Gen1 Greenhouse -

Petunia Exserta – The Endangered Red Star

Among the countless cultivated petunias sold in garden centers around the world, almost none resemble the wild red star petunia species exserta. Modern hybrid petunias are highly modified ornamental plants bred for large flowers, compact growth, and extreme color variation. Hidden behind those hybrids is a much smaller group of wild South American species that started it all. One of the most unusual and scientifically important of this group is…
Read more

The Easiest Houseplant – Tradescantia (Wandering Jew)

If there is one houseplant genus that combines beauty, resilience, speed of growth, and ease of care, it is Tradescantia. Commonly called wandering dude, wandering Jew, inch plant, or spiderwort depending on species and region, Tradescantia plants are among the most forgiving plants for beginners while still being attractive enough for experienced collectors. With colorful foliage, trailing stems, and rapid growth, Tradescantia can thrive indoors, on shaded porches, hanging baskets,…
Read more

What is Happening at Gen1 Greenhouse?

What Have We Been Up To? Here at Gen1 Greenhouse, we have been busy with landscaping jobs, plant breeding, propagation of new plant varieties, and other behind-the-scenes work most of this season. We appreciate your patience as our sales gradually increase in size and frequency. We are working towards opening the nursery full-time, Tuesday-Saturday, but considering that we only have one worker (Caleb Jones) working as the founder, owner, nurseryman,…
Read more

Three Ornamental Plants That Thrive in the East Texas Climate

Introduction to the Climate Gardening in East Texas presents unique challenges. Long summers, intense heat, heavy rainfall followed by drought, and variable soils can make plant selection difficult. Choosing ornamentals that are already well adapted to these conditions is one of the most effective ways to create a successful, low-maintenance landscape. Three plants consistently stand out for their durability, beauty, and performance across East Texas landscapes. When used correctly, these…
Read more

Petunia Breeding Program – February 2026

The History Behind the Petunias In 2024, my great aunt, Nelda, showed me a group of petunias growing wild on her property. These plants were immediately familiar to me. As a child, I remember playing among this group of petunias in her backyard when I would come to visit. The petunias have grown on her property without human care for at least 25 years. They reseed themselves, survive in heavy…
Read more

How to Compost for Beginners

Overview Composting is one of the most effective ways to improve your soil naturally. By recycling kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials, you can create a nutrient-rich amendment that strengthens your plants, boosts soil structure, and supports long-term garden health. For beginners, composting may seem complicated, but the truth is that anyone can do it. Whether you garden on a small porch or several acres, there is a…
Read more

Yard Renewal – Fall 2025

As the holidays approach and family comes to visit, everyone wants their home to look spectacular. Holiday decorating and stringing up lights takes up much time and leaves little left for cleaning the yard. Between the leaves, pine straw, sticks, and those pesky weeds, it is easy to become overwhelmed and settle for a messy yard; but there is another way! We are offering a seasonal savings deal to ALL…
Read more

Spring Sale – 2026

Join us for our spring 2026 sale! We will be offering many heirloom and hybrid vegetable varieties, ornamental annuals and perennials, premium fertilizers, and more! Plus, we offer free care guides with every purchase, so that your plant can thrive. The exact sale dates are not yet set, but we will open in early-April. You can find our complete availability list using this link (https://gen1greenhouse.com/availability-lists/)Can we count on you to…
Read more

Chrysanthemum Donations – Free Mums for a Good Cause

Gen1 Greenhouse is proud to be giving away our last mums of the year for our community’s churches, non-profits, schools, and widows. If you know an individual or organization that would benefit from free mums this November, then please reach out to Caleb Jones at +1 (936) 800-7350 to schedule a pickup while availability lasts. There is no cost to you. Please help us as we help our community.Gen1 Greenhouse…
Read more

How to Grow Ferns in East Texas

Introduction Ferns (Division: Pteridophyta) represent one of the oldest lineages of vascular plants, thriving in moist, shaded habitats worldwide. East Texas, characterized by its humid subtropical climate, acidic sandy soils, and abundant rainfall (typically 45–55 inches annually), provides a favorable environment for both native and ornamental fern species. However, successful cultivation requires attention to shade management, moisture balance, and soil organic content. 1. Recommended Fern Species for East Texas Below are species that perform reliably in…
Read more

Latest Posts