June 25, 2009

Unusual plants recognized by Virginia growers

RICHMOND—With garden season in full-swing, some unlikely plants are getting special recognition.

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services recently named its Beautiful Gardens “Plants of Distinction” for 2009. The Beautiful Gardens program was initiated by the Virginia Nurserymen’s Association to strengthen the quality and diversity of Virginia’s ornamental plants by featuring underutilized plants that have grown successfully throughout the state.

This year’s Plants of Distinction include the Chinese Redbud, the Lily of the Nile, Stokes’ Aster, and the Hardy Banana. The full list with descriptions of each plant can be found at beautifulgardens.org.

Doug Hensel, owner of the Great Big Greenhouse in Richmond, said this year’s Plants of Distinction are unknown to many consumers but will thrive almost anywhere in Virginia.

“One thing people may not be aware of is the hardiness zone that Virginia represents—anywhere from a 6-A to an 8-A,” Hensel said. “That’s quite a range in one state,” and it provides gardeners with many options for ornamental plants.

The Plants of Distinction are being offered at 26 independent garden centers across the state.

The nursery industry is an important part of Virginia agriculture. According to the most recent Census of Agriculture for the nursery and greenhouse industry, the value of Virginia’s floriculture crops totaled $115.5 million in 2007. The most profitable subcategory was bedding and garden plants, which generated more than $92 million.

Contact Hensel at 804-320-1317 or Veronica Rohrmoser, VFBF video intern, at 804-290-1145.