The Flower Trials is an inspirational event where 'plants meet people.' "It was nice to talk to the salespeople, but also for the salespeople to talk to buyers and have that real, in-person connection that many have been unable to experience in the past two years," says Michael Perry known as Mr. Plant Geek.
Cosmos Apollo by Floranova
"And I see my role as giving home gardeners a sneaky peek into this wonderful world of plants." His Instagram page is full of posts about the Flower Trials, as he filmed two Reels each day @mr_plantgeek
In addition, Mr. Plant Geek launched the Fantasy Plant League on mrplantgeek.com, where real home gardeners had the chance to vote on the best of the items shown at the Flower Trials 2022 trade event.
Top six trends by Mr. Plant Geek:
Hide the ground, fill the pot
These are plants where customers can work out how many plants they need for a certain area, which makes them more cost-effective. They can cover the ground by filling gaps quicker and easier, and they can beat the weeds, but they can also potentially be an alternative to a lawn, such as with the mini dianthus.
Petchoa Beautical by Sakata
The reimagining of the 80s
They've been adopted by breeders, redeveloped to be stronger, and in some cases, rebranded for a new generation to enjoy.
Antirrhinum Tall Twinny by Hem Genetics
Waterless gardening for all
It makes environmental sense to use less water when gardening, so how about a range of plants that can tolerate drought conditions? In cape daisies, there were plenty of options for cost-effective growing, both for the grower and the gardener.
Rock Garden Cactus Range by Kempen
Cottagecore and the wild effect
Cottagecore gardens can contain more free-form plants – in this sense, breeders don't have to grow compact plants to stay too neat.
Dahlia XXL Berry Blast by Dummen Orange
Made for containers
These plants can be used to dress balconies, in-between gardens, and also outdoor tabletop plants.
Container Inspiration at Kientzler
Unapologetic color and brightness
This section also includes some metallic-leaved plants, which are boosting the explosions of color.
Canna Cannova by Takii Europe
For more information:
Mr. Plant Geek
mrplantgeek.com