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For centuries, countless American native perennials have gone to Europe for an education, returning with new names and improved forms. Case in point: Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’, Perennial Plant of the Year in 1999. We know the genus Rudbeckia was collected here and studied across the Atlantic by at least the 18th Century, because the great Linnaeus (1707-1778) himself named it.‘Goldsturm’ is a classic top seller for all perennial growers and retailers. Its trademark long-flowering golden flowers

The Dog Days are past. Bring on the Holidays!We’re known for hardy grasses and perennials, but we have a tender spot for irresistible tender plants. And the breeding wizards at Terra Nova Nurseries have outdone themselves – again! – with their world-class Begonias.These multi-purpose beauties are sensational as houseplants, in mixed containers, or in the shaded summer border. And they shine brightest as seasonal decor.We couldn’t resist them. Your customers won’t either!Holiday® SeriesSpectacula

What gives a grower the blues? Small plants and disappointed customers.Forget what the song says. There IS a cure: Plant this fall instead of waiting until spring. It’s not just for trees!It’s a simple equation: Build a firm foundation under that crown. When your plants go into winter with a bulked-up root mass, they’ll do three things quicker in spring: Fill out, look gorgeous – and sell. The principle applies to many genera, but we particularly recommend it for these four grass families; 

About the Rock Star AwardOur Rock Star award honors Emerald Coast Growers employees who demonstrate a sustained high level of performance and inspire others.This month, for just the second time in the history of the award, we have a tie. The two employees who rose to the top of the balloting work together so well, we literally couldn’t give just one of them the award they both richly deserve. Jose Hernandez came to work for ECG in 2007. Two years later, Keith Eads joined the team. The term

That’s right, folks: Perovskia is native to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tibet. It’s not from Russia, with or without love.It’s also not a sage, despite the pungent salvia-like aroma released when the silvery foliage is crushed. It’s actually in the mint family.P. atriplicifoliaThe original! Talc-white stems rise from lacy, blue/pewter foliage, adorned with sprays of lavender flowers. Named Perennial Plant of the Year in 1995, it stands a loose-limbed 3 – 4’ and is hardy in Zones 4 – 9. P. hyb