Green Report

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.

 

TNLA Green Report, Episode 5: Insights from Mark Rainey: Managing a Large Tree Nursery

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.

 

 

TNLA Green Report, Episode 4: Navigating Tough Conversations with Courtney Ramsey

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.

TNLA Green Report Season 3, Episode 3: Green Industry Insights: Navigating West Texas Landscaping

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.

TNLA Green Report Season 3, Episode 2: Exploring Texans’ Right-to-Farm and the Critical Decision Ahead of Voters

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.