Planted Earth’s fifth annual Winter Conference brought more than 100 landscape architects, designers, and horticulture professionals to Turf Valley Resort—signaling how quickly this once internal training has evolved into a key industry touchpoint.
Centered on Landscaping 2.0: Rooted in Innovation, the event explored how technology is reshaping the way landscapes are designed and delivered. From AI-driven design tools and drone applications to smart irrigation and integrated planning, sessions focused on building more efficient, responsive, and sustainable outdoor environments.
With continuing education credits available through the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD), the conference balanced technical learning with meaningful connection—creating space for professionals across sectors to exchange ideas ahead of the busy season.
As Planted Earth continues to expand its programming, the event reflects a broader shift: a more connected, collaborative industry—one that’s embracing innovation not just in tools, but in how professionals learn and grow together.
At California Spring Trials 2026, Plant Development Services is redefining garden color with a bold new direction: rich, moody blooms paired with luminous metallic foliage.
This year’s introductions lean into contrast—deep magentas, radiant corals, silvery textures, and golden tones—designed to capture attention at retail while delivering the performance growers expect. “Strong color stops shoppers in their tracks,” says Kip McConnell, vice president of business development.
Standouts include Autumn Velvet, a reblooming azalea with saturated magenta hues, and Li’l Magenta Buddleia, a compact, pollinator-friendly option with season-long impact. The Early Surprise Camellia pushes seasonal boundaries with late-summer blooms, while Silver Caress Mahonia and Golden Sky Ilex introduce texture and structure through metallic foliage.
Together, these introductions reflect a broader shift: plants that don’t just perform in the landscape—but actively drive consumer engagement and elevate design with bold, dimensional color.
Coastal Source is expanding the role of outdoor audio with the introduction of its Razor Backlight accessory—an elegant addition that transforms speakers into multifunctional design elements. Designed for the Razor 200 and 300 Series, the new accessory integrates soft, ambient lighting directly into the speaker system. Mounted behind the fixture, it creates a subtle halo effect that enhances patios, decks, and gathering spaces without disrupting the Razor line’s clean, low-profile aesthetic.
The move reflects a broader shift toward streamlined, multipurpose installations. By combining high-performance audio with warm 3,000K illumination, integrators can deliver both sound and atmosphere in a single, cohesive solution—reducing complexity while expanding creative possibilities. Built from durable aluminum and engineered to withstand harsh environments, the Razor Backlight stays true to Coastal Source’s “Defy the Elements” standard. The result: fewer components, cleaner installs, and outdoor spaces that feel as intentional as they sound.
Project EverGreen is celebrating 20 years of its GreenCare for Troops program—a milestone that highlights the power of the green industry to serve beyond the landscape. Since 2006, the initiative has mobilized more than 15,000 professionals to provide free lawn, landscape, and snow services to military families during deployment. The result: over $20 million in donated services and 20,000 families supported nationwide.
In 2026, the program is expanding its reach. Disabled veterans in select states will now be eligible for services, alongside the addition of irrigation maintenance and seasonal system care.
But the impact goes deeper than maintenance. For families, it provides stability during uncertain times. For companies, it strengthens culture and community connection. As Project EverGreen continues to grow, the mission remains clear: support those who serve by caring for the spaces they call home.
As the tile and stone industry gathered in Las Vegas, Coverings 2026 also put a spotlight on the people shaping its future. This year’s announcement of 22 award honorees highlights not just excellence—but the growing importance of leadership, collaboration, and innovation across every sector of the industry.
At the heart of the recognition are the Coverings Rock Stars, an emerging leader program celebrating 18 rising professionals from across design, installation, manufacturing, and beyond. These individuals represent the next generation—those driving progress through fresh ideas, stronger networks, and a commitment to elevating industry standards.
Equally notable is the continued momentum behind the Coverings Champions program, now in its second year. Designed to honor those who actively invest in the industry’s growth, the program underscores a key shift: success today is not just about individual achievement, but about contributing to a larger, connected community.
This year’s People’s Choice Award went to Jennifer Richinelli, recognized by her peers for long-standing contributions and dedication to advancing both the Coverings show and the broader tile and stone landscape. Her recognition reflects a deeper industry value—consistency, advocacy, and leadership over time.
Together, these awards signal where the industry is headed. Recognition is no longer siloed; it spans roles, disciplines, and experience levels. And as Coverings 2026 kicks off, it’s clear the future belongs to those who not only excel in their craft—but actively work to move the entire industry forward.