Green Report

In this episode, we sit down with Savanna Taylor Thornton, Business Development lead at Lone Star Trees, to get an insider's look at how the 2025 spring season is shaping up for one of Central Texas' premier wholesale tree growers. Savanna shares what's flying off the field this year, the growing demand from landscape and nursery professionals, and what trends are taking root when it comes to tree types and sizes. We also dive into how recent worldwide issues that are impacting production, the ongoing challenges her team is navigating—from labor and logistics to pricing pressures—and how Lone Star Trees continues to prioritize quality and service. Beyond the field, Savanna brings a dynamic perspective shaped by her roles as Vice Chairman of TNLA Region VIII and a graduate of TNLA's Leadership Bootcamp. She talks about how those leadership experiences have informed her approach to business development and industry advocacy. Savanna shares her foresight into looking ahead to what's next for Lone Star Trees in 2025 and shares how professionals can best connect for collaboration and sourcing. Guest Bio: Savanna Taylor Thornton is the Business Development lead for Lone Star Trees, a family-run wholesale grower of field-grown specimen trees based in Central Texas. She also serves as the Vice Chairman of TNLA Region VIII and is a proud graduate of TNLA's Leadership Bootcamp Class III. With a strong horticultural background and a passion for supporting the green industry, Savanna is dedicated to bridging the gap between quality tree production and the professionals who need them. Special Thanks: This episode is brought to you by the Federation of Employers and Workers of America (FEWA). FEWA is committed to supporting ethical employment practices and workforce solutions in agriculture and beyond. To learn more, visit https://fewaglobal.org/.

In this insightful episode, we're joined by Dr. Andrew King, ornamental specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Research and assistant professor in the Department of Horticultural Sciences at Texas A&M University. Dr. King gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the Texas Superstar® Trials, explaining how this influential program evaluates and elevates standout plants that thrive in Texas conditions—impacting growers, landscapers, and gardeners statewide. We dive into the key traits researchers look for in potential superstars, from heat and drought tolerance to visual appeal and marketability. Dr. King also discusses his work in additional ornamental plant trials, shedding light on how these efforts complement the Superstar program and broaden the understanding of performance in diverse environments. Listeners will hear about some exciting new plants emerging from recent trials, what makes them promising for Texas landscapes, and the current research Dr. King is leading that could shape the future of ornamental plant selection and production. As climate conditions evolve, Dr. King shares his perspective on the biggest opportunities and challenges ahead for ornamental research—including sustainability, water use, and the importance of regionally adapted selections. Guest Bio: Andrew King, Ph.D., is the ornamental specialist for Texas A&M AgriLife Research and an assistant professor in the Department of Horticultural Sciences at Texas A&M University. Based at the AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Overton, Dr. King supports greenhouse and nursery operations across the state, with 75% of his role dedicated to research and 25% to extension outreach. A fourth-generation horticulturist with nearly 30 years of industry experience, he blends academic expertise with practical insights from his family's 110-year-old nursery business. Special Thanks: This episode is brought to you by the Federation of Employers and Workers of America (FEWA). FEWA is committed to supporting ethical employment practices and workforce solutions in agriculture and beyond. To learn more, visit https://fewaglobal.org/.  

Join moderator Curtis Smith (TNLA) and expert panelists Devin Guinn (AquaGreen Global, LLC), Anique Watson (Action Visa Assistance) and Antonio Vergara (Mundo Verde Irrigation and Landscaping) for an insightful live podcast. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of H-2A and H-2B work programs in the Texas green industry, sharing practical advice for navigating complex regulations, securing reliable labor, and fostering workforce sustainability. Sponsored by Forward.us, this session is a must-listen for industry professionals seeking to adapt and thrive. Thank you to our sponsor FORWARD.US

Join us as we “Prepare for All Things” with Brett Hoogeveen, who takes us behind the scenes to share his expert insights on strategic decision-making. Brett, the co-founder of Better Culture and Mindset, has a proven track record of helping teams achieve business growth and success. In this episode, you'll discover how to engage your team in premortem conversations, shifting the focus from the to-do list to driving meaningful outcomes.

Join Paul Winski from Texas AgriLife Extension as he talks with Bill Barr, a seasoned expert in the nursery industry. In this episode, Bill reflects on his extensive career, which includes experience at several nurseries as well as his current role as a consultant specializing in propagation and new product development. Together, they explore the evolution of the nursery industry, highlighting the significant impact of technology on propagation techniques. Bill discusses his thoughts on automation and AI as commonplace tools within the industry, along with key factors affecting vegetative propagation. He shares tried-and-true germination methods and evaluates the advantages of different hormone applications. Additionally, Paul and Bill delve into the recent transition of the International Plant Propagator's Society to the International Plant Production Society, emphasizing how this change will enhance IPPS's reach and influence in the field of propagation.

In this podcast episode, dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) as the Green Report engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Mark Manny from Evergro Organic Recycling, Weston Nieman of Native American Seed and Ryan Laird from San Jacinto Environmental Suppliers. The group discusses their current utilization of AI in various business operations and contemplates its potential impact on the industry's future. They also talk about how AI can optimize day-to-day activities, leading to enhanced efficiency within the Green Industry. The dialogue highlights both the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI, raising intriguing questions about its role in reshaping the nursery and landscape industry's sustainable practices.

Paul Winski with Texas AgriLife Extension talks with Adrian Muehlstein, TMCNP at Southwest Wholesale Nursery, where Adrian discusses strategies for preparing their staff for Spring by ensuring they are well-versed in plant characteristics, equipment training, and safety. Adrian also addresses supply chain challenges in delivering quality products to their customers. As a former Chairman of the TNLA State Board of Directors, Adrian emphasizes his dedication to developing youth initiatives within the association to support education and workforce training for high school students.

Join us on our latest podcast episode as we dive into the world of sales with Jack Jostes, President & CEO of Ramblin Jackson. Ramblin Jackson is a full-service agency specializing in sales and marketing strategy, visual identity, website design, development, and search engine optimization. Their mission is to help small businesses succeed. In this insightful conversation, Jack shares invaluable insights on how to qualify budget in sales conversations. Listen in as Jack shares his top tips to secure customers for landscape companies gearing up for the busy Spring Season. Plus, don't miss out on a special promo code for Jack's book, "The Tree of Good Fortune." Tune in now to elevate your sales game and make the most out of every conversation.

TNLA delves into the fraudulent activities plaguing Landscape Supply Companies, causing significant financial losses. Luis Chamorro, representing Heirloom Soils, shares insights on combating this issue, detailing how he collaborated with Facebook to dismantle over 2500 suspicious profiles. He extends an invitation for further discussion and assistance through direct messages on any of Heirloom Soils' social media platforms. TNLA has joined forces with Luis to develop an informative flyer for distribution among your employees. To access this invaluable resource, please get in touch with Luis via email at luis.chamorro@warrens.us.

In this episode, Paul Winski with Texas AgriLife dives into the world of wholesale nursery business with Brad Abrameit, President of Magnolia Gardens Nursery. With 165 acres of production specializing in shrubs, perennials, and trees, with both a wholesale division and tissue culture lab Magnolia Gardens Nursery stands as a key player in the Texas market, with 95% of its business staying within the state. The nursery operates as a midsize company with a unique focus on tissue culture, selling young plants wholesale. Brad shares insights into the intricacies of running two different but interconnected businesses under one roof, leveraging shared services, administration, and technical expertise. One of the key trends Brad discusses is the increasing demand for cold-hardy and drought-tolerant plant materials, growing edibles and growing plants that are drought and pest resistant native to Texas. Brad sheds light on the challenges facing the nursery industry, particularly concerning rising costs and inflation. Labor, in particular, has emerged as the biggest cost increase as a percentage of sales, posing significant operational hurdles. As the conversation unfolds, Brad emphasizes the importance of adapting to evolving market demands while staying true to the nursery's core principles. With a commitment to providing quality, sustainable plant solutions, Magnolia Gardens Nursery continues to thrive amidst industry shifts and challenges. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the dynamic world of wholesale nursery business, straight from the desk of Brad Abrameit, a visionary leader in the field.  

In this Green Report Podcast episode, Texas AgriLife's Paul Winske interviews Mark Rainey with Rancho Encino, out of Bay City, TX. Mark delves into his extensive career as a large tree grower in the nursery sector. The conversation covers valuable insights, such as collaborating with Landscape Architects, maintaining quality standards for a growing operation, and navigating labor initiatives. Mark also provides advice for emerging professionals seeking a career in the Green Industry.    

We are thrilled to feature Courtney Ramsey, the dynamic force behind Courtney Ramsey Speaks. As a professional speaker and expert in navigating complex labor issues for business leaders, Courtney brings a wealth of knowledge. Courtney shares insights on strategically enhancing employee satisfaction, implementing effective retention methods, and fostering influential team communication in this exclusive episode. We are also excited to announce that Courtney will be a distinguished speaker at the Lone Star Hort Forum in Grapevine this January, hosted by TNLA. During the Lone Star Hort Forum, Courtney will present several insightful sessions to provide strategies for the Texas Green Industry to tackle labor challenges head-on. We are honored to have Courtney on The Green Report, providing listeners with a deep dive into building successful leaders, offering tips on delivering foundational feedback, and guiding them through the art of handling tough conversations – crucial skills for both leaders and managers. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode with Courtney Ramsey.

Join us on "Green Industry Insights," where host Paul Winski from Texas AgriLife engages in a captivating conversation with James and Allison Berry, founders of Environmental Landscape Solutions. Discover the challenges and triumphs in West Texas' dynamic landscape industry. In this podcast, the Berrys unveil their commitment to sustainability and strategies for tackling the labor challenge. They also share invaluable tips on staying current and knowledgeable in an ever-evolving industry and how the Nursery/Landscape EXPO and its education programs have helped their team gain the expertise they need to excel. Don't miss "Green Industry Insights" for an exclusive peek into West Texas' landscape sector. Subscribe now to gain insights from industry leaders and keep up with the latest trends.

In this episode, Representative Dwayne Burns details starting his career with the Grain and Feed Association before being hired as a legislative analyst for State Representatives Arlene Wohlgemuth and Gary Walker during the 74th legislative session. Representative Burns speaks of his time at the Texas Department of Agriculture under then-Commissioner Rick Perry, serving as a coordinator for TDA's Intergovernmental Affairs Division and as an inspector for the Texas Department of Agriculture, where he was responsible for weights and measures compliance, crop and seed certification, and enforcement of Texas' plant and pest quarantine laws, among other tasks over a 10-county region which included Bosque and Johnson counties. Representative Burns enthusiastically exclaims about his family ranch that's still in operation today and why he has taken up the fight to advance Texas Proposition 1, more colloquially known as Right-to-Farm.

Explore the inspiring journey of John Leifester, TCLP, as he delves into his unwavering commitment to the Green Industry on TNLA's Green Report podcast. With a compelling narrative, John shares his transformative experience from entering the industry to becoming the owner of Dedicated Landscape Solutions, a prestigious family-owned construction and high-end residential landscape firm in San Antonio, Texas, since 2014. In this engaging episode, John unveils the invaluable lessons he's gleaned on increasing his company's profitability. Moreover, he highlights his profound dedication to serving on the TNLA State Board of Directors, championing the association's Youth Initiative. John passionately discusses TNLA's cutting-edge curriculum packages tailored for high schools, designed to empower the next generation. He aspires to connect with aspiring students, demonstrating that the Green Industry offers lucrative and viable career opportunities. John's vision extends to inspiring students to embark on their journey toward becoming certified professionals even before graduation, taking meaningful strides toward a prosperous future. Take advantage of this captivating episode filled with insights and inspiration.

Featured in our latest episode of the Green Report Board Member Spotlight series, Rachelle Kemp owner of R&R Landscaping in Waco and incoming board chairwoman of TNLA.  Rachelle discusses how she got into the green industry, issues that TNLA will help tackle, and important priorities for her time on the board.  

Enjoy the launch of this new mini-series spotlighting key TNLA Board Members, this episode focusing on TNLA State Board Chairman Kevin Grossberndt.  We discuss his background, getting involved in TNLA Leadership, challenges facing the industry, ERP program, Growers Summit, and more.   Thank you to our sponsor Texas Mutual! 

Listen to this episode to get an update from D.C. on the H-2B amendment that passed the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and where that leaves us for FY 23.  We also discuss the status of the City of Dallas considering a potential ban on gas-powered landscape equipment.  Lastly a brief update on Austin's Landscape & Irrigation ordinance as who's coming to TNLA EXPO.  

Listen in to this episode where we speak with Kody Bessent, CEO of the Plains Cotton Growers, Inc. as we dive into the details of the Phase One announcement of the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) - the first installment of federal disaster money following Winter Storm Uri in 2021. In addition we review the Texas Ag Council, an organization that TNLA and PCG are deeply involved in regarding state-level policy.  Lastly we review a plant pest and disease bill both our organizations came together to pass in 2021 and what the future might hold on that issue.  Be sure to subscribe and give the podcast five stars.  Thanks for listening! 

This episode we talk with Lori Whitten with Action Visa and Gray Delaney with  SEA regarding reform initiatives in the H2 programs. Topics include a program overview, strategies on H-2B cap relief, and the legislative landscape we are working in. Listen in for a conversation on how we improve the H2 programs for the green industry.

This episode of the Green Report focuses on the current legal environment surrounding the COVID vaccine mandate.  Listen in as Laura Fowler with the Fowler Law Firm discusses compliance and the future of these mandates.  The Texas Workforce Commission letter described in the episode can be found here: https://www.twc.texas.gov/files/businesses/commissioner-letter-covid19-vac-mandate-120821-twc.pdf

TNLA takes a deep dive with Mike Meroney, an independent lobbyist fighting for better workforce solutions and developing curriculum for high school students. Mike is a strong advocate when it comes to developing a strong workforce for the future. During this episode, he provides insight on some of the bills he has worked on when industries have hit the panic button on their employment struggle. Mike also walks us through his current work on driving policymakers to pass legislation to help add highly valued high school curriculum to TEA's "magic list" of IBC's, plus much more.

Dr. Marco Palma & Dr. Charlie Hall What is the economic contribution of the Texas nursery and landscape industry?  Listen in as Dr. Marco Palma and Dr. Charlie Hall dive into the details of the most recent report from Texas A&M University on the impact of our industry on the State of Texas.  With the 2020 report detailing over $22 billion dollars in total sales, there is a lot of value to discuss for business owners and policymakers.  New! Watch the podcast on YouTube Here! 

Episode 10 features Zaira Garcia, Texas State Director of FWD.us, a national organization with state-level chapters focused on fixing the broken U.S. immigration system.  Amongst the priorities for FWD.us is improving the H-2B and H-2A programs, something the green industry has been working on for years. In this episode, we go into the work of FWD.us and their partnership with TNLA along with other Texas business groups to improve these vital programs.Thank you to our sponsor of this episode for the support, Hotchkiss Insurance Agency.   For additional information on the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association click here.

In this episode, our guest is John Farner who serves as the Industry Development Director for the national Irrigation Association. John jumps into topics related to COVID relief, federal developments on water, and a brief overview of the election landscape heading into November 2020. John gives our audience a perspective of someone who is working on water-related issues in Congress and someone who monitors the development of irrigation policy across the United States.   Thank you to our sponsor of this episode for the support, Hotchkiss Insurance Agency.

In this episode of the TNLA Green Report we interview Tiffany Lashmet, author of the Texas Agriculture Law Blog. Tiffany is an associate professor and extension specialist for the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension.  In our interview we covered the Water of the United States update, liability on pesticide drift, landowner liability, and property rights.  Be sure to listen to the episode and check out Tiffany's blog at https://agrilife.org/texasaglaw/about/.  

The Green Report speaks with Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller, head of a massive state agency that impacts the green industry daily. In this episode we review some of the critical functions of the agency and discuss some ongoing efforts TNLA and TDA are working in partnership. Commissioner Miller gives an update on the trade missions and disease control efforts in our state.  

In the past two years, major cities across Texas have expanded their regulatory authority by creating new employment mandates on businesses of all sizes.  As Texas employers struggle to comply, the business community, including TNLA, have begun to push back on these patchwork regulations.  This episode we speak with Annie Spilman, Texas State Director for NFIB and spokeswoman for the ASSET coalition on the fight against cities creating employer mandates. 

Texas is preparing for the start of a new industrial hemp market and it has grower's curious about the role of nursery growers in the business potential of hemp propagation.  Listen in as we talk with Zack Guignardi from Colorado about how he is using greenhouses for the propagation of hemp clones, and producing clean, genetically consistent stock for row crop farmers in his state.  We get into propagation techniques, seeds vs. clones, the variations of the hemp plant, and potential risks.

Listen in as TNLA speaks with Texas House Ag Chairman Drew Springer Chairman Springer represents an expansive rural district in North Texas and, as a four-time elected state official, he is in his first session as a committee chairman.  We discuss some of the major issues being tackled this session and the work of his committee.  

State Representative Mary Gonzalez represents Texas House District 75 in eastern El Paso County.  A four-term Texas House member, she has served on various committees important to the Green Industry including Agriculture, Public Education, and House Appropriations.  Listen in as we discuss her entrance into politics, her district, her passion for agriculture, and some of the issues she is confronting in office.  A leading voice for rural Texas and the issues critical to her district, Rep. Gonzalez gives us insight into the inner workings of the Texas House.After the interview we follow up with Communications Assistant, Ashley and Director of Education and Certification, James on the things to look forward to for TNLA Members.

Jay Williams with Landscape Art talks with the Green Report about his experience with the H-2B and the critical impacts this program has for the way his landscaping company is able to do conduct business.   Ryan Skrobarczyk takes a deep dive into H-2B as it happens in DC with NALP’s Vice President of Government Relations, Andrew Bray who shares his perspective of the current Federal climate and getting over the government shutdown and back to business. To stay up to date on TNLA following H-2B and all Federal and State Legislative Issues impacting the Texas Green Industry visit TNLA's Legislative Action Center or if you are a member of TNLA receive weekly e-news updates by subscribing to TNLA's Leader List. To learn more about the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) visit www.TNLAonline.org.

Welcome to The Green Report.  My name is Ryan Skrobarczyk and I am the Director of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs for the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.  The team at TNLA started the Green Report as a way to bring you up-to-date on the news and politics that affect the green industry in Texas.   From growers to landscapers and everyone in between, each business is impacted by the politicians, legislators, and regulators of every stripe and this is our effort to bring you up to speed on what you need to know. ​