in horticulture, landscaping, nursery production, and beyond. This is your chance to showcase your company, share insights, and build connections with future professionals.
All students are welcome — come ready to inspire and be inspired!
Located at the Meet Up Garden sponsored by Hotchkiss Insurance Agency
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 12:15 pm to 12:55 pm
Speaker:
TNLA: 0.5
in the Retail Workspace, must be registered for EXPO's Education Pass or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend. Boost sales by providing clients with a bas... Read more...
in the Retail Workspace, must be registered for EXPO's Education Pass or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend.
Boost sales by providing clients with a basic, hand-drawn visual of their space. This simple, yet effective tool can be utilized by sales associates to illustrate recommendations and assist clients with understanding how to accomplish their landscape goals. In this session, attendees will learn how to integrate sketching into the sales process. Participants will understand how using this method increases buyer confidence and decisiveness, and why matching the client’s vision with yours often results in increased sales.
With expert, Ryan Watkins, HortMentorRead less...
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 1:40 pm to 2:50 pm
Speaker: Kylie Diaz
TNLA: 0.5
Connect with Future Industry Leaders at the Internship Poster Session!... Read more...
Connect with Future Industry Leaders at the Internship Poster Session! Texas Green Industry businesses are invited to attend the Internship Poster Session at the Nursery/Landscape EXPO — a unique opportunity to meet college students showcasing their hands-on experiences in nursery, landscape, and horticulture internships. Walk through student poster displays, hear their stories, and engage with emerging talent ready to grow in the industry.
All students are welcome — let’s build the future together!
located at the Meet Up Garden sponsored by Hotchkiss Insurance Agency
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 1:00 pm to 1:40 pm
Speaker: Ryan Watkins
TNLA: 0.5
Must registered for the education pass or tradeshow plus pass to attend. Learn concepts of landscape design in this introductory class tailored for... Read more...
Must registered for the education pass or tradeshow plus pass to attend.
Learn concepts of landscape design in this introductory class tailored for industry professionals. Dive into the 4Ts and DS4, two powerful methods that streamline plant selection while guaranteeing results your clients will rave about. Whether you're new to design or looking to sharpen your skills, this class offers practical strategies that will elevate your projects and boost your success.
Takeaways:
1. Avoid common design mistakes by using the DS4 questions (Deer, Sun, Size, Soil, Season).
2. Streamline & simplify the design process with the 4Ts (Tier, Texture, Time, Theme).
3. Use visual tools (Top Plant List, Quick Sketch Card) to shorten meetings with clients.
4. Become comfortable setting realistic budget expectations with clients.
5. Build trust with clients through humility, integrity, and education, not just selling designs.
with expert Ryan WatkinsRead less...
DEMO: Designing with Nature: Biophilic Principles for Outdoor Living Spaces
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 1:40 pm to 2:10 pm
Speaker: Joe Raboine
TNLA: 0.5
In this engaging session, Joe Raboine, Vice President of Design at Oldcastle APG, will explore how biophilic design can transform outdoor living envir... Read more...
In this engaging session, Joe Raboine, Vice President of Design at Oldcastle APG, will explore how biophilic design can transform outdoor living environments into spaces that support wellness, sustainability, and visual harmony. Drawing from nature-inspired design strategies, Joe will share practical ways to apply biophilic principles to patios, gardens, courtyards, and outdoor rooms—enhancing both residential and commercial projects.
Attendees will learn how to incorporate sensory-rich planting, natural materials, water features, and thoughtful spatial design to create outdoor areas that foster human connection with nature. Joe will also provide insights into how these trends are evolving within the Texas green industry, addressing regional challenges such as heat, drought, and native ecology. With real-world examples and forward-looking trends, this session is ideal for landscape architects seeking to elevate their projects through meaningful, nature-driven design.
About the Speaker: Joe Raboine is a nationally recognized leader in outdoor living design and innovation. As Vice President of Design at Oldcastle APG, he bridges technology, sustainability, and timeless design to help shape the future of outdoor spaces. Joe has spent his career collaborating with contractors, designers, and homeowners to bring biophilic and human-centered landscapes to life. His work emphasizes wellness, ecological responsibility, and the transformative power of outdoor environments. A frequent speaker at industry events, Joe is passionate about inspiring others to reimagine how we live outside.Read less...
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 1:40 pm to 2:10 pm
Speaker: Chris Ebbese
TNLA: 0.5
Education Session: DEMO – Biophilic Designs with Pavers... Read more...
Education Session: DEMO – Biophilic Designs with Pavers
with hardscape expert: Chris Ebbesen, Belgard/Oldcastle
This interactive demo explores how to incorporate biophilic design principles into hardscapes using pavers that enhance both human experience and environmental performance. Attendees will learn how thoughtful paver layouts and material choices can connect people to nature while supporting sustainable landscape goals.
Key Takeaways:
Design for Human-Nature Connection – Discover how textures, patterns, and materials in paver design can evoke natural elements and create calming, inviting spaces.
Support Sustainability – Learn how permeable pavers and green integration reduce runoff, improve water infiltration, and contribute to healthier urban ecosystems.
Balance Aesthetics and Function – See how biophilic design with pavers can elevate both the visual impact and functionality of public, commercial, and residential spaces.
Demo: Greener by Design: How LiveRoof Texas Transforms Urban Landscapes with Purpose
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 9:40 am to 10:10 am
Speaker: Chad McMahon
TNLA: 0.5
Education Session: DEMO – Greener by Design: How LiveRoof Texas... Read more...
Education Session: DEMO – Greener by Design: How LiveRoof Texas Transforms Urban Landscapes with Purpose
with expert: Chad McMahon, LiveRoof Texas
This live demo introduces landscape professionals to the benefits and practical applications of the LiveRoof Texas system—a modular green roof solution designed to integrate seamlessly into urban and commercial environments. Discover how living roofs contribute to sustainable design, improve performance, and add lasting value to your projects.
Key Takeaways:
Boost Environmental Performance – Living roofs help reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and lower the urban heat island effect.
Design with Function and Beauty – Learn how LiveRoof systems offer flexibility, aesthetic appeal, and compatibility with a range of architectural styles.
Understand Installation and Maintenance – Gain practical knowledge on the components, installation process, and long-term care to ensure project success.
Must be registered for EXPO Education or the Tradeshow Pluss Pass to attend.Read less...
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 11:00 am to 11:30 am
Speaker: John Beauford
TNLA: 0.5
Discover the set of “good” or “best” practices that are unpinned with a good systematic approach to management and some of the resultant possi... Read more...
Discover the set of “good” or “best” practices that are unpinned with a good systematic approach to management and some of the resultant possible business impacts.
with expert John Beauford, Advanced Grower Solutions LLC / Silver FernRead less...
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 10:20 am to 10:50 am
Speaker: John Beauford
TNLA: 0.5
gain knowledge on definitions and how a growers thinking should be shaped in terms of the asset of inventory. with expert John Beauford, Advanced G... Read more...
gain knowledge on definitions and how a growers thinking should be shaped in terms of the asset of inventory.
with expert John Beauford, Advanced Grower Solutions LLC / Silver Fern
Read less...
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 1:50 pm to 2:30 pm
Speaker: Ryan Watkins
TNLA: 0.5
must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend. The Genesis Sketch method introduces a fast, practical approach to landscap... Read more...
must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend.
The Genesis Sketch method introduces a fast, practical approach to landscape design, allowing professionals to communicate their ideas effectively to clients. This approach prioritizes efficiency, visual clarity, and practical decision-making in plant placement and layout design.
Key Objectives:
- Enhance communication with clients using quick visual aids.
- Simplify plant placement and bed design with a structured approach.
- Improve workflow efficiency and client decision-making.
- Encourage practical on-site plant selection to match availability.
- Provide a foundational framework for scaling up to more detailed designs.
With Expert Ryan Watkins, HortMentorRead less...
Session Summary: Join Can-Am Wireless for a hands-on demo showcasing cutting-edge telematics tools designed to improve efficiency, safety, and accountability in your landscape or irrigation business. Attendees will have the chance to try out a battery-powered asset tracker and dashcam, while viewing a live walk-through of the telematics portal in action.
Key Takeaways:
Real-Time Tracking & Monitoring – Learn how asset trackers and dashcams can reduce loss, improve response time, and optimize daily operations.
Live System Demo – Get a first-hand look at the portal interface and how to monitor crews, vehicles, and equipment from anywhere.
Boost Accountability & Safety – Discover how telematics can enhance driver behavior, reduce risk, and streamline communication with your teams.
Located in the TGI Product Safety Group Education Demo Area: Landscape/Irrigation Lab
Must be registered for the EXPO Education Pass or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend.Read less...
DEMO: Maximizing Plant Growth with Smart Pots: Benefits & Best Practices (Part 1)
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 11:00 am to 11:30 am
Speaker: Kurt Reiger
TNLA: 0.5
RETAIL WORKSPACE, MUST BE REGISTERED FOR EDUCATION OR TRADESHOW PLUS PASS TO ATTEND. with speaker Kurt Reiger, High Caliper Growing - Smart Pots... Read more...
RETAIL WORKSPACE, MUST BE REGISTERED FOR EDUCATION OR TRADESHOW PLUS PASS TO ATTEND.
with speaker Kurt Reiger, High Caliper Growing - Smart Pots
This session introduces the advantages of using Smart Pots and other fabric containers to enhance plant health and root development. Learn how to incorporate these innovative containers into your growing system to improve yields, reduce transplant shock, and boost overall plant performance.
Key Takeaways:
Promotes Superior Root Structure – Fabric pots naturally air-prune roots, preventing circling and encouraging dense, fibrous root systems.
Improves Drainage and Aeration – Increased airflow through the container walls reduces the risk of overwatering and supports healthier soil biology.
Versatile for Many Applications – Smart Pots are ideal for nursery production, retail sales, and even in-ground growing—offering flexibility and performance across environments.
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm
Speaker: Dr. Andrew King
TNLA: 0.5
PROPAGATION STATION, MUST BE REGISTERED FOR EDUCATION OR TRADESHOW PLUS PASS TO ATTEND. WITH EXPERT DR. ANDREW KING, TEXAS AGRILIFE EXTENSION RESEA... Read more...
PROPAGATION STATION, MUST BE REGISTERED FOR EDUCATION OR TRADESHOW PLUS PASS TO ATTEND.
WITH EXPERT DR. ANDREW KING, TEXAS AGRILIFE EXTENSION RESEARCH AND EDUCATIONRead less...
DEMO: The Future of Distribution: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Growth
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 9:40 am to 10:10 am
Speaker: Gary Cortes
TNLA: .5
Propagation Station must be registered for the Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend. with expert, Gary Cortes, Flow Vision... Read more...
Propagation Station must be registered for the Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend.
with expert, Gary Cortes, Flow Vision
This forward-looking demo explores how emerging technologies are transforming the way plants and products move through the supply chain. Retail garden center managers and growers will learn how to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction through smarter distribution strategies.
Key Takeaways:
Embrace Automation and Inventory Tools – Learn how digital systems can improve inventory accuracy, track orders, and reduce manual errors.
Improve Logistics and Delivery – Discover tools that optimize routing, track shipments in real-time, and enhance communication with retail partners or customers.
Scale Smart with Data – Use analytics to forecast demand, adjust supply levels, and make informed decisions that support business growth.
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 9:40 am to 10:10 am
Speaker: Tyler Wright
TNLA: 0.5
RETAIL WORKSPACE, MUST BE REGISTERED FOR THE EDUCATION OR TRADESHOW PLUS PASS TO ATTEND Tyler Wright, Austin Wood Recycling... Read more...
RETAIL WORKSPACE, MUST BE REGISTERED FOR THE EDUCATION OR TRADESHOW PLUS PASS TO ATTEND
Tyler Wright, Austin Wood Recycling
This hands-on session teaches the fundamentals of creating custom soil mixes and executing proper repotting techniques to support plant health and longevity. Participants will learn how to match soil structure and drainage to plant needs while minimizing transplant stress.
Key Takeaways:
Choose the Right Mix for the Right Plant – Understanding the role of soil components like peat, perlite, bark, and sand is key to creating a mix that supports proper aeration and moisture retention.
Know When and How to Repot – Timing, root pruning, and container selection all play a role in successful repotting without shocking the plant.
Avoid Common Mistakes – Over-potting, poor drainage, and compacted soils can lead to root rot and stunted growth—learn how to prevent them.
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 11:40 am to 12:10 pm
Speaker: Trevor Johnson
TNLA: 0.5
Retail Workspace, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend. with expert, Trevor Johnson, Alldredge Gardens In this hand... Read more...
Retail Workspace, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend.
with expert, Trevor Johnson, Alldredge Gardens
In this hands-on demo, discover how using Smart Pots can elevate the retail appeal and health of popular plants like geraniums. Learn growing techniques that improve plant quality and presentation, helping boost customer satisfaction and drive sales.
Key Takeaways:
Visual Appeal Drives Sales – Smart Pots enhance root health and bloom production, leading to fuller, more vibrant retail-ready geraniums.
Retail-Ready and Ready to Thrive – Healthier plants with well-developed roots experience less transplant shock, making them more attractive to consumers.
Use as a Sales Tool – Educate customers on the benefits of Smart Pots to add value and differentiate your offerings on the sales floor.
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm
Speaker: Dr. Andrew King
TNLA: 0,5
DEMO: Retail Workspace, Must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend. with expert Dr. Andrew King, Texas A&M AgriLife Extens... Read more...
DEMO: Retail Workspace, Must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend.
with expert Dr. Andrew King, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Research and Extension
This demo introduces retail garden centers to the newest ornamental plant varieties hitting the market. Attendees will get hands-on insights into trending colors, forms, and features that are capturing consumer interest and driving retail sales.
Key Takeaways:
Explore Fresh, Market-Ready Varieties – Discover ornamental introductions that offer improved performance, unique aesthetics, and strong shelf appeal.
Capitalize on Consumer Trends – Stay ahead by aligning your plant offerings with what today’s customers are searching for, from pollinator-friendly to low-maintenance choices.
Enhance Visual Merchandising – Learn how to showcase new ornamentals in displays that educate and inspire shoppers to buy.
DEMO: Strategic Point of Purchase Displays: Seasonal Planning Success
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 1:40 pm to 2:10 pm
Speaker: Chris Scott
TNLA: 0.5
DEMO: Retail Workspace, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend with Expert, Chris Scott, Altman Plants... Read more...
DEMO: Retail Workspace, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend
with Expert, Chris Scott, Altman Plants
This hands-on demo guides retail garden center managers through the art and strategy of designing point of purchase (POP) displays that drive engagement and boost seasonal sales. Learn how to create timely, eye-catching displays that inspire purchases and enhance the customer experience.
Key Takeaways:
Plan with the Seasons in Mind – Align displays with planting cycles, holidays, and local trends to stay relevant and capture impulse buys.
Tell a Story with Your Display – Use signage, color, and product grouping to educate, inspire, and make shopping easy for your customers.
Measure What Works – Track performance and adjust displays based on customer behavior, inventory movement, and seasonal demand.
DEMO: Next-Gen Irrigation: Harnessing Technology for a Better Landscape (4-Hour Demo) TCEQ CEUs
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm
Speaker: Ramzi White
TCEQ: 4
TNLA: 4
Next-Gen Irrigation: Harnessing Technology for a Better Landscape, located in the TGI Product Knowledge Area's Landscape and... Read more...
Next-Gen Irrigation: Harnessing Technology for a Better Landscape, located in the TGI Product Knowledge Area's Landscape and Irrigation Lab, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend and receive 4 hours of TCEQ CEUs. Presenter, Ramzi White, SiteOne Landscape Supply
Objectives for the class:
Introduction to Smart Irrigation Systems • Overview of Traditional vs. Modern Irrigation: Discuss the evolution from manual and stand-a-loan irrigation controllers to modern, tech-driven solutions. • Benefits of Smart Irrigation: How technology helps improve water efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance landscape health.
Types of Advanced Irrigation Technologies • Sprinkler Systems with Smart Controllers: Automatic adjustments based on weather conditions, soil moisture, and landscape needs. • Soil Moisture Sensors: How these sensors measure and control the water levels, optimizing irrigation schedules. • Climate-Based Irrigation Systems: Integration of local weather data to adjust watering based on temperature, humidity, and rainfall.
Water Management and Conservation • Water Efficiency: The role of technology in maximizing the use of water resources, reducing runoff and evaporation. • Sustainability and Resource Preservation: How smart irrigation technologies help conserve water and support sustainable landscaping practices. • Water Stress Indicators: Identifying when a landscape needs water without over-watering or under-watering, using tech solutions.
Integration with IoT (Internet of Things) • Connecting Systems for Full Automation: How IoT enables remote monitoring and control of irrigation systems from smartphones or computers. • Data Analytics for Better Decision-Making: Using collected data from sensors and controllers to track performance, forecast needs, and make adjustments.
Cost-Effectiveness and ROI • Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings: Discuss the upfront cost of implementing tech-driven irrigation systems and how they pay off over time with water savings and better plant growth. • Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Tips for maintaining and optimizing high-tech systems, including common problems and solutions.
Hands-On Demonstration • System Setup: Walkthrough of installing and configuring a smart irrigation system (drip, sprinkler, or sensors). • Real-Time Data Collection: Demonstrate how data is collected and used for watering decisions. • Adjustments Based on Conditions: Participants can practice adjusting systems based on weather forecasts, soil moisture, and landscape requirements.
Emerging Trends in Irrigation Technology • AI and Machine Learning: How AI can predict water needs and automate the system's learning process. • Drones for Irrigation Monitoring: Using aerial technology to map irrigation needs and assess large landscapes.
Practical Applications for Different Landscapes • Residential vs. Commercial Landscapes: Discuss the specific needs of different environments and how technology is tailored to each. • Urban Landscapes and Green Spaces: Strategies for implementing smart irrigation in parks, urban gardens, and public spaces.
Thank you to TGI Safety Group for Sponsoring the Demo
Date: Wednesday, August 6 Time: 11:40 am to 12:40 pm
Speaker: Suzanne Wainwright-Evans
TNLA: 0.5
Propagation Station, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend.... Read more...
Propagation Station, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to attend.
with Suzanne Wainwright-Evans, Buglady Consulting
Want to explore the latest pest management tools? In this hands-on demonstration, you'll learn a fast and easy method for scouting pests. Discover how to use digital microscopes for accurate identification of both pests and beneficial insects. Attendees will also get an up-close look at the newest biological control agents and their release techniques. Have pest questions? Bring them to The Buglady for expert answers