"It has been said that gardeners never grow old because they always have something to look forward to. As spring 2025 is launched, the excitement in the air is palpable. The excitement surrounding new seasons and introductions never gets old", says Kevin Hurd, Proven Winners® Vice President of Product Development.
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"One of the many plants that is exciting in the coming year is Space Age™ Begonia Rex. And why not? There is a love for foliage! Foliage is always in color as it brightens the surroundings and gives a modern tone. If a garden or greenhouse is in transition during the season, one can always count on foliage to provide an interesting attribute!"
Space Age begonias are great examples of foliage interest, and there has been a lot of great feedback on them, he continues. "As a Rex begonia, it may be assumed that the plant will need coddling. That's not the case with Space Age, since breeders have developed a well-branched, vigorous product."
And stay tuned. There will be more colors down the road as production trials continue. "Begonias continue to see a resurgence in popularity and use because the breeding continues to get better! This has precipitated an expansion of all begonias because begonias are popular for foliage too. And it's an added bonus that begonias work great in dry shade, which can be a difficult area in the garden."
In addition to foliage, branching or layering is one of the most critical things looked for in the trial process. "Improved branching helps the grower and the retailer because it helps fill the pot and gives a better presentation."
According to Hurd, Aromagica® Heliotropium is a great example of improved branching. Good branching provides more opportunities for flowering on the plant, whether in a pot on the bench or at the home of the end consumer. The more opportunity for flowering helps blooms build on each other and buries their dead without the need for deadheading.
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