CAST 2023: Ball Horticultural

In a jiffy

Sow Fast, Grow Fast is a new program developed by PanAmerican Seed that helps growers fill benches when they need a quick turnaround in spring. If a grower sold out faster than anticipated or planned a bit too conservatively, this program was designed for instances just like these for spring crops. “When you need something sown, grown and shipped within 10 weeks, we have the answers,” says Katie Rotella, Ball Horticultural senior public relations and digital manager. The team identified more than 100 varieties from seed that will be ready for sales in 10 weeks or less (some in seven weeks). Match up plants to do combos, as well. “It’s the grower’s answer to ‘in case of emergency, break glass,’” Rotella adds. Find the program here. 

Quick Snack Mini Potted Cucumber

Crisp and quick

Joining the PanAmerican Seed Kitchen Minis series this year is Quick Snack Mini Potted Cucumber. It offers crisp and sweet mini cucumbers for several weeks without needing pollination. If grown on its own, the fruit will be seedless. If grown next to other cucumbers with male flowers, there is potential to set seed.

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Ideally, growers will plant them in 6-8 inch pots with a trellis, and pinch when the vine reaches the top. It takes 4 weeks from sowing to produce fruit. Retailers would ideally sell plants when they are fruiting, said Katie Rotella, Ball Horticultural senior public relations and digital manager.

Seeds are also available to the consumer to start and grow on their own.

Silver fox

New Silver Swirl Centaurea from Darwin Perennials is a showstopper that goes with everything. It’s a great accent plant in the landscape that attracts attention with its soft silver foliage. It’s ideal for combinations and front border plantings.

The centaurea is hardy to Zone 6, one lower than other centaureas. Silver Swirl grows to 8-11 inches high and 11-14 inches wide.