In 2002 I wrote an article about the field trials of annuals. These field trials were conducted by seed companies, arboretums, and horticultural schools. The power of these field trials came from the results. Winners and losers were chosen based on weather conditions. Few trial locations received additional irrigations, so if it was a hot and droughty year, all the better. These trials were conducted all over the country with the closest tests conducted in Georgia and South Carolina.

Yearly results were posted on the internet and anyone could log on and see how a particular plant had done in a specific year or years. It was a boon for folks like myself, trying to figure out what annuals I should sell at my nursery, given the enormous amount of choices.

Things have changed in 2009. Field trials are far and few between, apparently other options were formulated for that expansive real estate. Park Seed in Greenville, South Carolina still conducts theirs. On June 27th the public is invited to "Flower Day" where tours are given of the nine acre trial gardens. This is not the field trials of old. Nine acres are transformed into a lush landscape of color, watered and pampered, more a show of annuals at their best than a test of grit and fortitude. Comparisons are still made by Park Seed, which also owns Wayside Gardens, but these are for in-house use only.

In visiting former locations where field trials were held, one finds gardens in their place. I suppose that we are more interested in seeing plants mixed up and together. If indeed you are interested in how plants look, why not put them all together? So woody shrubs exist with perennials and pockets of annuals are thrown in here and there. Tags are placed, giving common and botanical names so that the curious can jot down what they like. County parks, arboretums and public gardens subscribe to this way of thinking.

The true search for tough plants now comes from seasonal observation and sharing knowledge. And this brings me to my point, the modern day blog.

Since blogging began in 1999, it has undergone huge transformations. Now it's easy for anyone to begin a blog, either on their own website or through a secondary web page. I personally have a few bookmarked or emailed directly to my inbox. Who doesn't?! There are a great many gardening blogs. GardenWeb offers distinct garden style forums (as they call them), as well as state by state blogs. The chatter is constant. People find each other based on interests and hard to find items are found.

My favorite is called "Garden Rant" and Allan Armitage is a contributing blogger and former field trial founder of the University of Georgia's trials (still ongoing). He initiates discussions which yield a wealth of information. Everything from how to pronounce clematis to your five favorite annuals or perennials. As blogs go "Garden Rant" is a remarkable place and better yet, you don't have to sign in and become a member. Anyone can join in or simple lurk.

Is this the new way to learn? Absolutely!