Positive Trends On The Rise At MANTS 2015

Baltimore was THE place to be January 14 through 16, when the Masterpiece of Trade Shows™ – MANTS® – was in full swing. Larger than ever, this is one of the few horticultural trade shows that are growing in North America. Attitudes were upbeat: it seems that the gloomy business climate of the recent past is substantially taking a positive turn. Nationwide inventories are tight on many woody products, as cuts in production in the last several years have now exceeded demand. Growers are in a better position to raise prices, something that has been largely impossible the last five years – a very good sign!

Our marquee product this year, L.A. Dreamin’ Hydrangea, is more than living up to performance expectations as the first crops go to market. We heard from many growers that this plant is exceeding performance claims – from Florida to the upper peninsula of Michigan to the west coast. Mike DuVall of Home Depot calls L.A. Dreamin’ “the best Hydrangea macrophylla that I have ever seen…and I have seen too many of them.” This refreshingly fun and unique product is attracting a lot of attention in the industry and will be our first national consumer brand. Multiple colored flowers on the same plant, compact, reblooming and cold-hardy…more consumer benefits than any other hydrangea macrophylla. You’ll be seeing a lot of this in the future. (And a big “thank you” to all the growers that included L.A. Dreamin’ banners in their booths!)

The HGTV Plant brand continues to grow, as several new varieties were announced in their line, including our Lagerstroemia Enduring series and Camellia Curly Lady. This plant brand is growing aggressively and is especially appropriate for independent garden centers. Look for a more pronounced placement across the country this year.

To read the rest of the story, please go to: Ball Ornamentals