March 2022

Celebrating a Garden Classic — Lilac

The National Garden Bureau has declared 2022 as Year of the Lilac in the shrub category. This month we take a look at how this crop has evolved over the years and where it is headed in the future.

Culture Report: Vanessa Compact Bourdeux

The verbena series is the result of a decade-long breeding initiative to improve performance for both growers and consumers.

Growing Labor Pains

The controlled environment agriculture and horticulture industries are facing major labor challenges as the average age of a grower continues to increase. Learn what several professors have to say about this issue as they prepare their students for careers in the industry.

How Well Is Your Company Handling the Pandemic? 

Growers adjust to COVID-19 fallout to ensure they have the supplies they need to keep their businesses operating and customers satisfied. 

Take a Sneak Peek at CAST

After a couple of crazy COVID years, California Spring Trials (CAST) is set to return to its traditional springtime slot this month. Here is a sneak peek at some of the varieties that will be introduced.

Technically Speaking: Light and Temperature Responses of Bedding Plants

Annual bedding (garden) plants continues to be the largest floriculture crop segment each year. The reported wholesale sales of bedding plants was $1.58 billion, according to the USDA Floriculture Cro... more

The Pandemic Gardening Boom Is Just the Beginning

It’s no secret — plants are “in.” Plants are [finally] getting a portion of the spotlight they deserve in a world where screens and plastic dominate life. The disruption of the collective ever... more

Vaughn’s View: Colorful, Exciting, Distinctive Perennials

Perennial breeders continue to develop new introductions with outstanding characteristics and attributes. This is Part 1 of Vaughn’s 2021 Summer Trials Report on perennials.