Higher Attendance for CAST 2026, and Dates Set for 2027
The California Spring Trials 2026 (L) and 2027 (R) logos and dates. | National Garden Bureau, CA Spring Trials
California Spring Trials (CAST) 2026 has concluded, with all nine host locations reporting an increase in attendance compared to the previous year. Spanning the growing regions of California’s Central Coast, CAST 2026 drew a great number of growers, brokers, retailers, landscape professionals, and horticulture enthusiasts eager to preview the newest plant introductions.
From Gilroy to Somis, attendees showed up to tour each of the locations, engage directly with breeders, and discover new and emerging varieties that will define the growing season of 2027.
Increased Attendance at All Nine Locations
Each of the nine participating host sites — spanning Gilroy, Salinas, Arroyo Grande, Santa Barbara, Santa Paula, and Somis — reported year-over-year increases in foot traffic and registered visitors. Organizers attribute the growth to a combination of factors, including expanded marketing campaigns, a unified registration system for all locations, a robust lineup of new plant introductions in core crops, and growing industry demand for in-person networking.
“This year’s California Spring Trials exceeded every expectation. Seeing all nine locations report attendance growth is a testament to the vitality of our industry and the extraordinary work of our breeders and growers. The enthusiasm we witnessed during our travels was infectious,” says Diane Blazek of National Garden Bureau.
“I care about my customers, and that’s the reason I attend CAST every year. I want them to feel confident in the plants they buy, so I’m always looking for improvements that will make their experience more enjoyable and more successful,” says Jared Hughes of Groovy Plants Ranch outside of Columbus, OH.
Additional attendee testimonials can be found on the California Spring Trials website.
Looking Ahead to California Spring Trials 2027 (CAST 2027)
With the completion and success of CAST 2026, participants have agreed on the dates for the 2027 event, April 6–9, 2027, which is a Tuesday–Friday schedule. Registration is not yet open, but updates will be shared when ready at caspringtrials.us.
Additionally, for those who missed the 2026 event, breeder summaries and trade media coverage are available online.
Subscribe to eNewsletter
