The California Spring Trials (CAST) are
around the corner. Next month already, from March 23-27, breeders will present their newest varieties and are currently doing their utmost best to have them flowering on time.
This week-long event, held at various locations throughout California, is a launching ground for some of the newest plant varieties, signage and packaging products, and merchandising programs and concepts. In addition, many locations include PGR experiments, outdoor trialing, and technical information and help.
What to expect of this year's edition? Below, we listed important points one has to take into account when touring the west coast of the USA and the main differences compared to last year.
Most locations are open 8 am - 5 pm, but if you are interested in visiting any of the locations, it is recommended (and sometimes required) that you make a reservation.
More changes compared to last year's edition:
- Instead of six days, this year's trials event will be five days. (It is important to notice that the starting/closing date may vary from the official dates at some locations, click here to see the entire list of locations.)
- Terra Nova Nurseries moved to a new location; Pacific Plug & Liner in Watsonville.
- Floranova will no longer be at Green Fuse in Santa Paula. Syngenta acquired them last year, so they will be at their location in Gilroy.
- Westhoff/ PAC Elsner, T.O. Plastics and KOBA Horticultural Plastics will be presenting their varieties at Green Fuse in Santa Paula.
- As a result, Beekenkamp and Plug Connection will be the only company present at Floricultura in Salinas.
Never been to the CAST? Here is an impression; our photo report of 2018.
Is your company also participating in the California Spring Trials and would you like to put one of your products in the spotlight? Feel free to send us an email.
There is no fee to participate, but the trials are not open to the general public (only for businesses and their employees associated with the horticulture industry) and transportation and logistics are the responsibility of the attendee.