Mobile Convention Center
Mobile, AL
Education Sessions
January 14th, 2026
Trade Show
January 15th & 16th, 2026
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Education
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| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM CST
|
What Equipment Testing Reveals About the Future of Landscape Care
This session provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape maintenance industry, examining the post-COVID shift in public perception that’s driving demand for more sustainable practices. We'll explore what rigorous, real-world equipment testing reveals about the evolving future of landscape care. Drawing on performance data from blowers, mowers, trimmers, and emerging autonomous systems, we examine how metrics such as runtime, energy consumption, noise, durability, and task efficiency directly translate into return on investment and inform day-to-day operational decisions.
Speaker(s): Paul Bartley, Auburn UniversityLocation: 203 A |
Location: 203 A |
2026011410:0010:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
1:30 PM - 2:20 PM CST
|
Protect and Insure Your Crops
Let's take a Deep Dive into the new and improved Nursery Crop Insurance Policy named Nursery Value Select. As a fellow nursery grower, I understand the desire to protect and secure your investments and livelihood. We will discuss how the policy works, eligible plant types and categories, what it protects against, important dates to remember, but most importantly how to best safeguard your nursery operation.
Speaker(s): Miranda Varner, My Team Cattle & Crop InsuranceLocation: 203 A |
Location: 203 A |
2026011413:3014:20 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
3:30 PM - 4:20 PM CST
|
J-1 Visa Program Information
Join us for an engaging and informative course designed specifically for American agribusinesses looking to tap into the benefits of the J-1 Visa Program. This program enables you to bring bright and enthusiastic English-speaking international interns & trainees to your operation for 12-month programs. We will break down the J-1 Visa process in an easy-to-understand way. You’ll learn about eligibility requirements, the application process, and how to find the right candidates for your operation. Whether you're new to the J-1 Visa Program or looking to expand your existing knowledge, this course will equip you with the information and insight you need to evaluate the program and consider its application on your operation.
Speaker(s): Hunter Alston, The Wise FoundationLocation: 203 A |
Location: 203 A |
2026011415:3016:20 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM CST
|
Puns N’ Roses: Horticulture Concepts in Concert
The award winning “Puns N’ Roses” publication series focuses on tying together horticulture hints with hit songs and artists of the 80s and 90s. This presentation will highlight several articles from this series, including “NOT Every Rose Has its Thorn”, “Karma Camellia”, and “Talking Spray Heads”.
Speaker(s): Damon Abdi, LSU AgCenterLocation: 203 A |
Location: 203 A |
2026011409:0009:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM CST
|
What’s Happening at Hammond
Interested in the wonderful work going on at the Hammond Research Station? This presentation will highlight garden favorites, ongoing landscape research, past programming, and upcoming events happening this year at Hammond.
Speaker(s): Damon Abdi, LSU AgCenterLocation: 203 A |
Location: 203 A |
2026011411:0011:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM CST
|
Automated in-field inventory management and quality assessment system for ornamental nursery crops
This talk introduces an automated system that simplifies inventory management and plant quality evaluation for container nurseries in Alabama and nationwide. Leveraging AI technology, the system precisely counts and tracks plant. By automating these tasks, farmers can enjoy time and labor savings. This enables farmers to make data-driven decisions and optimize their operations.
Speaker(s): Tanzeel Rehman, Auburn UniversityLocation: 203 A |
Location: 203 A |
2026011414:3015:00 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM CST
|
The HR Balance Sheet: Build Human Capital
In today’s competitive talent landscape, your people are either your greatest assets—or your biggest liabilities. Learn how to strengthen your organization’s “human balance sheet” through effective interview techniques, assessment tools, and psychological insights that identify and develop top performers. Discover decisive strategies for building winning teams and staying ahead in the ongoing race for talent.
Speaker(s): George Urvari, Oriole LandscapingLocation: 204 B |
Location: 204 B |
2026011409:0009:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM CST
|
Estimating Mastery: Have Your Estimate Sell Itself
Turn your estimates into powerful sales tools. Learn how to create clear, complete, and compelling proposals that not only cover every detail, but also showcase the value of your company. Discover techniques for breaking jobs into manageable pieces, including what you’re not doing, and using proper naming conventions to eliminate confusion and inspire confidence. When your estimates tell the right story, customers don’t just see cost, they see value.
Speaker(s): George Urvari, Oriole LandscapingLocation: 204 B |
Location: 204 B |
2026011410:0010:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM CST
|
The Myths About Business Growth: All Profits Aren’t Equal
Not all growth is good growth. True success isn’t just about a bigger top line. It’s about healthy, sustainable progress that improves profitability, stability, and even quality of life. In this session, discover why the way you grow determines how smooth your journey will be or whether your business survives the ride at all. Learn the key do’s and don’ts of scaling, and find out which roles to prioritize as you expand to ensure balanced, lasting success.
Speaker(s): George Urvari, Oriole LandscapingLocation: 204 B |
Location: 204 B |
2026011411:0011:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
1:30 PM - 2:20 PM CST
|
Boss vs. Leader: Which One Are You?
Discover what truly sets great leaders apart from mere managers. In this dynamic session, explore the difference between leadership and micromanagement, and uncover the essential principles for building a winning team and a thriving workplace culture. Learn how personality, communication, and leadership styles shape team success—and gain practical tools for balancing risk while empowering others to perform at their best. Speaker(s): George Urvari, Oriole LandscapingLocation: 204 B |
Location: 204 B |
2026011413:3014:20 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
2:30 PM - 3:20 PM CST
|
Ugly Financials: What Happens When You Clean Up the Mess?
Messy books can hide major problems—and opportunities. If you’ve ever wondered where the money went (or where it should go), you’re not alone: 99% of companies struggle with unclear financials. In this session, learn how to make sense of your numbers, uncover the story they’re telling, and take back control of your business finances. Gain practical tools to clean up the chaos, build clarity, and create lasting wealth through sound financial management—it’s simpler than you think.
Speaker(s): George Urvari, Oriole LandscapingLocation: 204 B |
Location: 204 B |
2026011414:3015:20 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
3:30 PM - 4:20 PM CST
|
Delegation: Empower Your Team and Find Business Freedom
If you’re constantly putting out fires and buried in the day-to-day, you’re not alone. Discover how to break free from burnout by building structures that empower your team to take ownership of operations so you can focus on strategy and growth. Learn practical systems for delegation, meeting frameworks that keep accountability high, and leadership habits that transform your business from reactive to self-sustaining. Gain the freedom to work on your business, not in it and rediscover why you started it in the first place.
Speaker(s): George Urvari, Oriole LandscapingLocation: 204 B |
Location: 204 B |
2026011415:3016:20 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Thursday, Jan 15, 2026 |
Thursday, Jan 15, 2026
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST
|
Fundamentals of Design Graphics Workshop
This workshop provides intense, hands-on instruction in design illustration and graphics. The full-day workshop offers green industry professions bold yet efficient strategies to communicate design concepts on paper. Providing a custom rendered design is one of the most powerful marketing tools available for residential customers. The course is recommended for participants wishing to improve their design communication and drawing skills. All drafting tools and supplies provided. Any questions? Contact Dr. Richard Ludwig @ Lscapeworkshops@bellsouth.net
Speaker(s): Richard Ludwig, Landscape Design & Graphics WorkshopLocation: 203 B |
Location: 203 B |
2026011509:0017:00 038 | THU, JAN 15 | |||
| Friday, Jan 16, 2026 |
Friday, Jan 16, 2026
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST
|
Creating the Ultimate Landscape Design Workshop
This workshop is offered for participants to enhance their design philosophy and create plans that are stunning, unified and functional. The class takes an architectural approach and emphasizes topics such as form composition and lines of force. This hands-on workshop provides extensive training in design theory; moving from a basic understanding to creating a master plan in just one day. Improve your skills as you create beautiful, practical, sustainable design solutions. All drafting tools and supplies provided. Any questions? Contact Dr. Richard Ludwig @ Lscapeworkshops@bellsouth.net
Speaker(s): Richard Ludwig, Landscape Design & Graphics WorkshopLocation: 203 B |
Location: 203 B |
2026011609:0017:00 040 | FRI, JAN 16 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM CST
|
Irrigation Troubleshooting: Diagnosing Electrical and Low Pressure Issues
This 4-hour technical workshop will discuss the tips, techniques and tools to investigate and repair electrical faults using a systematic approach that will reduce diagnosing time. The class will also discuss common causes for low pressure problems how to pinpoint their location. Speaker(s): Jeffrey KnightLocation: 203 B |
Location: 203 B |
2026011408:0012:00 036 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM CST
|
The Basics of Financials Part 1
Too many business managers and owners rely on a bookkeeper or their accountant to track the financial data. If we were to give a quiz to these same people, we would likely find them lacking in basic financial knowledge. In this informative session, participants will obtain a well-rounded understanding of how they can use the information to help them in better managing their business.
Speaker(s): Tom Shay, Profits Plus SolutionsLocation: 204 A |
Location: 204 A |
2026011409:0009:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM CST
|
The Basics of Financials Part 2
Too many business managers and owners rely on a bookkeeper or their accountant to track the financial data. If we were to give a quiz to these same people, we would likely find them lacking in basic financial knowledge. In this informative session, participants will obtain a well-rounded understanding of how they can use the information to help them in better managing their business.
Speaker(s): Tom Shay, Profits Plus SolutionsLocation: 204 A |
Location: 204 A |
2026011410:0010:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM CST
|
Cashflow Management
Sure, many all businesses get a financial sheet that is updated each month, but is it being utilized to its fullest? Do they create a cash flow chart? Have they established a set of goals, both long and short term? Seminar attendees will discuss examples of these and create a plan for the future of their business. Understanding cashflow management will show you how much money to expect in your checking account for each of the next 12 months.
Speaker(s): Tom Shay, Profits Plus SolutionsLocation: 204 A |
Location: 204 A |
2026011411:0011:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
1:30 PM - 2:20 PM CST
|
What Your Accountant Is Not Telling You
You may get all the proper forms and taxes completed on time. You probably have never had your business audited with regard to any of the forms or tax returns you have submitted. Yet, there are many things that you should know about the accounting aspect of your business. Your accountant may know most of them, but to make sure, both of you have to be "on the same page". This session will share 14 key aspects of financial management that you should be aware of.
Speaker(s): Tom Shay, Profits Plus SolutionsLocation: 204 A |
Location: 204 A |
2026011413:3014:20 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
2:30 PM - 3:20 PM CST
|
Characteristics of a Successful Business
Many of us hear about the better operating businesses within the industry. Often times we meet these owners, while wishing we could be more like them, and are hopeful as we talk to the owner that we can pickup a tip or two that will reflect in the profitability and operation of our own business. Having done so for many years, Tom Shay is going to share his list of the most important traits to duplicate from these industry leaders.
Speaker(s): Tom Shay, Profits Plus SolutionsLocation: 204 A |
Location: 204 A |
2026011414:3015:20 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
3:30 PM - 4:20 PM CST
|
Creating a Business Plan
Take an individual who is purchasing or opening a new business and the lender is likely going to require a written business plan. Unfortunately, when the loan is approved, the business plan goes on the shelf and is never looked at again. Even an existing business is likely to not have a business plan. Without a plan, how will the business find, or know if it is on the path to profitable success? Participants in this session will learn how they can improve their business by creating and utilizing a business plan they have written with a vision for the future.
Speaker(s): Tom Shay, Profits Plus SolutionsLocation: 204 A |
Location: 204 A |
2026011415:3016:20 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM CST
|
Worried About Whiteflies?
There seems to be a resurgence of whiteflies in agriculture and horticulture. This talk with update your management toolkit with information about these small, sap suckers.
Speaker(s): David Held, Auburn UniversityLocation: 201 |
Location: 201 |
2026011410:4511:15 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM CST
|
Managing Invasive Ants
Fire ants get all the fame, but they’re no longer the only villains. Meet the new invasive ant species moving into the Southeast and learn how to identify, monitor, and manage them before they take over your nursery or landscape.
Speaker(s): Jeremy Pickens, Auburn UniversityLocation: 201 |
Location: 201 |
2026011408:3009:00 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM CST
|
Managing Diseases in Warm Season Turfgrasses
This talk will cover the identification and management of common turfgrass diseases as well as share research with new biological control agents.
Speaker(s): Kayla Sullins, Auburn UniversityLocation: 201 |
Location: 201 |
2026011409:0009:30 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM CST
|
Overview of the Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper
Learn why Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper warrants attention and the current information on its regulated pest status in Florida. The host plant focus will be ornamental hibiscus, both tropical and hardy varieties, as well as roselle. Speaker(s): Mark Freeman, BioWorksLocation: 201 |
Location: 201 |
2026011409:3010:00 036 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM CST
|
Disease or Something Else?
Plants don’t always get sick. Sometimes they’re just stressed. Learn how to tell real diseases from heat, drought, nutrition, chemicals, and other abiotic troublemakers so you can diagnose problems with confidence instead of guesswork.
Speaker(s): Jeremy Pickens, Auburn UniversityLocation: 201 |
Location: 201 |
2026011410:1510:45 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM CST
|
Managing Scale Insects on Ornamental Plants
Managing scale insects can be challenging because of their size and cryptic appearance. This talk will provide insights on the different families, their biologies, and how that information is useful for management.
Speaker(s): David Held, Auburn UniversityLocation: 201 |
Location: 201 |
2026011408:0008:30 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
11:15 AM - 11:45 AM CST
|
Boxwood Disease Mitigation Options to Increase Yield in Container Production
Techniques will be discussed for stress management in container production of boxwood that reduce disease risk. Propagation recommendations and transplant scheduling will be shared along with recent research that reduce the risk of production losses. Growing healthy boxwood root systems quickly is the basis of these disease prevention strategies.
Speaker(s): Mark Freeman, BioWorksLocation: 201 |
Location: 201 |
2026011411:1511:45 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM CST
|
Weed Management In Landscape Beds
Killing weeds in turf is straightforward. Landscape beds? That’s where they come to misbehave. Explore practical, real-world strategies for keeping beds clean using smart cultural practices, better mulch management, and herbicides that actually work.
Speaker(s): Jeremy Pickens, Auburn UniversityLocation: 201 |
Location: 201 |
2026011411:4512:15 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
9:00 AM - 9:10 AM CST
|
Location: 202 |
Location: 202 |
2026011409:0009:10 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM CST
|
Location: 202 |
Location: 202 |
2026011410:5011:30 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
9:50 AM - 10:50 AM CST
|
Camellias and Azaleas and Other Plant Collections at Bellingrath Gardens
Speaker(s): Todd Lasseigne, Bellingrath Gardens & HomeLocation: 202 |
Location: 202 |
2026011409:5010:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
9:10 AM - 9:50 AM CST
|
The Next Big Thing: Consumer Trends Shaping the Future of Horticulture
Speaker(s): Julie Campbell, University of GeorgiaLocation: 202 |
Location: 202 |
2026011409:1009:50 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM CST
|
Location: 202 |
Location: 202 |
2026011411:3012:00 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM CST
|
Sustainable Landscaping: The Goals, Planning and Plants
Speaker(s): Heather Kirk-Ballard, University of GeorgiaLocation: 202 |
Location: 202 |
2026011413:3014:15 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
2:15 PM - 3:15 PM CST
|
Woody Plant Observations / News for Gulf States Landscapers and Retailers
Speaker(s): Allen Owings, Bracy's Nursery, LLCLocation: 202 |
Location: 202 |
2026011414:1515:15 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
3:15 PM - 4:00 PM CST
|
Southern Living and Encore Azaleas: Plant Update from PDSI
Speaker(s): Buddy Lee, Plant Development Services Inc.Location: 202 |
Location: 202 |
2026011415:1516:00 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM CST
|
The Louisiana Native Landscape Professional Certification Program
Louisiana Native Plant Society developed and is currently implementing a certification program by which local landscape and environmental professionals are trained to understand the ecology of, identify, design with, propagate and maintain native plant landscapes. The program created a directory of those successfully completing the instruction. This will allow homeowners, municipalities and government entities to find qualified and knowledgeable professionals in this field. The first Basic Training class was held in June 2025 in Lafayette Louisiana, followed by another class in Baton Rouge in September. Additional Basic training classes will be scheduled in cities across Louisiana. We will begin development of advanced, specialized training in 2026. Speaker(s): Dona WeifenbachLocation: 202 |
Location: 202 |
2026011416:0017:00 000 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Thursday, Jan 15, 2026 |
Thursday, Jan 15, 2026
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST
|
Fundamentals of Design Graphics Workshop
This workshop provides intense, hands-on instruction in design illustration and graphics. The full-day workshop offers green industry professions bold yet efficient strategies to communicate design concepts on paper. Providing a custom rendered design is one of the most powerful marketing tools available for residential customers. The course is recommended for participants wishing to improve their design communication and drawing skills. All drafting tools and supplies provided. Any questions? Contact Dr. Richard Ludwig via Lscapeworkshops@bellsouth.net
Location: |
Location: |
2026011509:0017:00 050 | THU, JAN 15 | |||
| Friday, Jan 16, 2026 |
Friday, Jan 16, 2026
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST
|
Creating the Ultimate Landscape Design Workshop
This workshop is offered for participants to enhance their design philosophy and create plans that are stunning, unified and functional. The class takes an architectural approach and emphasizes topics such as form composition and lines of force. This hands-on workshop provides extensive training in design theory; moving from a basic understanding to creating a master plan in just one day. Improve your skills as you create beautiful, practical, sustainable design solutions. All drafting tools and supplies provided. Any questions? Contact Dr. Richard Ludwig via Lscapeworkshops@bellsouth.net
Location: |
Location: |
2026011609:0017:00 060 | FRI, JAN 16 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
8:00 AM - 12:15 PM CST
|
Location: |
Location: |
2026011408:0012:15 036 | WED, JAN 14 | |||
| Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026 |
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST
|
Location: |
Location: |
2026011409:0017:00 037 | WED, JAN 14 |