A total of 38 caladium varieties were evaluated at the LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station during the summer of 2009 for their landscape performance, including foliage color, fullness and plant uniformity. The top 10 performers are presented here. (Caladium tubers were donated by Classic Caladiums and Happiness Farms.)

A phenology research garden was planted in fall 2007 at the LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station in Hammond, La. Data collected in 2008 indicated that a sequence of phonological events in advance of pest activities is available from 15 ornamental plants for predicting landscape pest activity.

Green industry professionals attending the landscape horticulture field day at the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station in June were given the opportunity to “pick their winning plants” from the sun garden evaluation trial gardens at the station. Over 340 varieties were planted this year. The planting mostly consists of annual bedding plants and herbaceous perennials, but new roses and some “companion” woody ornamental shrubs (such as Southern Living plants) are also included.

There are several state-regulated horticulture professions and two occupations that require a license or permit in Louisiana.

Ornamental sweet potatoes have gained considerable interest among land¬scape industry professionals and home gardeners over the past 10 years. Varieties include plants that are chartreuse-lime green (Margarita), blackish purple (Blackie) and tricolored (Pink Frost).

Photo gallery of the Matrix series pansies from landscape performance trials at the Hammond Research Station, spring 2009. Data also included.

Photo gallery of the Matrix series pansies from landscape performance trials at the Hammond Research Station, spring 2009. Data also included.

Results from landscape performance trials on Lucky and Landmark series lantanas from Ball FloraPlant at the Hammond Research Station in 2008.

A photo gallery of the 'XXL' pansy varieties from landscape trial plantings at the Hammond Research Station, spring 2009.

A photo gallery of the 'XXL' pansy varieties from landscape trial plantings at the Hammond Research Station, spring 2009.