Ever wondered how plants like Verbena ‘Homestead Purple’ or Heuchera ‘Crème Brulee’ were discovered? How long does it take a new plant to make it to a retail garden center near you so that you can buy one? These questions and more are explored in a new learning series for Extension Master Gardeners, sponsored by The National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture (NICH)! This series, “Where Plants Come From,” follows new plant introductions from the stage of discovery through their arrival in the marketplace. During four webinars in October, EMGs can learn from the scientists, horticulturists, and green industry professionals who shepherd this journey for new plant introductions, including ornamentals and vegetables. This informative series will deepen EMG knowledge of and appreciation for the time, process, and resources that go into the making of a new plant. Local EMG coordinators are also welcome to host watch parties for EMGs. You don’t want to miss this excellent continuing education opportunity!
- October 7, 2025
The Bloom Hunt: Ways New Plants are Discovered
With Tony Avent, Plant Delights Nursery & Patrick Griffith, Montgomery Botanic Garden - October 14, 2025
The Bloom Lab: Creating Cultivars for Every Backyard
With Hans Hansen, Proven Winners & Julie Dawson, University of Wisconsin Madison - October 21, 2025
Putting Plants to the Test: Trialing and Evaluation
With Diane Blazek, National Garden Bureau & Pam Bennett, Ohio State University - October 28, 2025
Green Appeal: Marketing New Garden Plants
With Katie Dubow, Garden Media & Don Labonte, Treasure Island Sweet Potatoes
Time: all webinars are offered at 3 pm Eastern/2 pm Central/1 pm Mountain/12 pm Pacific Time
This webinar series is free, but by registration only. Extension Master Gardeners are asked to register for the four-part series (no worries if you need to miss a session!). Registration closes September 15, 2025, or when the classes are full. An access link for the webinar will be sent to the email address that is listed in your registration.
Use this registration link to get your tickets now!
