A lot has happened this year in the nursery industry. From devastating hurricanes and a journey into the world of plastic containers to advances in plant genetics, these 12 stories captured our readers' attention. Here are our top 12 articles by pageviews:
1. Hurricane Helene has devastated the horticulture industry. Here's how you can help
Photo courtesy of Carolina Native Nursery
Green industry businesses throughout western North Carolina sustained heavy damage from Hurricane Helene, and many will be closed until further notice. Here's how you can help.
2. Progress report: Evaluating new plants
Dr. Dirr shares recent advances in broadleaf evergreens, flowering trees and more.
3. Peering over the plant horizon

Photos provided by Michael A. Dirr
Dr. Dirr takes stock of advances in plant genetics with a focus on flowering shrubs.
4. The container challenge
A journey into the world of plastic plant containers: history and today.
5. EPA issues emergency order against DCPA pesticide use
Logo courtesy of EPA
This is the first time in almost 40 years the EPA has taken this type of emergency action.
6. Proven Winners introduces more than 100 new varieties for 2025

Photo courtesy of Proven Winners
Proven Winners' introductions for 2025 include 35 annuals, 42 perennials and 24 shrubs.
7. Petitti Family of Farms acquires Klyn Nurseries

Photo courtesy of Petitti Family of Farms
The acquisition increases new owner's total acreage to 4,000 and positions the company to expand its reach and offering of specialty perennials, grasses and native plants.
8. Hold the line!
© Katelyn Mullen/Adobe Firefly
Charlie Hall urges restraint in his 2024 Economic State of the Green Industry assessment.
9. In defense of peat
Photo © Martin Bergsma/Adobestock
Is the bad press for horticultural peat wildly overblown?
10. America's Rose Garden 2024 season opens

Photo provided by ARC
The American Rose Center has added more roses, trees and other flowering plants throughout the property for visitors to enjoy — roughly 6,000 rose plants and 5,000 other plants, including ornamental trees.
11. Go systemic to stop red-headed flea beetles
© Photo courtesy of Raymond Cloyd
New research shows how systemic insecticides protect container-grown nursery plants from this troublesome pest.
12. Peter Orum, founder of Midwest Groundcovers, passes away at 82
Photo by Tory Soper for GIE Media Horticulture Group
Peter Orum, a legendary nurseryman, entrepreneur and industry advocate, founded Midwest Groundcovers in Illinois in 1969.