Some plant breeders changing locations for 2026 California Spring Trials

Some breeders are changing locations for the 2026 version of California Spring Trials, which the National Garden Bureau manages.

Based on attendee feedback from 2025, the 2026 CAST will follow a Tuesday-Friday schedule. The dates are March 24-27, 2026.

This key industry event for brokers, growers and retailers is held at multiple locations across California, offering an exclusive preview of upcoming ornamental and edible plant introductions.

Benary

After more than a decade of hosting CAST at its Watsonville facility, Benary is moving to Por La Mar Nursery for 2026 and beyond. The address is 905 S. Patterson Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93111.

Benary has closed its Watsonville breeding facility, prompting the move to Por La Mar Nursery.

"We’re excited to begin this new chapter with Por La Mar," said Dwight Deppen, Benary sales and marketing manager for North America. "Their commitment to excellence and their beautiful location make them the perfect partner for continuing our CAST legacy of creativity, connection and horticultural innovation."

Global Plant Source

Global Plant Source, representing several Israeli breeding and propagating companies, is moving for CAST 2026 from Watsonville to the Santa Barbara Polo Club, 3300 Via Real, Carpinteria, CA 93013.

Israeli unrooted cuttings, rhizome and tissue culture suppliers — including Cohen Nursery, Hishtil Nurseries, Jaldety Nursery, Saad Assaf Flower Bulbs and Nir Nursery — are moving to Santa Barbara Polo Club, joining PlantHaven International, Pacific Plug & Liner and Liner and others.

On the CAST website, these companies are listed under Global Plant Source under the South Central Trial Stops South to North header.

Walter's Gardens

New for CAST 2026, Walter’s Gardens will be at the Santa Barbara Polo Club at 3300 Via Real, Carpinteria, CA 93013.

Express Seed Company

Another new participant, Express Seed Company, is joining Danziger and ThinkPlants at the Headstart Nursery location at 4860 Monterey Road, Gilroy, CA 95020.

To view all the stops and addresses, visit the CAST trip planner page. Until registration opens (no later than Jan. 2, 2026), attendees can begin planning their schedules now by using the trip planner.