2026 IPPS Southern Region Annual Meeting

Celebrating 50 Years of IPPS Southern Region in Houston, Texas

The 2026 IPPS Southern Region Annual Meeting was a milestone celebration as members gathered in Houston, Texas, for the 50th Annual Meeting of our region. This special anniversary brought together plant production professionals, researchers, educators, students, and industry leaders to celebrate five decades of sharing knowledge, building relationships, and advancing the science and practice of plant production. The energy, camaraderie, and commitment to the IPPS mission of “Seek and Share” made this year’s meeting a memorable occasion and a wonderful reminder of the strength of our professional community.

Educational tours offered attendees a firsthand look at the diversity and innovation of the Houston-area horticulture industry. Visits to local production facilities, gardens, and green industry operations provided opportunities to exchange ideas, explore new techniques, and learn from the people putting research and experience into practice every day. These behind-the-scenes experiences are a hallmark of IPPS meetings, connecting classroom concepts with real-world applications and sparking conversations that continue long after the buses return.

The educational program delivered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of plant production. One highlight was the LEAP project demonstrations, showcasing emerging technologies and practical approaches to improving labor efficiency, automation, and sustainability in nursery production. Through presentations, demonstrations, and conversations with fellow professionals, attendees explored how research and innovation can help operations remain productive and competitive. The program also reinforced the importance of sharing successes, asking questions, and learning from one another across all areas of the industry.

A tremendous thank-you goes to everyone who contributed to the success of this landmark meeting, from our speakers, tour hosts, sponsors, volunteers, and organizers to every member who participated. The silent and live auctions were especially successful, raising more than $10,000 to support the IPPS Southern Region Education Endowment and its ongoing commitment to scholarships, student research, and educational opportunities for the next generation of horticulture professionals. As we celebrate 50 years of learning and collaboration, we look forward to building on this legacy and continuing to grow together. Here’s to the next 50 years of seeking, sharing, and strengthening our industry!