The California Spring Trials, also known as CAST, are on! This week, breeders are presenting their products at different locations along the California coastline. Over the years, we have seen that increasingly more companies are presenting their varieties together with other breeders. This, in turn, resulted in a gradual decrease in the number of locations and also made it possible to make it a 4-day event instead of a 2-week event which it used to be in the past. Some companies already opened their doors yesterday (March 19) and others will start today. They will remain open till March 22 or 23.
So, what's on display? In total, more than 40 companies, including propagators and suppliers and spread over 11 locations, will be showcasing their new potential and existing varieties and concepts. Below already some novelties that are on display at the Ball Horticultural Company site in Santa Paula. They will open their doors today and remain open till March 23.
Several new introductions were on display for Selecta One North America. Breeding Manager Henk Dresselhuys (left) shows off MiniFamous Evo Double White from a new series of compact calibrachoa. Territory Manager Manda Vuksanaj-Coker (right) is a fan of the Dianthus Diadeur Pink Shades for its frilly double blooms and soft fragrance.
For 2025, Ball FloraPlant is launching its first interspecific geranium series called Solera. Product Manager Sarah Swofford-Hernandez is holding Solera Red, one of five fierce colors with sizzling summer performance. Solera is supplied out of Yecaflora, the company's new state-of-the-art farm in Mexico.
The new Dart Dianthus series from PanAmerican Seed helps growers save money. It requires no heat for production and fewer to no PGRs. Its naturally compact habit saves space in the greenhouse, too. Associate Product Manager Anne Dekker (left) is holding Dart White; Global Director of Sales Sean Valk (right) is holding Dart Purple.
The team from Morel was excited to share their new advancements in Cyclamen. Area Manager André Costa (left) is holding Petit Moulin, a double-flowered cyclamen with a shelf life of nearly 100 days! Global Sales and Marketing Manager Guy Schertzer holds a stunning Indiaka Midi in a new Red color.
Eager to see more pictures? Stay tuned!
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