Trial Garden Report: Brilliant blooms in North Carolina
Bernadette Clark from JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University provided us with a trial garden report. Days during the reporting period were mostly hot and dry with full sun, and a few days were extreme in terms of heat. This region provides plenty of hurdles so top performers out of North Carolina are sensible choices for southern growers.
Clark shared that during the first months of the season, straw flowers in containers were the top performing variety (shown above). “Their colors and the novelty of the paper-like texture of the flowers made them popular,” she said.
Clark also commented that petunias, portulacas and celosias were ranked as the top three favorites from garden visitors so far this season. Petunias were favored for the bright, happy colors and new flower patterns, while celosias, particularly the Flamma series, were celebrated because of the “bright electric colors” and spiky flowers.
“Portulaca drew a lot of attention because of the constant presence of pollinators as well as the wide range of colors,” she said.
In terms of heat and drought tolerance in the trial garden, lantanas are strong performers with attractive colors and bicolor patterns. Clark said that both pollinators and visitors are enjoying the various lantana varieties.
Lantana varieties are strong performers and pollinator favorites.
When asked what her top pick for best flower color was, Clark said nemesia ‘Nesia Tangerine’ for its beautiful bicolor flower. “The red and orange tones are awesome!” she said.
Another notable performer so far is petunia ‘Supertunia Vista Bubblegum’ for it has brilliant pink flowers that cover the entire plant.
A WATCHFUL EYE
Even these beautiful blooms come with challenges, from pests and diseases to wildlife.
Thrips and fungal pathogens were reported but did not create widespread problems. On the other hand, animals were a larger issue than previous years.
“We are experiencing an explosion of rabbits. Their voracious appetites have been very challenging this season. Many plants that would normally be standouts by this time in the season still have not recovered from the rabbit foraging,” Clark explained.
Regardless of the challenges, JC Arboretum’s trial garden has produced some gems worth noting. We hope you enjoy them as much as us!
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