US: "The process of creating a display for the California Spring Trials"

The process of transforming a California Spring Trials display into a real exhibit begins months in advance. It is fascinating how an idea that starts as a pipe dream evolves into a design on paper by a marketing team and eventually comes to life in full color. Marion Meesenburg, Darwin Perennials' Marketing Specialist explains.

Darwin Perennials begins considering CAST in September, following its product advancement meeting in August, where it names and creates a story about new plants. CAST provides the perfect setting to focus on new varieties and set the stage to showcase the best plant stories, highlighting the benefits offered to customers.

© Darwin Perennials

For example, the Phlox Candy Cloud Series is a new, remarkable Phlox that blooms after P. divaricata but before Salvia nemorosa, offering show-stopping color. The challenge was how to display show-stopping color from afar, leading to the idea of a Phlox Waterfall.

The decision was made to call the entire display the Spring Showcase, as it included other new Spring introductions around the stunning waterfall design, such as the Erysimum Brightside Series and Geranium Purple Glow. Some 2024 introductions were also included, such as the Saxifraga Marto Series and Phlox Spring Splash Series, which blooms after P. subulata and before P. divaricata. The key takeaway is that benches can remain full and colorful from early Spring through late Spring.

© Darwin Perennials

The new introductions featured color breakthroughs for Penstemon Rock Candy – Coral and Pink Improved (compact Penstemon), Penstemon Mountain Treats Series (medium-sized), and Penstemon Summit Sweets Series (tall but very manageable at retail).

The concept of "Candy for hummingbirds" inspired a candy shop display for customers and hummingbirds alike. For those looking to add plants that attract hummingbirds to their assortment, the new Penstemon was a hit with both hummingbirds and customers.

© Darwin Perennials

The other two displays showcased new sun and shade varieties. Standouts included Rudbeckia Suntacular and Brunnera Frost King. More information about all the new varieties is available online.