Highlights From Raker-Roberta’s 2026 Plant Trials on the Michigan Garden Plant Tour
September 2, 2026 One of the most expansive stops on the Michigan Garden Plant Tour – a two-week long coordinated open house of leading young plant producers and Michigan State University – is Raker-Roberta’s Young Plants in Litchfield. The trial gardens feature more than 8 acres of 100,000-plus plants in raised beds, hanging baskets, and containers.
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Along with sponsored areas featuring the latest offerings from breeder sponsors, Raker-Roberta’s also features several comparison trials. This year’s row trials included osteospermum, dianthus, hot peppers (in the National Garden Bureau’s 2026 “Year of” program), sedum (also in the NGB’s 2026 “Year of”), gomphrena, mixed perennial assortments, and begonia (fibrous and interspecific).
A specialty cut flower trial also compares shade vs. non-shade lisianthus production to evaluate differences in stem length, uniformity, and overall cut quality. This study aims to provide growers with clear guidance on light management for premium stems.
Watch for more extensive results from the Raker-Roberta’s trials later this year. In the meantime, check out the slideshow above for a closer look at some of the highlights. You can also find coverage of other stops on the 2026 Michigan Garden Plant Tour here.
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