The Raker Trial Gardens will open on July 18, 2012 at the Raker facility in Litchfield, Mich. C. Raker & Sons Inc. uses the Trial Gardens to evaluate new varieties in side-by-side comparison trails, research existing varieties and share the data with horticulture professionals and the gardening public. Trial data collected from the five acres of grounds is gathered every two weeks starting in late June. The data is posted on the trial garden website and generally includes height, spread, overall performance rating and images.

The Raker Trial Gardens feature an annual row trial, alternatives for shade, 14-inch hanging basket trial, sponsor beds and rows, hanging baskets and container showcase areas, the All-America Selections (AAS) Trial Ground and Display Gardens, AAS Summit and facility tours. The Raker Trial Gardens take place July 18 to August 31. Grounds are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

To learn more about the event, visit trialgardens.raker.com.