Demo Schedule

with speaker John Dalton, & Tommy Cole McFarlin Stanford We all want to be able to get more done in less time. AI may be the secret to making that happen. In this session, we will share how you can use AI like ChatGPT, Prompt Engineering, and more to save time on some of the basic tasks landscaping companies have on their to-do lists. TOMMY COLE - Vice President Tommy has over 20 years of green industry experience with a diverse background in Landscape Design & Installation, Civil Construction, Interior Plant Care and Outdoor Services. His discipline is in developing and implementing simple, clean processes that are proven to deliver bottom line results. Through his coaching, he personally demonstrates the importance of consistent team and client communication in day-to-day operations.  Through his actions, he fosters a healthy company culture and leverages its influence in driving a team’s success.  Tommy has a broad breadth of leadership experience with proven successes, and as a result, he provides our clients with tactical daily habits that move their teams to the next level.  The teams he coaches can deliver operational excellence, handle significant growth and create an exceptional client experience. JOHN DALTON - Chief Marketing Officer John Dalton is a seasoned marketing professional and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience. After earning his MBA from the SMU Cox School of Business, John worked at FedEx Services in international marketing, where he oversaw the rebranding of all FedEx Kinko’s locations outside the U.S. He then joined Brinker International, where he worked with franchisees to manage multi-million-dollar brands like Chili's, On the Border, and Macaroni Grill in Asia and the Middle East, launching regional campaigns and multiple international locations. John transitioned to entrepreneurship as the CMO of a wholesale jewelry startup and then opened the online retailer, inkWELL Press Productivity Co, achieving seven-figure revenue in less than 18 months. Today, he serves as the CMO of McFarlin Stanford, implementing successful SEO and content strategies, streamlining our overall brand strategy, and leading the expansion of the ACE Peer Groups. John's decades of marketing expertise have led to significant growth and success in every organization he has worked with.  Read less...

DEMO: FREE: Special Events Area Newly refaced, Online Orders for your business is guaranteed to boost sales! Whether you're B2B or B2C, we've got you covered. Our latest version of Online Orders now allows you to create custom ordering templates based on your specific type of business, for example the ability to place multiple orders at once. Your new online storefront also automatically links to your customer's portals for ease and efficiency. with Aaron AllisonRead less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Propagation Station Get updates on the latest trends and regulations in biostimulant labeling. Led by experts, participants will gain essential insights to navigate changes and make informed decisions in this evolving landscape. Join us to stay ahead in biostimulant labeling practices. Mark Freeman, BioWorks  Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Retail Workspace Roses make the perfect landscape plant! Join us to learn all about their versatility and how to integrate one of the most well known historic flowers in the world into projects of all kinds. Discussions will include characteristics of different roses, choosing the proper rose for a variety of situations, setting roses up for long-term success, and much more! Executive Summary: Roses have long been celebrated for their beauty, fragrance, and timeless appeal in gardens and landscapes all around the world. Roses are also treasured for their versatility, as they can fill any space and fit any style. We will cover some of the historic uses of roses and the value that they offer. We will be discussing the different types of roses that are well-suited for a variety of landscaping projects, taking into consideration color, fragrance, and growth habit to achieve the desired aesthetic in the design. We will also be discussing different ways to incorporate roses into the landscape, including creating a focal point, borders, adding vertical interest, and more. Rose care is an important additional part to roses in the landscape. Old Garden Style Roses are great for the landscape as they are typically hardier, more disease resistant, can bloom throughout many seasons, and overall require less hands on maintenance. We will be discussing the general care for roses, including mulching, pruning, disease and pest control, and more. We will be showing an example of a project from start to finish using roses and other wonderful companion plants in a residential setting. There are countless ways to integrate roses into residential and commercial landscape designs, the possibilities are endless. Takeaways: * Attendees will learn about many different ways to use roses in a variety of landscapes * Attendees will learn about how to choose roses for a variety of situations, learning about color, fragrance, and different growth habits. * Attendees will learn about how to plant for success, setting up roses for prospering in the long term. * Attendees will learn all about general care for roses. Speaker Marie Jenkins, Antique Rose Emporium  Read less...

DEMO: FREE: Special Events Area See how this product connects to cell signal and RTK networks an indoor demonstration will need to be tested prior to the show for effectiveness. Speaker: Dax Slate, URSROBOT, IncRead less...

DEMO: Free: Special Events Get an overview of the capabilities and benefits of this electric excavator and Volvo electric equipment. Speaker: Derrick Edmonds, ROMCO Equipment CoRead less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Propagation Station Dive into the results of the trial, which include observations on plant growth, vigor, flowering, disease resistance, and overall health. Through detailed analysis and data presentation, participants will gain practical knowledge about the performance of different plant varieties in container settings, as well as factors influencing their success, such as soil types, watering regimes, and environmental conditions. This session aims to provide valuable guidance to horticultural professionals, nursery growers, and gardening enthusiasts, enabling them to make informed decisions when selecting and cultivating plants in containers for optimal results in their projects or landscapes. Paul Winski is with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and is a horticulturist with a broad base of experience in the greenhouse and nursery industry. He has been successful because of his expertise in new product development, integrated pest management, and product knowledge. What’s unique about his approach is making the effort to fully comprehend the big picture for both the grower and the consumer. He enjoys listening to the grower’s needs, understanding the consumer’s wants and developing a plan for both to be successful.Read less...

$DEMO: Located in the Retail Workspace sponsored by Billy Long Enterprises, LLC. More and more homeowners are looking to make a difference from their own yards by creating landscapes that not only look good, but DO good by supporting insects and wildlife, saving water, and reducing pesticides and herbicides. Our Texas native plants are the perfect solution, and the Native Plant Society of Texas wants to show you how! In this presentation, we will: 1)     Share examples of beautiful Texas landscapes that incorporate native plants. 2)     Demonstrate our favorite plants for attracting butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds to your client's yards. 3)     Provide native alternatives to common landscape plants.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Retail Workspace Presented by Jane Beggs-Joles, Spring Meadows/Proven Winners Discover the vibrant world of container gardening with our engaging session, "Stunning Container Plants that Can Take the Heat." Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a green-thumbed novice, you'll learn how to transform your outdoor spaces with resilient, heat-tolerant plants that thrive in high temperatures. Join us to explore the best plant varieties, innovative container designs, and expert tips for maintaining lush, beautiful greenery all summer long.Read less...

DEMO: FREE: Meet Up Garden This is a 2 HR CEU approved course that we provide to LI's in San Antonio SAWS Conservation enforces the conservation ordinance regulation for irrigation and drought rules. The role of landscape/irrigation professionals is critical to the compliance of our commercial and residential customers, especially during peak demand of summer months. 1. Education on conservation ordinance 2. Regulations and the proven effectiveness and need for compliance With speaker, Chad Cosper, San Antonio Water System-ConservationRead less...

DEMO: FREE: Special Events Area SePRO is introducing a new pre-emergent herbicide, called StriCore, to the turf and ornamental market. This presentation will introduce the audience to the benefits and uses of this herbicides. This presentation will also discuss SePRO’s solutions for thrips (such as the invasive pepper thrips) and scale insects (such as the crape myrtle bark scale). With speaker: JC Chong, SePRORead less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend with Rayne Gibson, Taproots Horticulture Consulting, LLC Rayne is best known in the nursery community as a green industry advocate. Rayne has extensive experience in managing wholesale nurseries, production nurseries, and landscape firms. He holds a Bachelor of Science in horticulture from Louisiana State University as well as multiple certifications in business and horticulture practices. As a trusted advisor he has also served as a board member of both the Louisiana and Texas Nursery Landscape Associations. Rayne works with businesses across the country using his experiences to help them get to the next level through tried and true development and strategy planning.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Propagation Station Explore the unique properties of biochar, including its ability to improve soil structure, water retention, nutrient availability, and microbial activity. Through a combination of research findings and practical insights, participants will learn about the efficacy of biochar in mitigating nutrient leaching, reducing fertilizer requirements, and promoting root growth and overall plant vigor in containerized nursery production. This session aims to equip nursery growers, horticulturists, and industry professionals with the knowledge and techniques needed to effectively integrate biochar into their soil management practices, fostering sustainable and resilient plant production systems..Read less...

DEMO: Free: Special Events Theater Gain a comprehensive understanding of how a rotary lawn mower blade cuts, and its complete service process. You can see an example of the seminar here: https://www.magna-matic-direct.com/blog/lawn-mower-blades-101/. Gerd Bauer II is the Vice President at MagnaMatic Corporation out of Waldo WisconsinRead less...

DEMO: Free: Special Events Theater Discover how robotics and AI are transforming transportation in the nursery and landscape industry, highlighting benefits such as increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved safety. Attendees will learn about the capabilities of these technologies, including autonomous navigation and route optimization, through real-world case studies. The session explores future trends and opportunities for innovation in nursery and landscape transportation, providing a concise overview for professionals seeking insights into the potential of robotics and AI in optimizing transportation processes. Nathan Heath has had extensive experience in various roles within the sales, business operations, and agricultural industries. Nathan has held leadership positions in companies such as Burro, Soli Organic, Iron Ox, Cultivate, Phoenix Farms, and Hub City Commerce, showcasing their skills in strategic planning, customer development, and financial management.Read less...

DEMO: Free: Special Events Theater Gain valuable insights and tools to support entrepreneurs in navigating legal challenges and protecting their businesses. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on legal strategies, risk management, and access to affordable legal services tailored to small businesses. Through this demonstration, small business owners will learn how Legal Shield can empower them to address legal issues effectively, mitigate risks, and safeguard their businesses, providing a valuable resource for entrepreneurial success and growth. George Ellison is with Legal Shield, providing a portfolio of legal and identity theft services. We help small business owners to affordably protect & grow their business and also offer a voluntary employee benefit.Read less...

DEMO: Free: Special Events Theater This presentation offers crucial insights into potential shifts in policies affecting temporary foreign workers. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the proposed regulatory changes, their implications for employers and workers, and the broader impact on the labor market. Through detailed analysis and discussion, this session aims to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of immigration regulations and compliance requirements, ensuring informed decision-making and effective workforce management strategies. Douglas Conley serves as the Chief Compliance Officer at Action Visa since December 2015, providing vital client and compliance support, along with audit services. With a B.S. in Business Management from the University of Tampa and an honorable discharge from the USAF, where he specialized in Law Enforcement and Investigations, Douglas brings a wealth of expertise. He holds certifications as an Assistant Service Manager for Toyota and a Toyota factory-certified trainer for Trainers and operators of Powered Industrial Trucks (PIT). Douglas has contributed significantly to developing OSHA-compliant PIT training programs for leading companies like Tropicana, Coca-Cola, Pepsi-Cola, and Rooms to Go. He has also shared his insights as a guest speaker at prestigious events such as the Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference, the Safety and Health Conference in Orlando, and engagements with various industry associations.Read less...

DEMO: FREE: Meet Up Garden Featuring Panelists: Douglas Smith, Ph.D., PAS, Stephen F. Austin State University, Amit Dhingra, Ph.D., Texas A&M University & Lance Keith, Ph.D., West Texas A&M University Engage with university department leaders to discuss innovative approaches, emerging trends, and collaborative opportunities shaping the future of the field. Through interactive discussions and shared insights, participants will gain valuable perspectives on addressing challenges, fostering interdisciplinary partnerships, and advancing horticultural practices for sustainable and resilient landscapes. This presentation aims to empower educators, researchers, and industry professionals to navigate the dynamic landscape of horticulture, driving innovation and excellence in the field.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Learn about the programs and initiatives offered by the National Center for Farmworker Health (NCFH) to support agricultural businesses employing H-2A workers. Through practical guidance and case studies, participants will discover strategies for navigating grant applications, leveraging financial assistance, and enhancing workforce health and safety. This presentation aims to empower H-2A growers with the knowledge and tools necessary to access funding opportunities and optimize their operations while prioritizing the well-being of farmworkers.Read less...

DEMO: FREE: Meet Up Garden The education demonstration on "Leveraging the Texas Migrant Education Program (TMEP) to Support H-2A Growers" provides valuable insights into utilizing TMEP resources to benefit H-2A growers and their workforce. Attendees will learn about the services and support offered by TMEP, including educational assistance, health services, and social support programs tailored to migrant and seasonal farmworkers. Through practical examples and case studies, participants will discover strategies for collaborating with TMEP to address the unique needs of H-2A workers and enhance their well-being and productivity. This presentation aims to empower H-2A growers with the knowledge and resources necessary to access TMEP support and foster a supportive and thriving agricultural workforce.Read less...

DEMO: Free: Meet Up Garden Gain a comprehensive overview of recent developments and updates in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs. Attendees will gain valuable insights into regulatory changes, policy updates, and best practices for navigating the complexities of these programs. Through expert analysis and practical examples, participants will learn how to stay compliant with current regulations, address challenges, and optimize their utilization of H-2A and H-2B visas for their workforce needs. This presentation aims to empower employers, workers, and industry stakeholders with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of temporary worker programs effectively.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Must attend the full time to recieve 4 hours of TCEQ CEUs Landscape & Irrigation Lab This four-hour education training will provide participants with in-depth knowledge and practical skills to effectively design, install, and troubleshoot these systems. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on exercises, attendees will gain an understanding of the principles behind two-wire technology, including its advantages, limitations, and applications in various industries. The training covers topics such as system components, wiring techniques, programming methods, and maintenance procedures, equipping participants with the expertise to implement and maintain reliable two-wire systems. Additionally, the session addresses common challenges and troubleshooting strategies, empowering attendees to identify and resolve issues efficiently. By the end of the training, participants will have the confidence and proficiency to harness the full potential of two-wire technology in their projects. Ramzi White is a Senior Branch Manager for SiteOne Landscape Supply, in the Lubbock and Amarillo market. He started with SiteOne in February 2016 and has been in the industry since 2003. He has a Master of Science in Horticulture from Texas Tech University with a specific field of study in Turfgrass, as well as, being a licensed irrigator in Texas. As a SiteOne Irrigation instructor, Ramzi enjoys giving back to the team and paying forward the development he received along the way. He also strives to learn something new daily as he works with the team to better serve their customers. Prior to being in the Landscape industry he served in the Air Force as a TACP.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Landscape & Irrigation Lab Are your clients asking for more Texas native plants in their landscapes that support wildlife, save water, and are easy to maintain? The Native Plant Society of Texas is here to help! In this class you will learn: 1) the benefits of incorporating native plants into landscapes, 2) how our Texas ecoregions play an important role in choosing plants that will thrive in your area, and 3) helpful tips for creating and maintaining a beautiful Texas native landscape throughout the year. With speaker Lee Marlowe, Native Plant Society of TexasRead less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Landscape & Irrigation Lab Zero turn mower safety and operations: - Pillars of Safety - Personal - Environmental - Operational Jason Shoffner has a distinguished career spanning over twenty-five years in the lawn and landscape industry, Jason brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the forefront. Currently serving as the Business Development Manager for Gravely Commercial Equipment in the Southwest and Western United States, Jason is deeply passionate about enhancing efficiency and productivity in the field. Beyond his professional endeavors, Jason finds joy in activities such as tennis, outdoor adventures, and cherishing moments with his loved ones. Join me in extending a warm welcome to Jason Shoffner as he shares his invaluable insights and experiences with us today.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Mowers that mow on their own aren’t a thing of science fiction. In fact, many are already deployed with landscape crews across the country now. Rapidly developing and becoming more common, autonomous mowing provides attractive benefits – like increased productivity and safer, more comfortable work environments for crews – and insightful field-level operational data. Come see where robotic mowing is today and uncover the potential it hold to transform maintenance operations tomorrow. Takeaways:

• Learn about the range of robotic solutions available now
• Identify which robots will best fit your maintenance operations today and tomorrow
• Hear best practices for rolling out robots with your crews
• Get tips on introducing clients and the public to the robotic mowing
• See a sneak peek of where this technology will go over the next 5 years

Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Landscape & Irrigation Lab How to Estimate Soil Texture & Moisture by Feel Join us for a hands-on workshop where you'll learn to estimate soil texture and moisture just by feel. Guided by experts, you'll explore the tactile world of soil, gaining skills vital for agriculture, gardening, and environmental science. Don't miss this chance to connect with the earth beneath your feet! Dr. Lacey Mount is a dedicated plant scientist with a diverse background in botany and plant medicine. Her journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Botany from the University of Florida in 2002, followed by a keen interest in applied life sciences that led her to pursue graduate studies in the Plant Medicine Program at UF. Driven by the vision of interdisciplinary plant health practitioners akin to medical doctors, she delved into entomology, plant pathology, agronomy, and more, honing her skills to address real-world challenges. Dr. Mount's expertise extends to forest pathology, where her diagnostic and molecular skills have contributed to the discovery and characterization of new diseases. Her passion for multidisciplinary approaches to promote crop productivity and conserve natural resources led her to diverse research and professional experiences, including nutrient management, soil quality, and water quality assessments for various crops. In 2020, she founded Plant Diagnostic Services, based in Austin, Texas, to continue her commitment to advancing plant health and sustainable agriculture practices.Read less...

ISA and TNLA CEUs available During this session you will discover:

• A broader view of trees and the history behind many of them noted in the presentation. Behind every great plant there is a story.
• A chance to broaden your current selection of trees used.
• A smaller part of the presentation will be devoted to shrubs to capture the imagination.
• The opportunity to network and spent time with likeminded people.

Speaker, Nicholas Staddon, Everde Growers Nicholas Staddon has been working with plant breeders, hybridizers, and professional plant explorers for 25 years, scouring the globe for new creations and discoveries in the plant world. Born in England, Staddon received credentials in Agricultural Science from Otley Agricultural College. When he first arrived in the United States, he managed garden centers in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico “…where the vistas will move your heart and the gardening will break it,” he says.  Staddon went on to work for Monrovia Nursery for 27 years, 15 of which as the leader of the New Plant program. Staddon resides in California and is working with Everde Growers as their Spokesperson and Plantsman supporting their marketing and new plant introduction programs. He is a sought-after speaker and guest for gardening television and radio shows across the United States. He works closely with professional garden writers, providing information on plants and sharing his views on garden trends and more. Nicholas is proud to be professionally affiliated with the Royal Horticultural Society, California Plant Alliance, and AmericanHort. He is on the Board of Advisors for the Mediterranean Garden Society of Southern California, Climate Ready Landscape Plants, a USDA SCMP Project, and Cal-HIP (California Horticultural Invasives Prevention), which is a voluntary partnership to help gardeners and the horticultural industry to proactively address the problem of invasive plants in the trade. He is also a Regional Director of GardenComm. A community of Garden Writers and Communicators working across the United States providing gardening information and related services.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Retail Workspace Lavender is a drought tolerant plant that attracts both pollinators and attention, but getting the right lavender plant in the right place in Texas can be challenging. Texas A&M Agrilife Extension agents trialed thirteen different cultivars in several locations around the state in 2022 and 2023. We have thoughts, photos, and data to share. Attendees will learn: Lavenders that Lived and where they did it. Best lavenders for flower production and what to do with lavender flowers. Best lavenders for foliage quality and how to use them in the landscape. Laura M. Miller is the Texas A&M AgriLife Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent for Tarrant County. Through the application of science-based knowledge, she provides continuing education and problem-solving services to anyone who is trying to make some money in horticulture from green industry professionals to fruit, vegetable, and ornamental plant growers. Prior to taking on her present position in March 2008, she was a University of Florida/IFAS Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent for seven years. A sixth generation Texan, she is a graduate of Eagle Pass High School who earned a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture and a Master of Education in Agricultural Education from Texas A&M University in College Station. She is an ISA Certified Arborist, Texas Certified Nursery Professional and serves on the boards of Region V of the Texas Nursery and Landscape Association, the Cross Timbers Urban Forestry Council, and the International Plant Propagators’ Society-Southern Region of North America as a delegate to the International Board. Elizabeth McMahon is a CEA At Texas A&M AgriLife ExtensionRead less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Retail Workspace Explore the benefits of incorporating native plants into landscape designs, including enhanced biodiversity, reduced water usage, and improved resilience to local environmental conditions. Through practical examples and case studies, participants will learn about native plant alternatives for popular landscape plants, tailored to their specific region or ecosystem. The session aims to empower landscape professionals, gardeners, and homeowners with the knowledge and resources necessary to create sustainable and ecologically-friendly landscapes using native plants. George Cates serves as the Restoration Specialist at Native American Seed, based in Junction, Texas. With a BA in Environmental Studies from Austin College, George brings extensive expertise to his role, having led numerous prairie restorations and managed seed production operations across various regions in Texas. Weston Neiman is the Inventory/Human Resources Supervisor at Native American Seed. He pursued his education at New Mexico State University, where he also played football, and earned a master's degree from Texas Tech University. Weston is dedicated to supporting the mission of Native American Seed, working tirelessly to contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Propagation Station Arthropod pests are the biggest concern in growing ornamental, greenhouse, nursery, and turfgrass. Most economic arthropod pests are small in size, and cryptic with high reproductive capability. Much injury is often done by the insects if they are unchecked or misidentified. Correct identification is the foundation for developing any pest management program. Often insects can be unrecognized until they cause some injury to their hosts. Injury patterns on hosts, residues of the insects (frass), feeding patterns, etc. can be good indications to narrow down the identification of the pests. Knowledge about the biology of the pests, their life stages, life cycle, most damaging stages, susceptible hosts, the most active period of the year, etc. can help to be alert for the upcoming pests. Moreover, information on their biological parameters can help to develop the best management plan for the current and future cropping system. Takeaway points: Arthropod pests need to be identified correctly. Host or plant injury patterns serve as an indication for specific/groups of pests. Planned monitoring can allow us to take action against pests for a successful management program. Rafia Khan is the Assistant Professor Extension Entomologist for Texas A&M University Entomology.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Propagation Station Gain an understanding of how Rootshield works to suppress soilborne pathogens, promote root health, and enhance plant vigor. Through practical examples and case studies, participants will learn about the efficacy of Rootshield in preventing diseases such as root rot and damping-off during propagation, as well as its role in improving root development and overall plant performance in boxwood production. This session aims to empower nursery growers, horticulturists, and plant producers with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively integrate Rootshield into their propagation and production practices, promoting healthier and more resilient boxwood plants. Paul Winski is with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and is a horticulturist with a broad base of experience in the greenhouse and nursery industry. He has been successful because of his expertise in new product development, integrated pest management, and product knowledge. What’s unique about his approach is making the effort to fully comprehend the big picture for both the grower and the consumer. He enjoys listening to the grower’s needs, understanding the consumer’s wants and developing a plan for both to be successful.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Propagation Station Ornamental crop production is one of the growing industries in Texas. Crops are growing in greenhouses and open pad areas. Insect pests and diseases often cause economic loss to commercial producers. Among those insect pests, some are already established and cause damage every year or season. Invasive pests impose a greater concern with less available management tools. Conventional chemicals alone are not sufficient to manage the pests for the long term as insects get resistant to them. Integrated pest management offers several options over much dependency on chemical programs. Pests like whiteflies, aphids, mealy bugs, thrips, and Crape myrtle bark scale impose a big concern for growers every year. Moreover, invasive pests like European pepper moths, and invasive thrips species are threatening this valuable industry. Learning about pest management options can help to know the pests earlier and develop sustainable management. Takeaway points: 1. Types of Ornamental pests. 2. Injury pattern of different pests. 3. Approach and implementation of different steps of Integrated pest management for specific pests. Rafia Khan is the Assistant Professor Extension Entomologist for Texas A&M University Entomology.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Landscape and Irrigation Lab Learn Tips to design and maintain ponds within your landscapes With Sajjad Razvi, VistaProRead less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend. The Demo is located at the Landscape and Irrigation Lab. Join us for an exciting session on how to transform your landscape at night with vibrant lighting! Discover the basics of landscape lighting, including the different types (LED, solar, low-voltage) and the many benefits, such as enhancing aesthetics, improving safety and security, and extending the usability of your outdoor spaces. Learn key design principles like layering light, identifying focal points, achieving balance, and choosing the right color temperatures. We will demonstrate various techniques to add color, including colored LED lights, filters, uplighting, downlighting, silhouetting, and shadowing. See practical setup examples that showcase the stunning impact of different colors on landscape elements and explore smart lighting controls to easily manage your outdoor lighting. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your landscape and create a beautiful night-time oasis!Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Propagation Station DEMO: Speakers Kevin Ong and Samantha Knackstadt Join our education session on identifying common greenhouse pests to safeguard your crops and maximize yields. Learn to spot aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs, which threaten plant health and productivity. Discover practical techniques for early detection, including regular inspection, magnification tools, and sticky traps, enabling proactive pest management. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and protect your greenhouse investment.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Retail Workspace Gain insights into the intricate process of assessing rose cultivars for characteristics such as bloom size, color, fragrance, disease resistance, and overall plant vigor. Through detailed explanations and practical demonstrations, participants will learn about the standards employed by rose societies, breeders, and horticultural experts to determine the quality and suitability of roses for various purposes, including garden cultivation, exhibition, and commercial production. This session aims to equip rose enthusiasts, gardeners, and industry professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions when selecting and evaluating roses. Paul Winkski is with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and is a horticulturist with a broad base of experience in the greenhouse and nursery industry. He has been successful because of his expertise in new product development, integrated pest management, and product knowledge. What’s unique about his approach is making the effort to fully comprehend the big picture for both the grower and the consumer. He enjoys listening to the grower’s needs, understanding the consumer’s wants and developing a plan for both to be successful.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Landscape & Irrigation Lab Dive into the role of essential nutrients in bolstering plant health and resilience against pathogens, while also examining how nutrient imbalances can predispose plants to diseases. Through practical examples and case studies tailored to the Texas landscape, participants will learn about integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that incorporate nutrition management to mitigate disease risks effectively. The session aims to empower landscape professionals, gardeners, and horticulturists with the knowledge and tools necessary to optimize plant nutrition and implement sustainable disease management practices in Texas landscapes. David Stroud and Dax Slate, NexMowRead less...

DEMO: FREE - Meet Up Garden Discover essential insights into the differences between the H-2A and H-2B visa programs, offering valuable guidance for businesses navigating temporary worker programs. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the eligibility requirements, application processes, and compliance obligations associated with each visa category. Through practical examples and expert analysis, participants will learn how to assess their workforce needs effectively and determine the most suitable visa program for their business. This session aims to empower employers with the knowledge and resources necessary to make informed decisions and optimize their utilization of the H-2A and H-2B visa programs.   with expert speaker David Hubbard, masLaborRead less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Discover a diverse range of native plant species and sustainable landscaping solutions offered by the company. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the benefits and applications of native seeds in ecological restoration, habitat enhancement, and landscape design projects. Through hands-on demonstrations and informative sessions, participants will learn about the importance of using native plants to support local ecosystems, conserve water, and promote biodiversity. This presentation aims to inspire and educate landscape professionals, conservationists, and gardening enthusiasts on the value of incorporating native seeds into their projects, fostering environmental stewardship and resilience in natural landscapes. George Cates serves as the Restoration Specialist at Native American Seed, based in Junction, Texas. With a BA in Environmental Studies from Austin College, George brings extensive expertise to his role, having led numerous prairie restorations and managed seed production operations across various regions in Texas. Weston Neiman is the Inventory/Human Resources Supervisor at Native American Seed. He pursued his education at New Mexico State University, where he also played football, and earned a master's degree from Texas Tech University. Weston is dedicated to supporting the mission of Native American Seed, working tirelessly to contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.Read less...

DEMO: Must be registered for EXPO Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend: Retail Workspace Are you interested in incorporating more Texas native plants into your landscape designs, but aren't familiar with your options? In this class, the Native Plant Society of Texas has curated our top 21 Texas native species that are easy to source from growers, are hardy in extreme temps, and are prolific bloomers and pollinator magnets! For each of the 21 plants covered you will learn: *Common and scientific name *Sun requirements *Water requirements *Growth size and habit *Wildlife benefits *Bloom period *Deer resistance, and more! With speaker: Joan Miller, Native Plant Society of TexasRead less...