Articles

Most people grow roses from cuttings or potted transplants, but did you know you can also grow them from seed? While growing roses from seed is a slower process, it allows you to explore natural variety, experiment with breeding, and experience the joy of watching a rose grow from the very beginning. In East Texas, this process can be rewarding—but it requires patience, care, and the right timing. Step-by-Step: Growing…
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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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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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Pruning Tomatoes and Growing Them Successfully in East Texas Tomatoes are a staple in many home gardens, and for good reason—they are productive, versatile, and relatively easy to grow with the right care. In East Texas, our warm climate allows for a long growing season, but high humidity and pests can pose challenges. Proper pruning is one of the best ways to keep your tomato plants healthy and productive. How…
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Introduction No-till gardening is a sustainable method that improves soil health while reducing labor and disruption to the garden ecosystem. By eliminating traditional tilling, this technique preserves soil structure, boosts beneficial microbial activity, and prevents erosion, making it an excellent choice for both home gardeners and large-scale growers. Why Choose No-Till Gardening? Tilling may seem like a quick way to loosen soil, but it actually disrupts essential soil life, leading…
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Gardeners often have mixed feelings about snails. These slow-moving creatures can bring both benefits and challenges to a garden, making it essential to understand their roles and how to manage them. Snails as a Friend Snails can be beneficial in a garden ecosystem. They feed on decaying plant material, helping to break down organic matter and enrich the soil, which boosts nutrient availability for other plants. Snails also play a…
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Description A hybrid succulent is a cross between separate succulent species, often times belonging to separate genera. A few examples of hybrid genera (sometimes referred to as nothogenera) include xGraptosedum, xGraptoveria, and xSedeveria. As the names imply, these nothogenera come from the cross between Graptopetalum, Echeveria, and Sedum respectively. Creating hybrid succulents can be incredibly challenging, but the results are well worth the effort, as you will soon read. Advantages…
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