Samplingthe California showcase:Using teamwork this year, I welcomed a little help from friends in creating my Pack Trials overview

摘要

Due to some last-minute and unforeseen circumstances, I was unable to tour this year's California Showcase (more widely known as the California Pack Trials). So I've done the next best thing, by getting feedback through the eyes of three colleagues who did make the trip. These helpful "roving correspondents" include a buyer for a large garden centre chain, a wholesale grower and a retail grower.Shelley Elgar is a buyer for Sheridan Garden Centres. John Ondejko and Laura Martindale, from Seacliff Farms, offered their top picks, which are part of our variety highlights, among other suggestions. Supplying a retail grower viewpoint were Jim and Chris Pepetone (photo, top right) from Terra Greenhouses. Chris was also helpful in providing many of the photos.