California Summer Trials Sneak Peek – Part 1
After taking one year off in 2020, the industry’s must-attend new variety event is back with new summer dates. The 2021 California Summer Trials (formerly known as the California Spring Trials), will be taking place June 23-27 in various locations along the coast.
I don’t know about you, but I am so ready to travel, admire new varieties up close and personal, and chat with industry colleagues! It has been too long.
I know many of you have been lucky enough to get a glimpse into new introductions by visiting local regional trials, but there is something really special about CAST. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind event. While it can be exhausting and overwhelming, it is also very exhilarating, educational and eye opening. Not only do we get to learn about new varieties for next season, but we also discover unique marketing concepts and consumer trends.
That being said, will I see you there? Keep in mind, due to COVID-19 concerns, appointments are absolutely required. So plan accordingly! Don’t hesitate, though. The event begins in just about two months, which will be here before we know it.
In the meantime, check out this sneak peek into varieties that will be on display during CAST. This is just Part 1; I’ll have even more sneak peeks for you in the coming weeks!
— Jasmina
Petunia ‘Headliner Enchanted Sky’
Selecta One
The Sky family of petunias continues to expand in 2022 with an exciting new pattern. Enchanted Sky features both a hazy white star and a sky pattern backed in a cheery pink flower color. The Headliner series is known for its mounded, medium-vigor habit perfect for impactful hanging baskets.
Lobelia Hot+ Series
Westhoff
The new Hot+ series of lobelia builds on the reputation for heat tolerance by the original Hot series. In addition to heat tolerance and tidy, mounding habits, the new Hot+ series offers 30% larger flowers, making a great show at retail. six colors are available; Pretty Heaven is pictured.
Marigold Endurance Series
Syngenta Flowers
The next generation in triploid breeding, Endurance brings together the best of F1 African and French marigolds. Varieties have extra-large double flowers on a compact habit. Exceptionally quick finishing allows for a nearly African-sized flower with nearly French marigold timing.
Rex Begonia ‘Bewitched Night Owl’
Green Fuse Botanicals
The latest addition to the retail favorite Bewitched series is Night Owl. Clean, crisp color contrast accompanies the aggressive Bewitched behavior growers have come to love. It is perfect for a shady spot on the porch or all year long indoors.
Flower Kale Crystal Series
American Takii
Crystal is a new series with two introductory colors: Red and Snow. They have glossy leaves, which offer a rich color. ‘Crystal Red’ has a vibrant red center, while ‘Crystal Snow’ has a delicate pink center surrounded by white. Vigorous plants are perfect for fall and early winter gardens.
Kalanchoe Deck’d Out Series
Dümmen Orange
Deck’d Out kalanchoe is the newest series for easy outdoor performance. As the name suggests, these varieties are designed for easy container performance on decks and patios, providing months of vibrant color on low-water, easy-to-maintain, pollinator-friendly plants.
Video Library 
