The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is not just about rodeos and livestock—it’s also a platform for young horticulturists from across Texas to showcase their skills. This year, the Bellville FFA Nursery/Landscape team had a strong showing, placing second overall. The team consisted of Matthew Wybro, James Haisler, Layne Malinowski and Levi Malinowski. All four team members ranked in the top 10 individually.
Matthew Wybro led the team, earning the title of high individual and a $10,000 scholarship. James Haisler placed fourth, while Layne Malinowski and Levi Malinowski finished seventh and ninth, respectively.
The Nursery/Landscape Competition brings together students from FFA and 4-H clubs in Texas. They design, build, and present nursery and landscape projects, including garden layouts, irrigation systems, and hardscaping features like patios and walkways. Participants spend weeks or months planning their projects. Their hard work resulted in setups that impressed both judges and attendees, showcasing not only technical skill but also a commitment to sustainable landscaping.
Judging is intense and focuses on several factors:
- Design & Creativity: The originality and appeal of the project.
- Plant Selection & Health: The choice and condition of plants.
- Technical Skill: The quality of construction and adherence to industry standards.
- Documentation & Presentation: The clarity of the design process and materials.
- Overall Maintenance: The upkeep of displays throughout the event.
Congratulations to the Bellville FFA Nursery/Landscape team!
