Ball Horticultural Knowledge Base

What temperature should seed be kept at? From the Green Thumb Nursery in Ponchatoula Louisiana. Thank You.

Ball Hort Editor — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 09:42:00 GMT

Abstract:

When storing seed packets - whether they are for commercial use or sold to consumers - they should be kept in a cool, dry place. The optimum temperature is about 40F (5C) - about the same temperature as your home refrigerator.

Keeping seed at this temperature gives you maximum shelf life and allows you to use the seed in the greenhouse straight from storage.

hOW COLD CAN THE bALLFLOEIAPLANT TAKE, AND DOES HEAT EFFECT IT.

Ball Hort Editor — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 06:37:00 GMT

Abstract:

This question is specifically meant for Mona Lavender Plectranthus.

Mona Lavender is an annual variety that take high temperatures very well. So in areas like Florida, for example, Mona Lavender does very well.

Because of its high heat tolerance, it does not take cold very well. It will not perform below freezing (32F/0C). It does flower under shorter days, so the dark lavender florets appear in Spring and Autumn.

Is there a flower affiliated with the name Audrey?

Ball Hort Editor — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 08:03:00 GMT

Abstract: Ball does not currently sell a flower or plant with the name of "Audrey," however, many dahlias, rose plants and fuchsias feature women's names. You can search the Internet to see if there is a plant in the marketplace with this name.

is about (carex prairie fire) no matter what i try with these seed is always bad germination in the lavel for this seed is (95 %)is this information correct ? can you help me to improve my germination in these item

Ball Hort Editor — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 09:41:00 GMT

Abstract:

Carex Prairie Fire is normally a very good germinator. Kieft Pro-Seeds - the breeder of this variety - recommends that you sow 6 seeds per plug and to cover the seed. Germinate warm at 72F (22C). Sow between weeks 30 to 34 and finish between weeks 24 to 28 to sell for the Spring season, between March and May.

Keep fertilization low during the Winter, especially low in Nitrogen. Only during active growth use balanced fertilization N:P:K > 1:2:4 and give alternately CaNO3, EC 0.5-0.7 and pH of approximately 6-7.

Grow relatively dry, but Carex slightly more moist. Provide good drainage. In dormant Winter stage, relative humidity should be low - approximately 30-50%. Grow in a frostfree greenhouse.

on plug sizes in webtrack i see where some have a "p" at the end such as 324p and some have "cap". dont know what it stands for.thanks, glenn

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 05:18:00 GMT

Abstract:

The "p" in 324p stands for 324 punchable tray. CAP is for a "California-only" punchable tray, which means this type of tray is only sold to growers located in California.

Plugs that are punchable can be transplanted with a punching machine that is inexpensive compared to mechanical punching machines and saves on labor costs. The Punch 'N Gro system is the perfect greenhouse tool for labor and cost savings.

If you would like to know more information, visit the Punch 'N Gro page of our web site.

I am working on a plant database and need specific information on Verbena Balazlavi Aztec lavender improved. I have the general info on V. Aztec, but dont have the specifics for Balazlavi. One of our members has requested info on it. Please send it to me ASAP so I can let everyone know about this plant. Thanks, Nancy Engel (GWA member)

Ball Hort Editor — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 05:34:00 GMT

Abstract: The information for Aztec Lavender Improved is the same as the rest of the series. The name BALAZLAVI is actually the plant patent name, not the scientific name. All Aztec Verbenas are Verbena x hybrida.

For culture and care info, visit the Ball Hort site and go to the Plant Search. The link directly to the Aztec Verbena information is below.

http://www.ballhort.com/Growers/plant_info.aspx?phid=063402210010417&dispmode=

I leave in the Berkshires (zip code 01266), I am planning on planting 500 Dahlietta plants, in a garden bed. If I want to keep them for through the winter, can I plant them in their plastic containers, and with the first frost move them to plastic covered nursery? should I take them out of the containers?

Ball Hort Editor — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 09:43:00 GMT

Abstract:

If you plant your dahlias in their containers, it reduces the size of the plants because the roots do not have a chance to expand. This will also stunt the growth of the tuber, which is what you would use to overwinter the plant. If the tuber is small, the chances of overwintering is slim.

Plant your dahlias in the ground without the pots and care for them normally. After the "crown" of the plant dies from the first couple frosts, you can dig them up. But be sure to remove them before the ground freezes, otherwise the roots will be frozen and they will not survive the winter in your greenhouse.

Please be aware that Dahlietta Dahlias were developed and bred to be a seasonal annual and are mostly meant for containers and planters instead of mass plantings. You can try to overwinter them, but not all of them may survive.

For more information about Dahlietta Dahlias, visit the Plant Search.

My Wave Petunias are wilting, but they are still green. What could be the problem?

Ball Hort Editor — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 05:45:00 GMT

Abstract:

One reason why your Wave Petunias are dying could be because of the root system. Sometimes, when a plant is transplanted in the ground when the temperature is still cool, the roots may not develop properly, causing a “stunted” plant. In this instance, new roots have problems developing, too.

Another possibility is that the roots received too much moisture, so the roots could have rotted. In this case, it would not be surprising that the plant wilted and may eventually die.

The good news is you don't have to give up and dig out your plants. To avoid additional problems with the roots, try to transplant them to another part of your garden in soil that is not too wet or dry. If the plants are slow to bounce back, apply an all-purpose fertilizer to encourage growth. As always, follow the instructions on the label.

My Wave Petunias are dying! What's wrong with them?

Ball Hort Editor — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 05:45:00 GMT

Abstract:

If this happens, you may be alarmed at first, but there are some simple solutions to help them bounce back. We’ve found that rotating bed plantings every year and replacing the soil in containers minimizes the loss of plants.

Plus, Wave Petunias are heavy "feeders.” If possible, mix a tablespoon of dry or slow-release fertilizer with the soil or into the hole when you are planting your Wave Petunias. This will provide constant food as the plant grows. If you are using a standard fertilizer, like Miracle Gro®, try fertilizing twice as often as usual to promote new growth. However, even after increasing the fertilizer, it may take as long as 10 to 14 days to see significant growth throughout.

Also, make sure the soil remains moist. The plants should not be so dry that they start to wilt. Wilting is not only a sign of the plant needing water, but can also mean that the roots are dying. The best practice for watering is to test the soil by poking your finger down in the soil at least 2.5 to 3 in. If it's still moist, you do not need to w

i just bought a six pack of Marguerite Sweet Potato Vine. I thought it was a vegetable, but now i am thinking it is an ornamental. I couldnt find any info on it on your website... although your website was on the lable.i am not sure if i spelled Marguerite correctly.

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 09:13:00 GMT

Abstract:

Sweet Potato Vine is not a vegetable, but an ornamental vining plant. The class name is Ipomoea and we do have a couple listed on our web site. However, the variety you have - Marguerite - is not on our web site, so here are a couple basic care tips:

Ipomoea (or Sweet Potato Vine) is a trailing, vining plant, so it is mostly grown as a groundcover or over walls and trellises.
Marguerite has bright green foliage. Other Ipomoea varieties range from purple to variegated (patterned) leaves.
Ipomoea is very heat and humidity tolerant.
It mostly performs as an annual, but is a perennial in USDA Zones 8 to 11.
In the garden, it spreads to about 9 to 18 in. (23 to 45 cm).

Have "Samba Bi-ColorPurslane Portulaca your #BD1521 Seeking official information to reference with my garden club. Purchased same plant last year also. Additional How to winter/propogate/etc. Awesome blooms from original then migrates back to smaller multicolor standard.???

Ball Hort Editor — Tue, 27 May 2008 12:31:00 GMT

Abstract:

Although Ball does not produce Samba Bi-Color Purslane, we do distribute the plants through a network of suppliers. Robrick Nursery is a rooting station that grows the plants and ships them to our professional greenhouse grower customers.

They have some basic care information on their web site about the Samba series, although they are not currently showing the Bi-Color variety. However, growing information is the same for all colors in a plant series. Here is the link to their web site: http://www.robrick.com/plants/plant_information.asp?ref=166&plant=Purslane-Peppermint-Samba#plant_information

Purslane as a whole are extremely drought tolerant plants and love the heat and humidity of the Summer months. They are pretty low-maintenance and are still a very attractive plant.

As far as propagating this plant goes, many times the plant does not perform the same from year to year if it is self-propagated (meaning someone takes cuttings from their plants). Most of the time, it is better to buy new plants because you are ensured that these come directly from the "stock" plants grown in professional greenhouses, like Robrick Nursery. Your plants will perform better and will be less likely to change bloom color.

Have a second home in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Looking to replace Lantana with Verbena as boarder plant. Does it bloom all winter long in Florida? Will this be a perennial as the Lantana is.?

Ball Hort Editor — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:58:00 GMT

Abstract:

If you're looking to replace Lantana, Verbena is a good choice in Florida. It blooms for most of the Winter months there and will also survive the harsh heat and humidity from March to November. However, Verbena is not considered a perennial in Florida or anywhere else in the continental United States.

The best Verbena to use in hot 'n humid Florida is Aztec Verbena. It withstands extreme temperatures better than many other series on the market and is more disease tolerant. (Many Verbena varieties tend to get Powdery Mildew during humid conditions, but Aztec is more tolerant of this type of disease.)

For more information about Aztec Verbena, visit the Simply Beautiful web site.

i have a dark eyes fuchsia just wanted some info. thanks

Ball Hort Editor — Fri, 16 May 2008 11:15:00 GMT

Abstract:

We feature Fuchsias in our gardens every year - usually in hanging baskets. They perform best in morning sun and afternoon shade and we make sure to water them about two to three times a week.

We also add Miracle Gro fertilizer to the soil every two weeks. This will help your Dark Eyes Fuchsia to thrive, but be sure to follow the instructions on the label when using any type of plant fertilizer.

can I keep a magilla purple plant indoors for the winter.If so how do I care for it . THANK YOU

Ball Hort Editor — Fri, 16 May 2008 11:11:00 GMT

Abstract:

Yes, Magilla Perilla is very similar to a Coleus in that it will thrive indoors as well as out.

During the Winter months, place your Magilla Perilla in a bright sunny window and make sure it stays warm. It requires temperatures over 50F (10C), so be sure to place it near a window that is not drafty window as it may harm your plant.

You may also notice some flower stems start to grow on your Magilla Perilla while it is inside. As with Coleus, Perilla flowers under days that have less light.

What is your recommendation for watering during a heat wave in southern California? Most of my flower beds face east and are up against the house in front and only get morning sun until about 1pm. Some flowerbeds get full sun until 6:30pm and Ive planted heat tolerant plants there: salvia, lavender, euphorbia, and purple fountain grass. Its THIS bed that Im afraid to water because last summer I killed a lot of plants by my watering methods. I usually water at night since it is cooler. Please tel

Ball Hort Editor — Fri, 16 May 2008 11:05:00 GMT

Abstract:

First, it depends if you are planting them for the first time or if they are established. If you are planting them for the first time, they will require more watering during the first growing season. Once the plants are established, you only need to water as needed - when the soil is dry and crumbles in your hand.

Also, it depends on the type of soil you have. If you have sandy soil, you need to water more frequently because sand does not retain moisture. Clay soils don't need as much water since they hold moisture better.

It is good that you water at night when the temps are cooler, however, at our facility in Santa Paula, California, we water in the morning just in case the nighttime temperatures are expected to be high.

mona Lavender- plectranthus, 1. is this plant an annual 2. will this plant grow in a home

Ball Hort Editor — Tue, 13 May 2008 09:56:00 GMT

Abstract:

Mona Lavender Plectranthus usually grows as an annual, however, areas in USDA Hardiness Zone 9 or higher, it will grow as a temperate perennial.

Also, Mona Lavender will grow well indoors, however, it usually does not flower when kept as a houseplant because it needs very high light conditions for blooms to grow. But the dark green foliage still makes it a very attractive and unique houseplant.

For additional care tips, visit the Simply Beautiful web site.

i have some left over mums from last fall,tey are about 18 tall can i take cuttings from these and root them and if so when is the right time, as well as howw do i keep them in such a way that they turn out to be beautiful this fall

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 05 May 2008 05:26:00 GMT

Abstract:

Because each Mum variety is protected by United States plant patents, self propagation of these plants is not allowed. The only way for professional greenhouse growers to propagate mums is to buy cuttings directly from Ball Horticultural Company. Ball distributes mum cuttings exclusively to wholesale greenhouse growers.

If you are a professional greenhouse grower and would like to purchase mum cuttings, contact your local Ball sales representative or call 800-879-BALL.

you use to have wonderful "paint by number" recipes for pots and containers. i cant seem to find these anymore. your assistance is appreciated

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 08:54:00 GMT

Abstract:

During the past few years, the Plant By Number program has been improved to be part of the Simply Beautiful program. As part of Simply Beautiful, our container program includes more combination ideas that offer more specific information, such as warm or cool season.

For planting combination ideas, visit the container section of the Simply Beautiful web site. There you'll find planting diagrams, photos of the finished product and additional care tips.

I have some yellowing in my putunias maybe to much watering or short on iorn how much sprint in 100 gal of water i forgot maybe ph is out of whack thanks Dan

Ball Hort Editor — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 11:57:00 GMT

Abstract:

Petunias are very sensitive to high media pH. If the media pH
is too high (>6.4), it can cause iron deficiency and result in the
younger leaf chlorosis. Here are some solutions to correct the problem:

Check media pH. Iron deficiency is common in "iron in-efficient" crops,
like petunias, grown at high media pH (>6.4) with normal fertilization
practices. The best solution is not to have the problem in the first
place by keeping the media pH of susceptible crops below 6.0. Other
options include increasing the overall fertilizer concentration (also
increases applied iron levels), supplemental drenches with iron chelates
(either iron-DTPA or iron- EDDHA at 2.5 oz./100 gallons as needed, or
foliar spraying iron with iron- EDTA at 6 oz./100 gallons.

Iron deficiency can be focused on any crop if the pH is high enough. Be
extremely careful about using supplemental iron drenches with "iron
efficient" crops like geraniums or marigolds.

If media pH is acceptable, then check the frequency of the fertilizer
application and the concentration of iron in the water-soluble
fertilizer to see if it is sufficient for the crop. In addition, if the
temperature is too low (below 55F) or media is too wet, it will also impact iron
absorption.

Hi. Is there a basic rule of thumb for (ie. when and how many times) for pinching bedding plants in greenhouse production?Thank you, Angie KoeblerLead Landscaper City of Saint Paul

Ball Hort Editor — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 10:23:00 GMT

Abstract:

It depends on which crop you are growing. Most seed varieties do not require pinching in greenhouse production. If you are referring to a vegetaive cutting, please visit the "Vegetative" page in the "Quick Culture" section. Details about pinching and other greenhouse production information can be found in the Annual Culture Chart.

Click here to go directly to the Vegetative Culture page.

When would you sow viola ebaby bingoi? What is its crop time for 4" pots? Stage 1 germination? Cover the seeds? Light needed for germination? Stage 2 germination? Stage 3 germination? Stage 4 germination? Temperature? fertilizer? Height Control? DIF? plant growth Regulators?

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 12:09:00 GMT

Abstract:

For growing/culture information on Baby Bingo Pansies, you can refer to the culture sheet located in the Seed section under "Quick Culture." Scroll down until you get to Pansy and select the checkmark for Bingo & Panola.

Click here to go directly to the Quick Culture page.

How do I get my business listed on the web site?

Ball Hort Editor — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 06:45:00 GMT

Abstract:

To add your business information to our database, the process is very similar for growers and retailers. For growers, they can select which products they grow to help retailers pinpoint what they would like to carry in their stores. In turn, retailers can select which products they sell so home gardeners can find exactly what they're looking for, driving more traffic to the garden center.

It's easy to create an account in the Add Your Business section. You can click on the link in the left-hand menu or through the box located on the right side of your screen. Please note: If you have more than one location and/or business type (i.e., commercial grower and retail garden center), you will need to create a separate accrount for each one.

First, fill in your business information in the fields provided. Please note that required information is indicated with a *. Click "Continue."
The next screen will prompt you to include your web site address and company logo, if you choose. This part is optional. Click either "Skip" or "Continue."
Here, you are required to let us know which products you grow or sell. This information is important as it will allow your customers to easily find details on specific products. Click "Continue."
Next, you'll be able to create your own unique UserNamer and Password. Click "Continue" when you are done.
The next page will let you know that your business has been added to our database, however, we need you to officially activate your account to ensure legitimacy. Click the "Submit" button and you will receive an instant email that will allow you to activate your account.
Once you receive the email, click on the Activation Link. Once your

My business has more than one location. Why do I have to create a separate account for each one?

Ball Hort Editor — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 06:43:00 GMT

Abstract:

We require a separate account for each location and business type for a few reasons:

Many businesses sell different products or offer different services at other locations. This would allow those companies to adjust the information for that specific location or business.
It is easier to maintain your listings in our system as separate entries.
The most important reason - this is the best way to ensure that each location displays the most up-to-date, accurate information.

Welcome to the Official Wave Petunia Knowledge Base!

Ball Hort Editor — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:44:00 GMT

Abstract:

Have a question about growing and caring for Wave Petunias? The Knowledge Base tool allows you to find answers to your questions by typing in a phrase or keyword. You can also choose from the categories in the menu on the Knowledge Base Home Page to find a list of questions pertaining to a specific topic or product.

If you don't see the answer to your inquiry, send us your question by using the submission form on the Knowledge Base Home Page. Your question will be posted to the Knowledge Base with the appropriate answer.

Does Ball have a list of top annuals for the landscape?

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:33:00 GMT

Abstract:

For a complete listing of the top-performing Ball varieties for the landscape, visit the Product Highlights page in the Landscapers section of this web site.

You can also sign up to receive the Landscape Color Solutions brochure that lists the best landscape performers from Ball through the Landscapers section as well.

Where can I find a grower in my area that carries Ball landscape products?

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:32:00 GMT

Abstract: The Find A Plant Supplier page in the Landscapers section allows you to search for a local grower by typing a zip code.

Does Ball offer only annual bedding plants?

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:31:00 GMT

Abstract: Ball offers a wide range of annuals, perennials, tropicals, and ornamental shrubs and trees. To see the variety of plants we carry, visit the Plant Search and click on one of the Quick Links.

How do I order EasyScape Plantable Pots?

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:30:00 GMT

Abstract: Ball distributes Ellepots and promotes them as EasyScape Plantable Pots to the landscape market. If you're a wholesale greenhouse grower, information on sizes and suppliers for Ellepots can be found in the Growers section under Hardgoods.

Does Ball offer a "plantable pot" and where can I purchase them?

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:30:00 GMT

Abstract:

There is more information about the EasyScape Plantable Pot in the Landscapers section of this web site.

For a list of EasyScape growers, click on the link in the Find A Plant Supplier page.

If your local grower does not provide EasyScape Plantable Pots, let us know by contacting us directly. We'll work with your preferred grower to help build your business.

Do you provide catalogs or price lists to landscapers?

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 09:25:00 GMT

Abstract:

Ball Horticultural Company is a plant breeder, producer and distributor to professional greenhouse growers. If you are a landscape designer and/or contractor, we will be happy to send you our Landscape Color Solutions brochure that lists top-performing Ball varieties. Along with that, we can send the Landscape Resource CD that contains photos and plant combinations ideas.

To receive the brochure and CD, sign up in the Landscapers section of this site.

Where can I see Ball varieties in the landscape?

Ball Hort Editor — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 09:24:00 GMT

Abstract: Ball trials its varieties at over 60 univerisity and public trial gardens throughout the U.S. and Canada. Visit the Trial Locations page for a complete list of our trial sites.

Which hotels are located near Ball headquarters?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:47:00 GMT

Abstract:

St. Charles, Illinois 60174
Country Inn & Suites - 155 38th Avenue
Phone 630 587-6564
Fax: 630 587-6568

Fairfield Inn & Suites - 2096 Bricher Road
Phone: 630 845-5500

Hilton Garden Inn - 4070 East Main Street (Route 64)
Phone: 630 584-0700
Fax: 630 762-9152

Hotel Baker - 100 West Main Street (Route 64)
Phone: 630 584-2100
Fax: 630 584-0834

Holiday Inn Express - 1600 East Main Street (Route 64)
Phone: 630 584-5300
Fax: 630 584-5395

Marriott of St. Charles - 700 Courtyard Drive
Phone: 630 377-6370
Fax: 630 377-6709

Pheasant Run Resort & Spa - 4051 East Main Street (Route 64)
Phone: 630 584-6300
Fax: 630 584-4693

Quality Inn of St. Charles - 100 South Tyler Road
Phone: 630 513-6500
Fax: 630 513-6501

Geneva, Illinois 60134
Comfort Inn - 1555 East Fabyan Parkway
Phone: 630 208-8811

Naperville, Illinois 60563
Fairfield Inn & Suites - 1847 West Diehl Road
Phone: 630 548-0966
Fax: 630 548-0966

Homestead Village Naperville - 1827 Centre Point Circle
Phone: 630 577-0200
Fax: 630 577-0260

Sleep Inn - 1831 West Diehl Road
Phone: 630 778- 5900
Fax: 630 778-1441

When can I visit the Gardens at Ball?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:40:00 GMT

Abstract: Visits to the Gardens at Ball are made by appointment only. Please contact Customer Service at 800 879-BALL for more information.

Where is Ball located?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:39:00 GMT

Abstract:

Ball Horticultural Company's corporate headquarters are located at 622 Town Road in West Chicago, Illinois, 60185. This is also the location of our extensive trial gardens that are open on a limited basis during the Summer months.

Ball also has production and distribution companies in North America, South America, Europe, South Africa, Australia and Asia. For more information on these locations, visit the Contact Us page.

Where can I get photos of Ball plants for my own marketing materials, web site, signage, etc.?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:29:00 GMT

Abstract:

Many of our grower, retailer and landscape customers ask if they can use Ball plant photography for marketing and promotion of their business. And the answer is...absolutely!

We can provide images of many of our products for use in direct mail pieces, flyers, catalogs, web pages and more. If we have the images - and they are property of Ball Horticultural Company - we can send them directly to you either electronically or on a CD.

To request photography of Ball products, contact Lora Lee Saracino (630-588-3319, lsaracino@ballhort.com) or Ginny Kovach (630-588-3164, gkovach@ballhort.com) in the Image Archive Library.

How does Ball work with independent garden centers?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:27:00 GMT

Abstract: For more than 100 years, Ball has supported independent garden centers and their suppliers with innovative products and programs. Ball offers the best in plant genetics, as well as programs like Simply Beautiful and Circle of Life.

Is Simply Beautiful offered at big box stores?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:26:00 GMT

Abstract:

No. Simply Beautiful is 100% exclusive to independent garden centers. The program includes the best plant varieties from Ball, presented in a consistent, branded package. Simply Beautiful pots and tags drive consumer recognition at the store level with national PR campaigns and a consumer web site building awareness with gardeners of all ages and skill levels.

I've heard of Simply Beautiful - can you explain the program?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:25:00 GMT

Abstract: Simply Beautiful is a national program for independent garden centers. The tagline, "Long-lasting color. Simple to choose. Simple to use." says it all. Simply Beautiful plants are selected to make the consumer experience a successful one. With hundreds of varieties, the program offers excitement for all garden places and is perfect for novice and master gardeners, alike.

Does Ball sell plants to home gardeners?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:25:00 GMT

Abstract:

Ball sells seed and other plant products to commercial greenhouse growers. We do not have direct-to-consumer sales, however, home gardeners can buy our plant varieties from many retail garden centers throughout North America.

To find a retailer in their area, home gardeners can visit the Simply Beautiful or Wave Petunia web site to search by zip code. They can also find Ball plants through mail-order companies, like Burpee, Park Seed and White Flower Farm.

Check out the links below to visit these helpful home grower web sites!

Where can I find Ball Rooting Stations?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:24:00 GMT

Abstract:

Growers can order high-quality, disease-free rooted cuttings from a wide range of rooting stations across the U.S. and Canada. For a complete listing and to find a rooting station in your area, visit the Rooting Stations page in the Growers section.

How do I track my order?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:23:00 GMT

Abstract:

Your order history and status can be tracked through WebTrack. You will need your Customer Number and password to access the site.

Once you're in WebTrack, you can click on the "Order Status" button to look at orders previously placed. Orders are searchable by supplier, order number and ship date. Click on the sales order number to see details of that order. Shipment tracking numbers are also available, however, please note that not all orders will have tracking information.

Click on the link below to go directly to WebTrack.

When will my order be shipped?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:22:00 GMT

Abstract: Your order history and status can be tracked through WebTrack. You will need your Customer Number and password to access the site.

Click on the link below to go directly to WebTrack.

Who is my Ball Sales Representative?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:21:00 GMT

Abstract:

Ball provides over 55 of the most qualified and service-oriented sales representatives in the industry to help professional growers across North America. Each one is dedicated to providing the best programs and products to growers and independent garden centers throughout his or her territory.

If you do not have a Ball Sales Representative or need contact information for a rep in your area, visit the Sales Representatives page in the Growers section. You can also call 800 879-BALL to talk to a member of our Customer Service team.

How do I request a Ball catalog?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:20:00 GMT

Abstract: To order a Ball catalog, you can call us directly at 800-879-BALL or email us through the Contact Us page. A Ball Team Member will fulfill your request and you should receive your catalog(s) within seven business days.

Why aren't there prices on the Ball web site?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:08:00 GMT

Abstract:

For the most competitive, up-to-date pricing, the best person to ask would be your Ball Sales Representative. They are highly qualified to assist in developing special programs, crop forecasts and fine tuning price structures that will suit each grower's needs. All of the prices are based on plant volume and current industry costs and Ball strives to be as competitive as possible with the prices for all of our products.

To find a Ball Sales Representative in your area, visit the Sales Representatives page in the Growers section.

What are your supplier minimums?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:06:00 GMT

Abstract:

These vary by supplier, crop and form. The best way to find out about order minimums is to contact the Customer Service Team directly so a representative can provide you with the most up-to-date availability and supplier information.

To contact one of our Customer Service Representatives, call 1-800-879-BALL or email us through the Contact Us link in the menu below.

Which plants are being offered for programs from Lowe''s, Home Depot, Wal-Mart and other "big box" stores?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:05:00 GMT

Abstract: To find out which varieties are being offered in national big box stores, contact the buyer from these stores for updated information.

Who are the preferred suppliers for Ball branded pots and packaging?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:04:00 GMT

Abstract:

Ball partners with plastics suppliers to manufacture branded pots and packaging for in-store displays.

Visit the P.O.P./Merchandising page in the Retailers section of this web site or refer to the PDF attachment to find a pot supplier and place your order.

Does Ball still offer the mint green Simply Beautiful 6-Pack?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:38:00 GMT

Abstract:

The mint green Simply Beautiful packaging is no longer available, however, there is a 6-pack with a handle that reflects the new Simply Beautiful look.

Do I need to use a plant tag with the Shock Wave 9-Pack?

Ball Hort Editor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:37:00 GMT

Abstract:

We do recommend using a plant tag in conjunction with the Shock Wave Pink 9-Pack because is there no care instructions on the pack handle. Growers can use a "generic" Shock Wave tag - it does not have to be color specific.