Boerner Botanical trial gardens showing annuals being grown in 2013
Last year, as a new master gardener, I volunteered to help at the Boerner Botanical Garden, a place I have long admired. Visiting once a week, I did my bloom check as directed and then walked around the grounds, enjoying the flowers and looking for new plants that might do well in my own garden. I often viewed and was very impressed by the trial gardens being monitored by the horticulturists on staff.
Research
Began in 1950, the trial garden at Boerner Botanical is an official test site for All America Rose selections (AARS), one of only 23 in the United States. A seed exchange program followed in 1965 and in 1967, Boerner was also approved to conduct All-America Selections (AAS) flower trials. This means that seeds from all over the country are grown here and rated by judges for their flower and foliage quality, durability and other characteristics. There are currently about 400 varieties of roses and flowers undergoing trial and are accessible for public viewing.
Results from these tests help determine which new plant introductions receive the coveted “All American Selections” title. In addition to these trials, newly available seeds provided by wholesale and retail seed companies are tested for regional success. Since the trial garden is open to the public, you can view the ongoing trials for yourself and see which upcoming annuals, perennials and roses are being evaluated. As you may know, the AAS title signifies quality seeds and plants and Boerner Botanical Gardens helps to pick the winners!
Today the formal trials are planted, carefully maintained and evaluated within a deer-proof fenced enclosure. In addition, ornamental shrubs and trees are demonstrated and bulb beds are planted with the latest in exquisite spring flowers in the park-like area adjacent to the fenced trials! I find it a beautiful place to visit and very inspiring.
Some of the Winners for 2013 are listed below and more information is available at http://wimastergardener.org/?q=AAS2014
- AAS Bedding Plant Award Winner: Petunia ‘African Sunset’ F1
- AAS Bedding Plant Award Winner: Gaura ‘Sparkle White’
- AAS Vegetable Award Winner: Bean ‘Mascotte’
- AAS Vegetable Award Winner: Pepper ‘Mama Mia Giallo’ F1
- AAS Vegetable Award Winner: Tomato ‘Chef’s Choice Orange’ F1
- AAS Vegetable Award Winner: Tomato ‘Fantastico’ F1
- AAS Flower Award Winner: Sunflower ‘Suntastic’ F1
- AAS Vegetable Award Winner: Cucumber ‘Pick A Bushel’ F1
- AAS Vegetable Award Winner: Pumpkin ‘Cinderella’s Carriage’ F1