East Texas Greenhouse and Nursery Pest Management Seminar Brings Industry Professionals Together
Published on August 19, 2026
The East Texas Greenhouse and Nursery Pest Management Seminar recently brought together 20 green industry professionals for a day of education, discussion, and networking focused on the latest integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for greenhouse and nursery production. Hosted by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension in Overton, the seminar provided timely, research-based information to help growers, nursery managers, landscape professionals, and other green industry stakeholders address emerging pest challenges while improving crop quality and sustainability.
The program featured a diverse lineup of experts covering key aspects of greenhouse and nursery production. Mark Freeman and Sam Gray of BioWorks discussed how biopesticides fit into modern IPM systems. Dr. Kevin Ong, Professor and Associate Department Head with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, presented Starting Clean and Keeping Clean, emphasizing a systems approach to managing greenhouse plant diseases. Dr. Rafia Khan, Extension Entomologist, shared updates on emerging and established greenhouse pests of ornamental crops, highlighting effective monitoring and management strategies. Desaray Melina Delaloza, Inspector with the Texas Department of Agriculture, reviewed current nursery and greenhouse laws and regulations.
The afternoon sessions focused on ecological and cultural practices that strengthen pest management programs. Dr. Arash Kheirodin, Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Dallas, presented on ecologically based integrated pest management for controlled environment cropping systems. Dr. Andrew King, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Overton, concluded the program by discussing horticultural practices that support IPM and promote healthy ornamental production.
Throughout the day, participants engaged with speakers, exchanged experiences, and discussed practical solutions to pest management challenges facing the ornamental industry. These interactions reinforced the value of collaboration between researchers, Extension specialists, regulatory agencies, and industry professionals in developing effective and sustainable management practices.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension appreciates the participation and enthusiasm of everyone who attended. Educational programs like this seminar provide valuable opportunities for continuing education, knowledge exchange, and strengthening partnerships that support a thriving nursery and greenhouse industry across Texas.
The program featured a diverse lineup of experts covering key aspects of greenhouse and nursery production. Mark Freeman and Sam Gray of BioWorks discussed how biopesticides fit into modern IPM systems. Dr. Kevin Ong, Professor and Associate Department Head with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, presented Starting Clean and Keeping Clean, emphasizing a systems approach to managing greenhouse plant diseases. Dr. Rafia Khan, Extension Entomologist, shared updates on emerging and established greenhouse pests of ornamental crops, highlighting effective monitoring and management strategies. Desaray Melina Delaloza, Inspector with the Texas Department of Agriculture, reviewed current nursery and greenhouse laws and regulations.
The afternoon sessions focused on ecological and cultural practices that strengthen pest management programs. Dr. Arash Kheirodin, Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Dallas, presented on ecologically based integrated pest management for controlled environment cropping systems. Dr. Andrew King, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Overton, concluded the program by discussing horticultural practices that support IPM and promote healthy ornamental production.
Throughout the day, participants engaged with speakers, exchanged experiences, and discussed practical solutions to pest management challenges facing the ornamental industry. These interactions reinforced the value of collaboration between researchers, Extension specialists, regulatory agencies, and industry professionals in developing effective and sustainable management practices.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension appreciates the participation and enthusiasm of everyone who attended. Educational programs like this seminar provide valuable opportunities for continuing education, knowledge exchange, and strengthening partnerships that support a thriving nursery and greenhouse industry across Texas.
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Rafia Khan, Ph. D |