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Group tour making stops along CAST route in California

A group tour is set to take place highlighting stops along the California Spring Trial (CAST) route in California.

The three-day event is expected to take place from March 31 – April 2, 2022 and is organized for greenhouse growers and horticulture professionals.

Guests will be able to visit the major horticultural companies that distribute plant materials and supplies and get a first-hand look at the products and new varieties that are available to the horticulture industry. This tour is designed specifically for members of the greenhouse, nursery, and landscape industries, other horticulture professionals, and academics.

“Back in 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2018 I organized trips to the California Spring Trials for greenhouse growers and horticulture professionals. After taking four years off, another tour is planned for this March 31-April 2,” says Mark Bridgen, professor at Cornell University. “It allows attendees the convenience of not having to arrange for their own stops, hotels, and transportation.”

The journey begins on Thursday morning, March 31 when visitors will visit Danziger, Syngenta Flowers, Benary Seed, and Suncrest Nursery which features Cohen Nurseries, Hishtil Nurseries, Jaldety Nursery, Kamel Plastic Pots, Nir Nurseries and Prudac.

Friday, April 1, will see visits to Sakata Seed and American Takii, both in Salinas, followed by Dümmen Orange in San Luis Obispo.

Saturday, April 2, begins with a visit to Santa Barbara Polo Club. This stop features PlantHaven, Pacific Plug and Liner, Plant Development Services (Southern Living Plant Collection and Sunset Western Garden Collection), Suntory and Vivero. Guests will then make a stop at Ball Horticultural, which includes Ball FloraPlant, Ball Ingenuity, Darwin Perennials, Kieft Seed, PanAmerican Seed, & Selecta One. The last stop of the day is at Green Fuse Grove, which features Beekenkamp, Hem Genetics, Schoneveld and Westhoff.

The cost of the trip is $770 per person in a double room or $1,290 per person for a single room. These rates are based on 30 participants and will be adjusted slightly if minimum capacity is not met. The trip is subject to change and may be cancelled if minimum capacity is not met. Full COVID vaccination is required of participants.

The deadline to register is Friday, March 4,

To register, please click here.