Farwest Show Highlights

Jennifer Polanz

This year’s Farwest Show in Portland, Oregon, saw an uptick in attendance over the previous year with more than 5,000 industry professionals from 20 countries taking part. The trade show had nearly 400 exhibitors on the floor, which remained stable with the previous year, according to details provided by show officials.

We also got word of some of the award winners from the event, including the top honor, which went to Japanese painted fern Crested Surf (pictured) for Best in Show in the New Varieties Showcase. Hybridized by Hans Hansen at Walters Gardens, it’s available from Proven Winners and was one of 83 new varieties on display in the showcase.

Pictured left: Japanese Fern Crested Surf & Flame Thrower Redbud

The judges also gave Awards of Merit to Golden Falls Redbud from Star Roses & Plants (bred by Dr. Denny Werner); Manzanita Panchito, introduced by Plant Select and available from Van Essen Nursery; and Ground Hog Aronia, introduced by Spring Meadow Nursery and Proven Winners ColorChoice (hybridized at the University of Connecticut by Dr. Mark Brand).

Another redbud, Flame Thrower Redbud (pictured), also bred by Dr. Werner and introduced by Star Roses & Plants, won the People’s Choice Best in Show in the New Varieties. There were three Awards of Merit given, too, with the People’s Choice: Seaside Serenade Cape Hatteras Hydrangea, introduced by Monrovia; Rock 'N Grow Pride and Joy Stonecrop from Walters Gardens; and Heartleaf Brunnera Queen of Hearts from Walters Gardens.

Visit www.farwestshow.com to read details about the winning varieties and see images. Mark your calendar for August 26-28, 2020 for next year’s Farwest Show. GP