Welby Gardens hosted its 28th annual flower trial event on August 7, 2019. Approximately 450 people--breeders, landscape professionals, growers, independent garden centers, and more—attended to evaluate just around 950 plants.

“We always do our trials the day after the Colorado State University outdoor trials because together we give our industry a great look at how the plant material will do in our high light and arid climate, both from a grower standpoint and in the garden,” explains Mandy Gerace, Program Manager at Welby Gardens. “Trialing gives us the opportunity to see how well the varieties will perform and it allows our customers, vendors and colleagues to voice their opinion on what they like the best.  This is not only great for helping us decide what to carry next season, but it also is a great marker for the breeders too.”

In plant trials, Welby Gardens looks at a number of criteria, but the most important is plant health and habit. They prefer a full but tight habit with lots of blooms. After the California Spring Trails (CAST), Welby tests new varieties from breeders to judge how the plants perform in Colorado’s intense sun and lack of humidity. 

The theme of this year’s event was “Totally 80s.” The Welby Gardens team expanded on a fun theme used at ProGreen EXPO, with 80s memorabilia, Trapper-Keeper-themed signage for vendors, and 1980s-style clothing on staff.