Plants aren’t only for food; some are meant for decoration and to make the world a more beautiful place. From flowers to colourful glass corn, these plants are meant to be displayed. When you start focusing on the physical attributes of a plant, it changes the breeding world.
On the June 21 episode of Seed Speaks, we’re taking a closer look at why consumers want decorative plants and what it takes to create these beautiful specimens. We’re joined by Diane Blazek, executive director of the National Garden Bureau and All-American Selections, Lisa Lacy, director of product management for PanAmerican Seed, and Ryan Hall, head of Syngenta Flowers for the Americas.
Blazek grew up on a small family farm in Missouri. She spent 15 years with Ball Publishing, before moving to her current role with the National Garden Bureau and All-American Selections. Both organizations are going through a period of growth and influence. Innovative ideas and progressive programs for consumers, garden communicators, public gardens, and a full range of growers and retailers have benefited all segments of the horticulture industry.
Lacy is a graduate of Iowa State University and started her career with Ball Seed in the seed department in Chicago, Ill. Prior to joining PanAmerican Seed, she worked at Syngenta Flowers, as a regional product representative and as a senior product manager. Since joining PanAmerican Seed in 2004, Lacy has been a part of the product development department, most recently in the role director of product management.
Hall is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the horticulture industry. As the head of Syngenta Flowers America’s region, he plays a key role in driving business growth and setting strategic direction. With a bachelor of science in environmental horticultural science from California Polytechnic State University, Hall brings a wealth of expertise in plant genetics. He enjoys sharing valuable insights on product development, market trends, and the transformative power of innovative plant genetics.
