When you see a beautiful new bloom, it’s easy to admire its color, shape, and fragrance without considering how it came to be. But behind the scenes, companies like Ball SB tirelessly innovate research and develop new flower varieties to bring fresh and exciting blooms to market. As one of the leading names in horticulture, Ball's research process is extensive and intricate, blending cutting-edge science with a passion for flowers.
Founded in 1905, Ball Horticultural Group has been at the forefront of plant breeding and research. With a mission to "color the world" and provide the most innovative, high-quality flowers, Ball uses a global breeding and product development approach. Their team of plant breeders, horticulturalists, and scientists works tirelessly across different regions and environments to develop flower varieties that are visually stunning, resilient, and adaptable.
The creation of a new flower variety doesn’t happen overnight. The process from concept to market can take several years of meticulous work. Ball's research begins with identifying the needs of growers, retailers, and consumers. Are growers looking for a plant that can withstand harsh climates? Do consumers want a flower with a unique color or extended bloom time? These are the types of questions that guide Ball's research efforts.
The breeding process begins once the goals for a new variety are established. Whether it’s improving disease resistance, creating unique color patterns, or extending bloom life, every trait is carefully considered and tested. The team evaluates thousands of plants during this process, narrowing it down to the most promising candidates for further development.
One of the most impressive aspects of Ball's research process is the rigorous testing each flower variety undergoes. Ball operates breeding stations and trial gardens across the globe, ensuring that their plants perform well in a wide range of climates and growing conditions. This allows them to fine-tune each variety, ensuring it thrives in diverse environments and meets the specific needs of different markets.
Blooms are tested for performance in varying temperatures, light conditions, and soil types from Europe to Asia to North and South America. The trial gardens also give Ball’s team real-world feedback on how each variety performs in appearance, longevity, and ease of care. This global approach ensures that by the time a new variety hits the market, it has already proven its durability and desirability.
Beyond creating beautiful flowers, Ball is committed to sustainability. As part of their research and breeding process, they focus on developing plants that require fewer resources, such as water and pesticides. This is increasingly important as the industry—and consumers—seek more eco-friendly options. Ball’s focus on sustainability extends beyond just the flowers themselves, as they continually look for ways to minimize the environmental impact of their growing and distribution processes.
Once a new variety has successfully passed all research, testing, and trialing stages, it’s ready for market introduction. Ball works closely with growers and distributors to ensure the new plants are readily available to professionals and consumers alike. Their global distribution network allows for seamless delivery of their innovative varieties, whether it’s to large-scale commercial growers or local garden centers.
From vibrant bedding plants to elegant cut flowers, Ball’s commitment to research and innovation continues to shape the future of horticulture. Their process brings exciting new varieties to life and ensures that each bloom meets the high standards of quality, sustainability, and beauty the company is known for.
As they look to the future, they remain focused on pushing the boundaries of flower breeding. With continued technological advancements, the possibilities for creating new and improved flower varieties are endless. At the heart of all its research is a simple goal: to bring more beauty into the world, one bloom at a time.
Ball’s innovative research process reminds us that behind every stunning bloom is a team of dedicated scientists and breeders working to ensure that the flowers we enjoy today—and tomorrow—are the best they can be.
Top Ball Products for Fall
Seasonal trends are meticulously planned, ensuring that the perfect colors and varieties are ready to shine each year. For fall, standout hues like yellow, burgundy, and orange are popular, as seen in Ball's partner collection. Flowers such as Marigold Xochi, Sweet™ Dianthus Black Cherry, Dahlia Red Stone, Dianthus Punky Ball, and their stunning sunflower varieties are the perfect highlights, making them must-haves for florists looking to create eye-catching designs this season.
Amancay Tangarine is just one of the variations in Ball’s recently launched Alstroemeria line. With its unique shades of orange, this bloom perfectly complements any fall color palette, offering florists even more options for seasonal designs. This fresh addition, along with other varieties in the Alstroemeria line, allows for creativity and versatility.
Their popularity among our members is a testament to Ball SB’s commitment to providing high-quality flowers that florists love to work with. Whether you’re creating installations or intimate designs, these blooms will bring a smile to those who receive them. Discover these beautiful blooms and a wide variety of Ball SB products in their exclusive Partner Collection on Details!