Green Report

TNLA Green Report Podcast, Season 4, Episode 5: Rooted in Quality: A Conversation with Savanna Taylor Thornton of Lone Star Trees

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/.

TNLA Green Report Podcast, Season 4, Episode 4: Cultivating the Future: Dr. Andrew King on Plant Trials, Research, and Resilient Landscapes in Texas

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/.

 

TNLA Green Report Podcast, Season 4, Episode 3: NAVIGATING THE TEXAS GREEN INDUSTRY'S H-2A AND H-2B IMMIGRATION WORK PROGRAM

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

TNLA Green Report Podcast, Season 4, Episode 2: Mastering Strategic Decisions: Insights for Driving Team Success

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.

TNLA Green Report Podcast, Season 4, Episode 1: Propagation Expert Bill Barr Shares Tricks from the Trade

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.

TNLA Green Report Podcast, Season 3, Episode 10 Sustainability of Using AI in the Green Industry

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.

TNLA Green Report Podcast, Season 3, Episode 9 Growing Together: Insights from Horticulture Expert Adrian Muehlstein, TMCNP

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.

TNLA Green Report Podcast, Season 3, Episode 8 Sales: How To Qualify Budget In Sales Conversations with Jack Jostes

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.

Green Report Podcast Season 3, Ep: 7: "Unmasking the Facebook Marketplace Fraud Ring: Protecting the Green Industry"

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.

TNLA Green Report, Episode 6: Unveiling the Growth Trends in Texas Nursery Business: A Conversation with Brad Abrameit, President at Magnolia Gardens Nursery

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.