US (MI): MSU Horticulture Garden’s 2017 trial results available
The 2017 MSU Trial Gardens. Photo by Daedre McGrath, MSU.
Plants were evaluated throughout the growing season based on vigor, uniformity and ornamental value of the flowers and foliage. The university also takes note of susceptibility to diseases and insects, and tolerance to changes in climatic conditions when appropriate. At the end of the season, they produce trial reports that summarize the six or seven separate evaluations completed throughout the summer. These results are provided to the participating companies and are available to the general public at our MSU Trial Gardens website.
Overall, 2017 was an excellent trialing season. With the help of the cooperative weather, all submitted varieties had a chance to show off their full potential. As a result, the displays were some of the showiest they’ve had in years. Plant varieties that receive full marks at every single evaluation end up in the “Best of the Best” category. These varieties are featured at numerous industry events, in horticultural publications and during presentation with local garden clubs.
Here is a selection of top performers in the following four categories: foliage plants, sun plants, shade plants and edibles.