Plant Development Services announces new liner distribution networks for Encore Azalea and Southern Living Plant Collection

Plant Development Services has announced that, beginning in spring 2012, Encore Azalea and the Southern Living Plant Collection will begin to allow growers outside the licensed grower groups for the brands to purchase liners and finish these varieties for sale.

Plant Development Service’s director says the new liner distribution networks will allow for more Encore Azaleas and Southern Living Plant Collection varieties at retail, further reinforcing brand presence in the marketplace.

“Through these efforts, Encore Azaleas and the Southern Living Plant Collection will continue to be leaders in their categories,” said Kip McConnell, director, Plant Development Services.

Only members of the licensed grower groups will be allowed to propagate. The new out-of-network growers will pay the program fee, and purchase tags and containers, at the time of liner purchase.

To ensure consistent quality as their number of growers increases, Plant Development Services have contracted with Plant Watch, a Michigan-based company charged with detecting possible violations of plant patents and trademark program rules. This fall, nurseries across the country began to be visited by Plant Watch representatives. Plant Watch will check to make sure growers are meeting the requirements of the branded programs.

For more information, or to purchase liners, interested growers should visit plantdevelopment.com/liners or call 888-922-7374.