From the California Pack Trials

Posted by George

Hello from California! - Every year for about 9 days, plant companies from all over the world gather along the west coast of California to show off their varieties. At about 22 locations from San Diego to San Jose, 40+ different displays have been set up for growers, brokers, & retailers to see thousands of beautiful plants including new varieties for the next year (2010). We have been coming here for years to learn about and photograph the many plants the world's greatest breeders have to offer. Many of these plants will grace the benches at Tellys some day so that you can see for yourself what they have to offer. Following are some sneak peaks at some of the of the new plants we may be offering in 2010!

Calibrachoa 'Minifamous Double Amethyst'. There are a slew of new calibrachoa out there but this one offers a great color in a double flower form. Like the rest of the 'Minifamous' series, the self-cleaning flowers are held well above the foliage. This one has an extra bit of sheen to
its petals.

Petunia 'Pretty Much Picasso'. A new petunia plant that is interesting to say the least. This distinctive flower is rose with a green picotee edge. I couldn't believe it either but I photographed it just to prove it exists. This isn't for everyone but it will certainly become a conversation piece for gardeners everywhere.

Euphorbia 'Breathless Blush'. This type of euphorbia has become extremely popular the last few years and this one will surely become a favorite. It is similar to 'Diamond Frost' but with flowers "blushed" pink and foliage accented by a dark purplish center. If I had to pick one exceptional new plant for 2010, this is it!

Petunia 'Potunia Cappaccino'. This is one of many wild and crazy petunias that will be available in 2010. These almost beige flowers are accented by a center suffused with brown and purple. Some gardeners will find this color combination priceless while others (I'm sure) will find it useless. I can't wait for you to see this in real life!

Cordyline 'Renegade'. This is the darkest Cordyline we have yet to offer. The nearly black leaves provide a perfect focal point in containers or beds. It prefers sun or part sun and grows with very little maintenance. Try this one with gold foliage!

Well, this is my last day at the pack trials, & I have to get back on the road. There are plenty more exciting new finds I can't wait to share with you! I'll try to get some more "sneak peels" posted when I get back to Troy, over the weekend . . .