2019 Penn State Flower Trials
The Penn State Flower Trials — in its 86th year in 2019 — has a powerful benefit in Pennsylvania and beyond. Penn State's Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center serves as the epicenter of the trials.
Horticulture trial gardens have a long history at Penn State. The first flower trial was opened in 1933 at University Park to test seed-grown bedding plants.
In 1994 the flower trial at the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center (SEAREC) in Landisville, Pennsylvania, was started to evaluate vegetative and container-grown annuals for their outdoor performance and tolerance to pest problems in the hot, humid summer climate of southeastern Pennsylvania. Data is applicable to the millions of consumers and thousands of commercial growers in the Mid-Atlantic region. In 2008 more than 1,330 varieties were entered from breeders in Europe, Central America, the United States, Israel, Africa, and China, as well as from Pennsylvania growers.
What is SEAREC?
The gardens at SEAREC are living laboratories and garden classrooms for horticulture, plant pathology and entomology. Commercial visitors use the gardens to develop plant lists knowing that varieties have been fully tested in this climate and under standard cultural conditions. Others use the trials for photography, relaxation, inspiration, or simply selecting the best plants for their own gardens.
What we do …
- Evaluate plants during the growing season
- Provide information for commercial growers and gardeners
- Hold Field Day for visual evaluation and tour
- Conduct tours upon request
Visitors are welcome dawn to dusk June 1 to August 31. Groups who wish additional information, guided tours, or orientation should apply in advance, by calling 717-270-4391 (Lebanon County Extension), or 717-653-4728 (SEAREC).
What are the technical requirements for watching videos?
To watch a video, you will need access to a computer or mobile device that is connected to the internet. It is also recommended, but not required, that you use a device with sound.
What devices and browsers are supported for watching videos?
Videos can be accessed on most desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. Videos are compatible with most up-to-date browsers.
Can a video be viewed multiple times?
Yes! You can watch our videos as many times as you like.
Can I share a video with multiple people?
Yes! We would love you to share our videos! Use the social media links on the video pages to share videos with your friends, family, and coworkers!
Is there closed captioning available for videos?
Yes, most videos are closed captioned. You can turn this feature on and off within the video frame.
Are videos accessible for people who require special needs or services?
Yes. Videos are closed captioned. In some cases, you can also view or print the video transcript.
Who do I contact if I have a question about a specific video?
Please submit your question or comment through the "Contact Us" form using the link in the footer of this page. We will be glad to assist you.
