A Closer Look at Green Legacy’s Trial Gardens

By Brian D. Sparks|August 25, 2025

Green Legacy, an Orient, OH-based growing operation founded by Dan VanWingerden in 2021, is one of many growers conducting plant field trials this year. However, what makes these trials unique – other than the fact that the trials gardens just opened up this year – is their focus on the unique needs of the landscaping community.

1 of 13

1 of 13

Green Legacy's trials were a place where breeders, landscapers, and growers could come together to evaluate and experience cutting-edge annuals.All photos: Brian Sparks
2 of 13

The Trial Garden at Green Legacy is a collaborative initiative between Green Legacy and EMI.
3 of 13

The trials featured 10 raised beds designed by EMI and sponsored by Profile Products’ controlled release fertilizer.
4 of 13

There were eight show beds, including a Proven Winners EZ Scape display.
5 of 13

Zinnia 'Profusion Red Yellow Bicolor' (Sakata)
6 of 13

Petunia hybrid 'Tea Blue Vein Imp' (Beekenkamp Plants)
7 of 13

Petunia hybrid 'Supertunia Vista Bubblegum' (Proven Winners)
8 of 13

New Guinea Impatiens 'Sol Luna Prime Light Salmon' (Danziger)
9 of 13

Lantana 'Luscious Basket Tangeglow' (Proven Winners)
10 of 13

Lantana 'Bandolista Pink Lemonberry' (Syngenta Flowers)
11 of 13

Dahlia 'Venti Fireburst' (Selecta)
12 of 13

Dahlia 'Cherie Radiant Rose' (Danziger)
13 of 13

Coleus 'Premium Sun Sweet Paprika' (PanAmerican Seed)

The Trial Garden at Green Legacy, a collaborative initiative between Green Legacy and EMI, is designed to elevate the future of landscape design across the Midwest. Built on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, this initiative serves as a dynamic showcase of cutting-edge plant varieties and landscape solutions tailored to the Midwest region’s unique climate and conditions. It’s also a place where breeders, landscapers, and growers can come together to evaluate and experience cutting-edge annuals.

The 1-acre trial garden features eight show beds, including a Proven Winners EZ Scape display; 10 raised beds designed by EMI and sponsored by Profile Products’ controlled release fertilizer; and 27 trial beds consisting of contributions from more than 14 breeders.

You can learn more about Green Legacy in an upcoming cover story in Greenhouse Grower. For now, I attended Green Legacy’s opening on Aug. 15. Check out the slideshow above for a few of the highlights.