University of Guelph Trial Gardens: Plant Ratings

Image: Guelph trial gardens

Greenhouse growers, seed companies and landscapers use the trial garden's results to choose species that will be successful in and around South-Western Ontario. The facility also offers researchers the opportunity to examine new uses for old plants.

The garden also participates in the All-American Selections bedding plant trial. The program was established in 1932 to promote new seed varieties with superior garden performance. At the end of the season a panel of judges submit their rating scores and the winner is allowed to advertise this distinction on their packaging.

It's a tradition to have the public vote on their favourite plants during the annual open house of the Guelph Trial Gardens. It is an opportunity to find out what type and colour the public is attracted to.

Here were the top picks by visitors to previous trials:






Popular trial entries compiled from voting results by the public and the industry at open houses in Milton and Guelph.

(Note: Voting took place during the mid to late August period in 2013)

Genus

Series

Colour

Source/ Breeder

Popular Ranking

Echinacea

Sombrero

Salsa Red

Ball Horticulture

1

Capsicum (Ornamental)

Dwarf

 

AAS

2

Gomphrena

Pinball

Purple

Sakata

3

Amaranthus

Elephant

Head

Genesis

4

Eustoma

Arena II

Blue Flash

American Takii

5

Petunia

Flash Mob

Bluerific

Burpee H.G.

6

Rudbeckia

Cappuccino

 

William Dam Seed

7

Verbena

Royale

Iced Cherry

Proven Winners

8

Cosmos

Cupped White

to Pink

AAS

9

Delphinium

Pacific

Formula Mix

Benary

10