Highlights from 2025 Field Trials: North Dakota State University
(Information provided by Barbara Laschkewitsch, Research Specialist)
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North Dakota State University’s (NDSU) 2025 trial season brought mostly typical weather, with a slightly wetter start than usual. That extra early-season moisture showed up as fungal leaf spotting on zinnias, gomphrena, and marigolds — an issue the team doesn’t normally encounter.
In total, NDSU trialed approximately 250 annual varieties this year, with the majority growing in full sun.
This year also marked the 20th anniversary of the gardens at their current location. The yearly Garden Day in July doubled as a celebration, with speakers, added activities for adults and kids, and a jazz band performance to close out the evening, drawing an excellent turnout. As part of the festivities, visitors participated in the annual “flag your two favorite sun annuals” activity. Eustoma Echo Mix took first place with 26 flags, followed by Celosia Burning Embers with 21 flags.
Eustoma Echo Mix with 26 flags. | Barbara Laschkewitsch, NDSU
Celosia Burning Embers with 21 flags. | Barbara Laschkewitsch, NDSU
The biggest ongoing challenge isn’t weather-related, but wildlife. An increased population of thirteen-lined ground squirrels has been tunneling into beds and eating flowers. The team is still working on how best to manage the problem, as damage from the squirrels continues to affect portions of the display.
Top-Rated and Best-Performing Varieties for 2025
- Celosia Celosia plumosa Burning Embers
- Petunia Petunia x hybrida Dekko Maxx Pink
- Petunia Petunia x hybrida Tickled Pink
- Verbena Verbena bonariensis Vanity
For more 2025 field trials information and variety highlights, click here.
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