Advances in Horticulture
The Gardener|May 2023
The horticulture industry is vast, varied and always improving. Its history can be traced back thousands of years to the period when humans began transitioning from huntergatherer lifestyles to more settled communities.
Madison Moulton
Advances in Horticulture

Once conscious cultivation of plants began, efforts to improve the process came with it, leading to the impressive advances we all benefit from today.

In the last 20 years, advances in horticulture have come by leaps and bounds in various fields. For gardeners, this means a dizzying range of new ornamental beauties to choose from.

Whether you want bigger blooms or new colour, growers have dedicated years to making those dreams come true. These few examples of standout plants demonstrate just how far the industry has come, and the potential it has to grow in the future.

 

More blooms

Supertunias

Petunias are one of the most beloved annuals around the world, known for their stunning colour and impressive range. Whether planted in pots as features, hung from patios in baskets or used to brighten up garden beds, petunias always perform.

Supertunias are hybrids that deliver more of the best parts of these plants - their flowers. They bloom so prolifically (especially when grown in perfect conditions) that it is almost difficult to see the leaves through the carpets of colour.

Interesting foliage

Pelargonium x hortorum

Many garden plants are favoured first and foremost for their flowers. Foliage usually comes second, but not when it comes to these pelargonium hybrids. A cross between Pelargonium zonale and Pelargonium inquinans, Pelargonium x hortorum is sometimes known as the fancy leaf geranium, perfectly describing the benefits of this wonderful plant. The foliage features splashes of patterns and colour that add interest even when the plant is not in flower.

Bigger blooms

Plectranthus 'Magic Mona'

This story is from the May 2023 edition of The Gardener.

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This story is from the May 2023 edition of The Gardener.

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