Eye-catching edibles

While the variety itself debuted at last year’s trials, the folks at Pacific Plug & Liner have revamped the point-of-purchase materials and look of the white strawberry known as Hula Berry.

The new veggie varieties at Burpee were chosen based on their consumer appeal and the fact that they all fit into at least one category: perfect for small space gardening, ideal for foodie gardeners (those who enjoy cooking with fresh produce they've grown) or show-stopping presence. One standout that fit into more than one of the categories was the Masterpiece pea, with its edible tendrils, peas and pods.

Over at Syngenta, veggie expert Jeannine Bogard introduced us to her “Decision Tree” concept for growers looking to diversify and complete their tomato and pepper offerings. Growers choose at least one variety from each of the categories that are represented by branches labeled “fruit color,” “fruit size” or “best sellers,” for example, to ensure they are fulfilling retail needs all season long.

Sakata Seed had some standout edible ornamental combinations that included trellised peas combined with calibrachoas, petunias and other plants. However, some of the pea varieties were just as much ornamental as they were edible. Another variety we liked was the ‘Little Dipper’ butternut squash, with its smaller-sized, easy-to-cut fruit.

Plug Connection’s Ketchup ‘n’ Fries grafted tomato and potato plant has hit shelves this year to resounding success. It has been featured on national television and sales are booming.

The Patio Edibles line from Vegetalis, we found out, is akin to a goldfish in all the best ways. The plants can be easily grown in a variety of pot sizes, from 4-inch containers in a pack to large pots with built-in support cages. The flexibility makes it a desirable line for growers.

At Cultivaris, we chatted with owner Josh Schneider, who has coined the term “edimentals” to describe the beautiful, yet edible and functional plants they produce.