EHR 101 Report spotlights new genetics and key trends for 2027 crop planning

EHR has released its 2026 EHR 101 New Varieties Report, an annual guide highlighting more than 50 new and improved plant introductions selected for retail appeal, production efficiency, performance and availability.

Now in its 22nd year, the report narrows hundreds of annuals, tropicals, foliage selections and program-ready crops into a shortlist identified by the EHR team during spring trial season. According to EHR, featured varieties are selected with growers and retailers in mind, emphasizing retail pull, production efficiency, landscape and container performance, and overall program value.

The 2026 edition includes introductions such as the expanded Firefly petunia collection and Bloomin’ Easy’s Solar Sisters rudbeckia. The report also highlights trends expected to influence 2027 planning, including petite plant series for small-space gardening, sun-tolerant foliage, new color combinations, improved heat performance and larger-scale varieties suited for containers and landscapes.

“Growers and retailers are evaluating hundreds of new introductions every year, and each one has to be considered through the lens of program fit, production efficiency, retail appeal, and profit potential,” said Melanie Byrne, vice president of operations at EHR. Byrne said the report is designed to help customers identify varieties with strong commercial potential and support program planning.

First published in 2004, the EHR 101 New Varieties Report combines EHR commentary, breeder insights and imagery to help growers, garden centers, landscapers and other industry professionals evaluate new plant introductions. The digital edition is available through EHR, while print copies are available upon request while supplies last.