Alberta Perennial Trial Garden Evaluations 2006-2008

The Alberta Perennial Trials is a research and demonstration project that evaluates new herbaceous
perennials for the Alberta region. New perennial species and cultivars are monitored at test sites for a
period of three years. Results are published in the form of a technical industry report and public
documents. Currently a plan to develop a website is underway to allow easy access to this valuable
information to the general public, growers, landscapers and retailers in the industry.

The growth of annual and perennial bedding plants represents a significant portion of the greenhouse
industry in Alberta. According to the Alberta Greenhouse Industry Profile 2007 published by Alberta
Agriculture and Rural Development the greenhouse industry is valued at approximately $140 million.
Bedding plants of annuals and perennials are amongst the major crops grown. Of the estimated 118.5 ha
of greenhouse space in Alberta, approximately 57.0 ha are used for growing annual and perennial bedding
plants. This report indicates a positive outlook for the growth and demand for bedding plants of both
annuals and perennials as population growth increases demand. To keep up with the continued demand
the growers and retailers continue to introduce many new species and cultivars of herbaceous perennials.
Most new introductions are accompanied by limited Alberta specific information regarding their
hardiness and landscape qualities. The Alberta Perennial Trials provides an opportunity to evaluate plants
for the unique climate and growing conditions in Alberta.

The first research and demonstration of herbaceous perennials was held at the Calgary Zoo and Botanical
Gardens 1999 – 2001. The Alberta Perennial Trials were established in 2002 and includes test sites at
Olds College Botanic Gardens, the Muttart Conservatory and the Calgary Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
This expansion to three test locations allows for evaluation of plant material under a broad range of
Alberta’s diverse growing conditions. This report includes test plants evaluated from 2006 to 2008.

Click here for copy of Alberta Perennial Trial Garden Evaluation 2006-2008 - Achillea - Chrysanthemum. (2900 kb)
Click here for copy of Alberta Perennial Trial Garden Evaluation 2006-2008 - Delphinium - Fargesia. (5084 kb)
Click here for copy of Alberta Perennial Trial Garden Evaluation 2006-2008 - Gypsophilia - Miscanthus (6918 kb)
Click here for copy of Alberta Perennial Trial Garden Evaluation 2006-2008 - Molinia - Tradescantia (8852 kb)
Click here for copy of Alberta Perennial Trial Garden Evaluation 2006-2008 - Appendix (162 kb)

For further information contact the Calgary Zoo.

Information provided by A. Van de Reep, Project Coordinator, Alberta Perennial Trials, Calgary Zoo.

Alberta Perennial Trial Garden Evaluations 2006-2008

Other Documents in the Series