Congratulations to the 2026 IPPS Southern Region the Charles’ Student Research Competition Winners! We are proud to recognize the outstanding students whose research, innovation, and dedication are helping advance the future of horticulture and plant production. Your work represents the spirit of Seek and Share Plant Production Knowledge Globally and the bright future of our industry.
1st Ashley Jackson: University of Florida
Topic: Understanding the Germination of Endangered Woodland Poppymallow (Callirhoe papaver)
2nd Maria Rodriguez: University of Florida
Topic: Effects of application volume and post-treatment irrigation on the efficacy of pre-emergence herbicides
3rd Anna Cleckler: Auburn University
Topic: Preliminary evaluation of early growth and branching responses of Hydrangea macrophylla to selected PGR products and application methods
4th Morgan O’Neill: Auburn University
Topic: A Clean Start for Hibiscus Micropropagation: A Preliminary Evaluation of Emerging Antimicrobial Agents in Tissue Culture Sterilization
In memory of the late Dr. Mack Thetford, a valued member of our horticultural community and a dedicated supporter of student research, the competition awards have been named in his honor. This tribute celebrates his lasting contributions to horticulture and his commitment to encouraging the next generation of industry professionals.
Please consider supporting the IPPS Southern Region Education Endowment with a donation in memory of the late Dr. Mack Thetford. For more than a decade, Mack dedicated his time and expertise to organizing the Charles’ Student Research Competition, helping encourage and recognize the next generation of horticulture professionals. A contribution in his honor is a meaningful way to celebrate his lasting impact on our industry and continue his legacy of education, mentorship, and support for future leaders in plant production.
Congratulations to the 2026 Student Poster Presenters
Congratulations and thank you to all the student poster presenters who participated in the 2026 IPPS Southern Region Annual Meeting in Houston! Your research, enthusiasm, and commitment to advancing horticulture are inspiring. We appreciate you sharing your work with our members and contributing to the exchange of knowledge that makes IPPS so valuable. Supporting and encouraging the next generation of industry professionals is central to our mission, and we look forward to seeing all you accomplish!
Lelia Milner: Virginia Tech
Topic: Obscure mealybug pheromone lure as an IPM tactic in containerized boxwoods
Martha Vilchez: University of Florida
Topic: Developing aging protocols for sugarcane bagasse as an effective substrate component
Clay Yokom: Virginia Tech
Topic: Exploring phytohormone application for extending container plant shelf life
