Here's a Colorado proud moment:  many of the flower varieties not only enjoyed by us - but the rest of the country - get their start in Colorado.  We've got what it takes to separate the fluff from the hardy - pounding hail, harsh winds, scorching sun, dry climate.

The rest of the country appreciates that if a petunia, geranium, impatiens, coleus and all the rest of the annuals we love can survive in Colorado and keep on bloomin', they can survive darn near anywhere.  

Next week the annual Flower Trials will be taking place throughout the state.  Industry pros, master gardeners, horticulturists and everyday citizens who just love to garden, all get to vote.  You, too, can preview the many varieties of annuals - and vote your faves.  Flowers will also be available for purchase, so you can be among the first to showcase the latest trends for 2013 a year ahead of schedule.  

Where to preview - and vote - your favorite flowers
Trials begin tomorrow and continue through August 14th at seven area garden centers.  You can vote for flowers and participate in other events like raffles, food tastings, ice cream socials - and more.  See the date and location of each event at the right.  

Flower trials at Colorado State University

The largest Flower Trial event will take place next week at Colorado State University where about 800 varieties of annuals and a large assortment of perennials will be displayed for viewing and voting.  The plants will be in place until the end of the season.  

If you are delivering a student to CSU this fall, head over to the east side of the campus after the stuff has been dumped at the dorm.  It's a flower extravaganza you can't afford to miss.  

The winners selected from voting at all these events will be available in 2013.  And we will all take pride in knowing that the latest and greatest annuals for Colorado will also be dressing up landscapes across the country.  

That's a vote worth making.

Need help creating showy flower beds in your yard?  Find a Professional among ALCC's members located in six chapters statewide.