The 2024 growing season began with dry, hot conditions, creating a tough start for many of our trial plants. As summer progressed, rainfall increased, and the combination of heat and humidity tested the plants’ resilience.
This year, we evaluated approximately 250 plant varieties. These were tested in various conditions: some in full sun, others in shaded areas, and a number in containers.
Our trials followed a similar structure to previous years, but with a distinctive approach. Unlike traditional rows, we grow plants in landscape beds, providing a more natural, botanical garden setting. This allows us to assess how plants perform in their final, more mature form.
The primary challenge this year was the weather. The early heat persisted throughout the summer, and nighttime temperatures remained warm. The added rainfall created tough growing conditions, but many plants still thrived.
Top Performing Plants of the Year
Despite the challenging weather, several plant varieties stood out for their exceptional performance:
Ageratum ‘Monarch Magic’ (Ball Seed): This variety displayed a compact growth habit while spreading out effectively. It was a consistent bloomer and attracted numerous butterflies.
Dianthus interspecific ‘Jolt Pink Magic’ (PanAmerican Seed): Although dianthus is usually a cool-season annual, this variety performed exceptionally well through the heat of summer, constantly drawing butterflies.
Coreopsis ‘Uptick Gold’ (Darwin Perennials): This plant resisted mildew and produced an abundance of blooms all season long.
Vinca Titan-ium series (PanAmerican Seed): Known for its outstanding flowering, this vinca was also resistant to Phytophthora and maintained a perfect rating throughout the summer.
Hydrangea ‘Limelight Prime’ (Proven Winners): This long-blooming, sturdy hydrangea was a standout, ranking as the second most popular plant among trial participants.
Rose of Sharon ‘Paraplu Violet’: A top performer with a heavy bloom count, this variety attracted bees and butterflies. It was also ranked #7 in the Industry’s Choice list of trial plants.
Despite a tough start, many plants in this year’s trials showed impressive resilience, proving their ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
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