SANTA PAULA, CA — A special plastic mat, combined with disinfectants, can serve as the first line of defense against plant diseases in nurseries, where young plants are especially vulnerable. Such a simple measure could prevent millions of dollars in losses.
California’s nursery sector is massive. In 2019, horticulture statewide — which includes nurseries and flowers — generated more than $2.6 billion. Of that total, nursery products accounted for about $831 million, according to UC Agriculture and Natural Resources’ California Horticulture Data report. In San Diego County alone, the industry produces more than $1.2 billion annually, making it one of the state’s leading agricultural drivers.
These figures were highlighted during the 2025 Nursery Conference, organized by the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR).
“This conference allows us to share the results of our research with the industry and listen directly to growers’ needs,” said UC ANR researcher Gerry Spinelli.
In addition to presentations, the event featured greenhouse tours and one-on-one consultations with producers.
“Our goal is to communicate science in plain language, focused on the real problems farmers face today,” said Ana María Pastrana, UC ANR plant pathology advisor for Imperial, Riverside and San Diego counties.
Johanna del Castillo, a UC ANR plant pathology specialist, received an award from the Plant California Alliance recognizing her career and commitment to bringing science closer to agricultural communities.
Researcher Kosana Suvokarev also presented, explaining how evapotranspiration can be applied in greenhouses to achieve more efficient irrigation.
“Data and experiments only make sense when growers can apply them right away in their nursery,” Suvokarev said.
Outside the venue, UC ANR researchers demonstrated projects, while student research posters were displayed indoors.
For Manolo Rodríguez, a nursery specialist from Central California, the fact that the conference was held in Spanish was essential.
“Spanish is my first language, and this helps me share new ideas with workers,” Rodríguez said. He was particularly interested in learning about the latest recycling and plant disease management protocols.
Another attendee, Vicente Godfrey, an environmental specialist from San Bernardino, said events like this are critical.
“There are always new challenges and new information,” Godfrey said. “We need to stay updated to better serve our industries and communities.”
The conference concluded with tours of Ventura County nurseries, where participants saw recommended practices in action. Researchers and growers shared solutions, addressed specific concerns and adapted scientific research to meet the practical needs of the field.
UC ANR specialists offer technical advice, training and site visits for nurseries and greenhouses across the state. Find your local office at https://ucanr.edu.