Plant Trials

Captivating Perennials — Part 2

This article is part 2 of my evaluation of current and new perennials in the 2020 summer trials that demonstrated exceptional flower power and were distinctive and eye catching. Many of the varieties are currently... more »

Costa Farms Wraps Up Season Premiere with Virtual Highlights

Costa Farms has wrapped up its 2021 Season Premiere. For those unable to attend, the organization has set up a website to offer the opportunity to experience as much as possibly virtually. Click here to... more »

Captivating Perennials

This spring is my 50th year in the horticultural industry. To gain perspective of the significant and extraordinary breeding, trialing, and introduction of new perennial genera and species that have been added to the market... more »

Breeders Prepping for CAST 2021

Preparations for the 2021 California Summer Trials (formerly California Spring Trials) are underway as the summer trade event is set to go from Wednesday, June 23 through Sunday, June 27, 2021. The horticulture industry is excited to safely get... more »

Vibrant and Resilient Deco Containers

Last month, I highlighted the window box planters in the Mast Young Plants 2020 trial. This month I am focusing on the breeder recipe deco containers that I saw in the trial during my August... more »

Poinsettia Trials Provide Memorable Additions to the Industry

By the time you read this, your poinsettias will be long gone and 2020 will be in the rearview mirrror. What a year it was — it brought unprecedented challenges of COVID-19 with all of... more »

Novelty Window Box Planters

I have been attending the Mast Young Plants annual trial in Michigan for over 15 years and have incorporated many of their new varieties in my trial articles. This is an extensive trial incorporating trials... more »

Plantpeddler Releases Results from 2020 Poinsettia Variety Day

Plantpeddler in Cresco, Iowa, recently conducted a trial of 144 commercial and pre-release poinsettia varieties. The grower's Variety Day was hosted on Dec. 3, for growers, poinsettia breeders and broker representatives. The trial was produced... more »