This year the trials team at the Dallas Arboretum did plantings in both spring and summer to observe whether or not the time of establishment affected the plants’ survival rate.

Trial managers say they are seeing a growing trend in the number of annual flowers that are bred for containers, which is likely due to the rise in consumer demand for container annuals.

Close to 1,000 cultivars were tested in 2022 from 32 companies including firms from the U.S., Germany, The Netherlands, Israel, Thailand, the Czech Republic, and Japan.

Keeping plants watered was a challenge in an unusually dry year, but in spite this, some outstanding plants emerged from the trials.

Despite early hot weather and two major rainfall events, a number of edibles, caladiums, and other plants led the way at the JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University.

The University of Tennessee Gardens in Jackson trialed more than 225 varieties of annuals, perennials, vegetables, and herbs in 2022.

The growing season received average heat and precipitation, with breezy conditions up until August when it became very still and humid with warm nighttime temperatures.

While some standards in begonias and petunias performed well, surprises included an Alstroemeria, and a new marigold series.

From beautiful colors to vigorous flowers, here were 32 varieties that stood out at the 2022 plant trials in the Rocky Mountain state.

Deer and weed presented some challenges, but the growing team came away inspired with ideas for its new cut flower program.

Impatiens, begonias, and others benefited from ideal weather conditions, with both trial managers and open house attendees flagging their favorites.

Check out some of the top performers from this Top 100 grower’s trial garden in Alabama.

Hot and dry weather followed by heavy rains stressed plants, but as a trial garden that evaluates the last plant standing, these extreme weather conditions just help the trial team achieve its mission.