Winter has come to Florida. Ordinarily, our temperatures remain in the 50 - 70 degree range. As of late, we're getting temperatures in the 35 - 60 degree range which means we have to be ever vigilent about the slightest trends toward freezing. Despite the low temperatures, we've had some of our crosses from last year setting rather nice blooms. These are part of the group we may be registering within the next month or two. So, this is a sneak peek at what's new for 2011. Hope you enjoy them...

We've managed to get renewed growth from some survivors of last year's freeze! These Brugmansia seedlings made it through the hot Florida summer and are finally blooming again! The hard work and wait was worth it. Make a note of these crosses. It may be use for your breeding program.

As promised, we've started compiling a list of the best on-line plant dealers. The categories range from Amaryllis to Brugmansia, Begonias to Passiflora, Hibiscus to flowering tropical vines and seeds. These retailers offer excellent product, responsible packaging and shipping, courteous service and prompt problem solving. Once again, if you have a favorite seller, let us know.

For a plant lover, there's no better feeling than seeing a plant you've recently ordered, delivered and propped up against your front door. If the plant inside the package is healthy and lives up to your expectations, its a good day. On the other hand, if its not the plant you ordered or expected, or is unhealthy and poorly packaged, you're at a loss in more ways than one. Ordering plants on-line can be a dream fulfilled or a nightmare. With the holidays coming, we thought it might be a good idea to get the list going as soon as possible!

Over a period of time, after you've ordered many plants, you develop a list of on-line plant retailers you just love doing business with. We would like to invite you to share your great buying experiences with us by recommending your favorite plant vendors to other keen gardeners. So, lets get started!

Oftentimes, as I read through the various plant forums, i encounter letters from new hybridizers. After doing their homework, making a plan and racheting up their expectations, the much awaited blooms arrive. Some of those blooms are a sobering moment. The color isn't there. There are no real distinguishing characteristics that make the resulting blooms different enough to warrant being registered. Worse yet...ewwww, a pure white bloom. More often than not, the novice hybridizer says, "It just came out...white!" - as if this adds to the crash and burn. If you see something of yourself and your experience in this, take heart. We have a few insights into the situation that just might alleviate your angst.