Author Archive: gen1greenhouse.com
Overview Plant breeding has changed dramatically in the last century. As tools like F1 hybridization, tissue culture, and genetic mapping have become standard in modern horticulture, breeders and growers alike are faced with the question: Are these newer methods better than the traditional ones? Using the petunia as a central example, this article explores the strengths and weaknesses of modern-day breeding methods compared to historical approaches—and considers what this means…
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At Gen1 Greenhouse, we are exploring the wild side of petunias.Our breeding project mixes wild species, heirlooms, and hybrids to see what happens when resilience and beauty collide. From Petunia axillaris’s powerful scent, to Petunia Integrifolia‘s vigorous growth, and even to Petunia exserta’s rare red blooms, we are crossing, observing, and documenting, while chasing petunias that are as tough as wild species and as stunning as the modern hybrid. Experimental…
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Overview Lantana is a tough-as-nails perennial that thrives in heat, drought, and full sun. Its colorful flowers attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and pollinators throughout the growing season. Light Requirements Lantana requires full sun. Six to eight hours of direct sunlight ensures dense growth and prolific blooming. Soil & Planting Lantana is adaptable to poor soil, but prefers well-draining ground. Sandy or loamy soil is ideal. Avoid overly rich soil that promotes…
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Overview Lavender can be grown in East Texas with careful attention to drainage, airflow, and sunlight. While our humidity poses a challenge, choosing the right variety and planting technique makes success possible. Light Requirements Lavender needs full sun with a minimum 6 hours daily. Morning to mid-afternoon light is ideal. Avoid planting lavender in shade or overly humid areas. Soil & Planting Lavender must have well-draining, slightly alkaline soil. Amend…
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Overview Marigolds are one of the easiest and most rewarding annuals for East Texas gardeners. With their vibrant blooms and classic appeal, marigolds make a cheerful addition to flowerbeds, and container arrangements. These tough, sun-loving plants thrive in our hot climate and bloom from spring until frost. Light Requirements Marigolds thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct light daily. More sun encourages stronger stems and a…
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Overview Mexican Heather, aka Mexican False Lavender, or (Cuphea hyssopifolia) is a low-growing, evergreen perennial with delicate, lavender-like flowers and fine, airy foliage. Though not a true lavender, this plant offers year-round texture and color in the East Texas landscape. It makes an excellent ground cover or border plant and is highly attractive to pollinators. Light Requirements Cuphea hyssopifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. It performs best with morning…
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Overview: Caladiums are grown primarily for their vibrant, heart-shaped leaves in shades of red, pink, green, and white. These tropical plants are well-suited to East Texas gardens if given proper care, especially in shaded areas where many flowering plants struggle. Though most gardeners grow them as annuals, they are tuberous perennials that can be saved and replanted yearly. Light Requirements Caladiums thrive in partial to full shade, making them ideal…
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Overview Every year on May 29th, gardeners and environmentalists across the country recognize Learn About Composting Day—a day dedicated to educating people about the importance of composting and encouraging sustainable practices at home and in the garden. Whether you are a seasoned grower or just starting out, this day is a reminder that healthy soil and thriving plants begin with what we put back into the earth. Composting is one…
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Overview Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata), sometimes called skyflower, is a heat-tolerant perennial shrub known for its powder-blue blooms. Native to South Africa, it thrives in the warm, sunny climate of East Texas and is ideal for adding soft color and structure to garden beds, borders, and containers. Its sprawling habit makes it excellent for covering bare spots or trailing over edges. Light Requirements Plumbago thrives in full sun, although it will…
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We all understand how difficult it can be to keep succulents alive, and it is even harder to keep them thriving. The biggest factor at play in allowing your succulents to thrive is the soil, because soil holds the key to root growth, nutrient supply. and much more. The soil can either help water flow through the roots like a refreshing drink or let it build up in the pot…
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