Growers, wholesalers and floral sales teams evaluated more than 250 field-grown cut-flower varieties during InFlora Cut Flowers’ fourth annual summer trials in Salinas, California.
The Aug. 11–12 event was hosted at Green Valley Floral and brought together genetics from Sakata, Evanthia, Danziger, PanAmerican Seed, Benary, Miyoshi and InFlora’s exclusive breeding portfolio. Breeder representatives were available to discuss crop performance, technical requirements and commercial applications.
For the mass-market floral supply chain, field trials provide an important bridge between a promising introduction and a variety that can perform reliably in production, distribution and consumer use.
Varieties evaluated under commercial conditions
The trial allowed attendees to compare hundreds of varieties growing in the same region and season. That side-by-side format helps growers assess stem length, uniformity, color, timing, productivity and suitability for different production systems.
Highlighted selections included Dahlia Dezign Deco Ivory White from InFlora Cut Flowers, Potomac Bright Orange snapdragon from PanAmerican Seed, Campagne Summer matricaria from Evanthia, Rumex Unicorn from Danziger, Verbena bonariensis Flair from Benary and Snapstar Champagne snapdragon from Sakata.
The assortment reflects growing demand for flowers that provide more than a familiar color. Buyers increasingly look for distinctive textures, bouquet fillers, seasonal palettes and varieties that can create a recognizable point of difference at retail.
Trials support better purchasing decisions
Commercial trials give breeders direct feedback while helping growers and sales teams understand how new genetics fit into existing programs. A visually compelling flower must also meet practical requirements involving yield, harvest timing, grading, packing, shipping and vase performance.
For wholesalers and mass-market buyers, early exposure to promising varieties supports longer-range program planning. It allows the supply chain to discuss projected availability, achievable volumes and potential retail uses before committing to major promotions.
The gathering also created an opportunity for different parts of the industry to exchange information in the field. InFlora said bringing the supply chain together among hundreds of varieties encourages new ideas and collaboration around market opportunities.
A broader assortment for future programs
The six highlighted products span focal flowers, line flowers and textural ingredients, making them relevant across mono-bunch, mixed bouquet and design-driven programs. Their commercial potential will depend on successful grower trials, sufficient production and clear positioning for buyers and consumers.
InFlora Cut Flowers connects growers with genetics, product forms, technical recommendations and supply-chain support for greenhouse, tunnel and field production. The organization said dates for its August 2027 trials will be announced later.
Sources: InFlora Cut Flowers release via Perishable News and InFlora Cut Flowers
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