There’s something in the air

In the previous articles in our FlowerTrials series on plant characteristics, we discussed new series (Part 1) and edible plants (Part 2). In this third and final installment, we take a closer look at uniformity, fragrant varieties, fast-growing plants, and varieties that flower early and/or for a long time. Of course, there is much more to tell and see, but for that we invite you to explore our photo report.

Uniformity
Uniformity within a series remains an important focus for breeders. A series in which plants are closely matched in growth habit, color intensity, flowering time, and size offers advantages throughout the entire supply chain. For growers, a uniform series enables more efficient crop planning and production. Because all plants are market-ready at the same time, less sorting is required and batches do not need to be grown on staggered schedules. Uniformity also makes it easier to combine different colors within a series, for example in mixed trays or combination pots. Retailers and consumers benefit as well. A uniform series creates a consistent presentation at the point of sale and gives consumers greater confidence. Plants within the same series develop in a similar way, without major differences in height, flowering time, or growth habit.

© Martijn Haas | FloralDaily.com
Petunia Capella Inked from Danziger features a distinctive color, strong flowers, and uniform growth

© Mirthe Walpot | FloralDaily.com
Salvia Salgoon from HilverdaFlorist is a uniform series with a new color introduction

© Mirthe Walpot | FloralDaily.com
Osteospermum Leonardo Sunshine from Lazzeri is a uniform series available in 17 colors

There’s something in the air
Fragrant varieties continue to be a strong trend. Breeders keep introducing new varieties with appealing scents as an added feature. For example, Morel’s Cyclamen Elixia combines an abundance of flowers with a pleasant fragrance. The same applies to Sweetie Raspberry from Dümmen Orange.

© Martijn Haas | FloralDaily.com
This fragrant potted freesia from Van Den Bos Flower Bulbs is available in five colors

© Martijn Haas | FloralDaily.com
Garden rose Bianca Knock Out from Meilland is one of the first pure white garden roses with fragrance

Early and long-flowering varieties
Early- and long-flowering plants also stand out. They are attractive not only to consumers but especially to growers. Early flowering means plants reach the market sooner, allowing for shorter production cycles or earlier sales opportunities. Long-flowering plants provide greater flexibility in marketing and ensure a longer period of color on retail shelves or in the garden. For growers, this means better production and sales scheduling, more control over planning, and an extended selling season. After all, the longer a plant flowers, the longer the sales window remains open—and that is ultimately what matters. Some plants also feature blooms that last significantly longer than average. For example, HibisQs from Graff Breeding produces flowers that remain open for three to five days, compared with the typical one-day lifespan of a hibiscus flower.

© Martijn Haas | FloralDaily.com
Mandevilla GP White Dark Leaf from Padana is an early-flowering variety, ideal for winter production, with pure white blooms and suitability for various pot sizes

© Mirthe Walpot | FloralDaily.com
At Graff Breeding, it all started with hibiscus. The company focuses on extending flower longevity. While hibiscus flowers traditionally lasted only one day, current varieties remain attractive for three to five days, with further improvements still underway.

© Martijn Haas | FloralDaily.com
Sundaville Verona Red from Suntory Flowers Europe is an early bloomer with an intense, colorfast red

© Martijn Haas | FloralDaily.com
Lavandula angustifolia Blue Max from Decock Plants is easy to grow and available early thanks to its early flowering. The variety also offers strong resistance to Botrytis.

Fast growth
Finally, rapid growth is another trait that is increasingly visible at FlowerTrials and highly valued by growers. Plants that develop quickly are ready for sale sooner, accelerating the production cycle. This gives growers greater planning flexibility and allows greenhouse space to be used more efficiently. It also enables new products to reach the market faster, which can be a significant advantage in a competitive industry.

© Martijn Haas | FloralDaily.com
Verbena Vitessa from Florensis offers rapid growth and is available in a range of colors

© Mirthe Walpot | FloralDaily.com
Campanula carpatica Elara, new from Schoneveld Breeding, reaches flowering in approximately 14 weeks from seed

© Martijn Haas | FloralDaily.com
Echeveria Can Can stands out for its distinctive foliage. This fast-growing variety can be grown under cool conditions.

© Martijn Haas | FloralDaily.com
Cyathea tomentosissima from De Zonnebloem / Henk Braam is a fast-growing, compact potted tree fern with dark red stems

See you next year!
Despite geopolitical challenges that prevented some regular international visitors from attending, the 2026 edition recorded more than 77,500 company visits—the highest number since before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019. In total, FlowerTrials welcomed 4,909 visitors (down 0.8% compared to 2025) from 89 countries. On average, each visitor toured 16 participating companies. The next edition of FlowerTrials will take place from 15–18 June 2027.

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