WEST CHICAGO, IL – Since launching Black Velvet and its companion petunias Phantom and Pinstripe at Spring Trials in 2010, consumer media interest has surrounded these unique varieties bred by Ball FloraPlant. Here are just a few of the high-profile media hits:

Phantom is the featured cover product for Garden Gate magazine’s April issue. Phantom was also featured in Midwest Living (February) and will appear in an upcoming Better Homes & Gardens issue (April).

Black Velvet has been showcased in Birds & Blooms (January), several State-by-State Gardening publications (October) and The American Gardener (Jan/Feb).

“The uniqueness of Black Velvet, Phantom and Pinstripe, along with the media interest we’ve had and expect to continue, assures these plants will receive a high amount of consumer demand this spring and through to fall,” said Monique Hakkert, product marketing manager for Ball FloraPlant. “We’re encouraging our customers to ride this wave of interest and impact their sales now.”

Ball FloraPlant has developed merchandising tips, DIY downloadable signage and interactive display resources that showcase Black Velvet and build excitement in the store. Greenhouses and retailers can find these resources online www.ballhort.com/BlackVelvet.

To place immediate orders for Black Velvet, Phantom and Pinstripe, and to access culture documents and a growing video library, visit www.BallFloraPlant.com.