Trials evaluate osteospermum in Ohio

Results have been tallied for Ohio State University’s ninth osteospermum trials. In 2006, researchers divided plants from each cultivar into two groups -- vernalized and grown at 70°F at all times.

Some of the top vernalized cultivars rated by consumers were: ‘Side Show Purple,’ ‘Tradewinds Deep Purple,’ ‘Summertime Lavender,’ ‘Summertime Pink Charme 1,’ the experimental ‘Dwarf Side Show K4-207’ and ‘Summertime Pink Charme 2.’

Favorites of the trial director and manager in the vernalized category were: ‘Tradewinds White,’ ‘Pinwheel White Eye,’ ‘Side Show White’ and ‘Experimental Easter Egg Colors 20457.’

Some of the top non-vernalized cultivars were; ‘Side Show Purple,’ ‘Tradewinds Deep Purple,’ ‘Tradewinds White’ and ‘Ostica Blue Eye.’

Evaluations were based on flower number, flower quality, foliage quality and overall appeal.

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For more: Claudio Pasian, Ohio State University, 249B Howlett Hall, 2001 Fyffe Court, Columbus, OH 43210; 614-292-9941; http://floriculture.osu.edu/archive/sep06/OsteoTrial06.html.