Northern Mecca Daylily Garden Tour

06/13/2024

I just finished preparing a 100-hour PowerPoint presentation for tomorrow's start of ADS National Convention. Five lucky attendees will go home with these prizes( $6,850) for listening to my talk about daylily ploidy, genome size, and plant conversion methods. Got to get up at 4am to head to airport. Thanks that granddaughter Taylor will be watching over everything, especially all the puppys.

02/29/2024

I've just shared this on our Facebook group, Daylilies and Beyond. Feel free to share it further and join our community to discover more AI-generated photos like this one! Plus, you'll get to delve deeper into the art of growing and hybridizing daylilies. We'd love to have you join us!

Hybridizing daylilies can indeed be a creative process that requires imagination and a vision for the desired outcome, much like an artist envisioning their final piece of art. By blending different plant traits through hybridization, one can create new and unique varieties that reflect their creative vision, resulting in a lasting contribution to the world of our daylily. Show us your ai artwork. What do you want to create in your lifetime? Here is two of mine, going back to my Blue Eyes White Dragon, James Gossard, Heavenly Gardens.

02/23/2024

A couple of days ago, I ran a bunch of Duckweed on my Flow Cytometer for ploidy and genome size. Just one of the plant types Plant Ploidy performs analysis on. Below is just a sampling of one sample I ran. Sample identification was removed to protect client confidentiality. Ploidy of Duckweed appears to be quite variable. Sample appears octoploid, from looking at distances between internal control standard and unknown sample.. Not shown is genome result. Link to my new Facebook Plant Ploidy page is below. Besure to follow.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556482791964

I also added some additional information below on the technique.
Flow cytometry is an indispensable tool in the realm of plant biology, enabling the precise determination of ploidy levels within plant tissues. This technique revolutionizes the assessment of polyploidy, aneuploidy, and the overall genomic composition of plants. By employing fluorescent DNA-binding dyes and laser-based detection systems, flow cytometers accurately measure the DNA content of individual plant cells as they pass through the instrument's flow cell. This allows researchers to generate histograms representing the distribution of DNA content, which correlates directly with ploidy levels. Whether it's analyzing the effects of polyploidy on crop productivity or investigating the genetic diversity within natural populations, flow cytometry provides rapid, high-throughput data acquisition, making it an indispensable tool for plant geneticists and breeders alike. Additionally, its non-destructive nature allows for the preservation of valuable plant samples for further analysis or cultivation, further emphasizing its importance in advancing our understanding and manipulation of plant genomes.

02/20/2024

We've just hit the milestone of 500 members, on facebook group, Daylilies and Beyond, and it's my pleasure to announce that our 500th member is Edward Baber! As a token of our appreciation, Edward will be receiving a $100 voucher to select his preferred 2024 daylily introduction from Heavenly Gardens. This is just the beginning of our journey together, and we plan to celebrate at several other significant membership milestones in the future.
It's incredible to see the rapid growth we've achieved, reaching 500 members in just three days. This momentum speaks volumes about the enthusiasm and dedication of our community. I extend heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for joining us on this exciting venture.
I'm particularly thrilled to note that our group boasts a wealth of expertise, from top-tier hybridizers to experts in various other fields. Together, we form a powerhouse of knowledge and talent, and I can't wait to see the incredible collaborations and insights that emerge from our collective efforts.
Edward, the link to your daylily is below. Let us know what you picked and why.

2024 Daylily introductions hybridized by James Gossard of Heavenly Gardens in Columbus, Ohio.

02/14/2024

Happy Valentines Day to my Daylily Friends, James Gossard

02/12/2024

I wanted to share this photo showcasing the debut of Alligator Alley, a stunning addition to the world of daylilies. Using Adobe Firefly, I transformed the bloom into the captivating image you see under the name. I did this to offer a glimpse into the mind of a hybridizer, such as myself. While it's certainly possible to experiment with Alligator Alley's colors and patterns, the true challenge lies in elevating it to the next level.

To achieve this, one must first conceive of the possibilities in their mind's eye. Ponder the various types of daylilies to cross with in order to unlock its full potential. This post serves as an encouragement for you to unleash your creativity, to dare to dream and think outside the box. Sometimes, it's the subtle addition of a tooth on the side of a flower or a shift in coloration that can make all the difference.

Creating new flowers is an immensely rewarding journey, one that anyone can embark upon. While it took me nearly 30 years to bring Alligator Alley to fruition, sometimes, a breakthrough can happen in just one generation. So, let this inspire you to explore, experiment, and bring your daylily dreams to life.

Alligator Alley

(Gossard, James) 2024 introduction

(Cynder The Dragon) x (Alpha Shark)

Seedling number 682-19

Tetraploid 30" Mid Late Season Dormant emo Fragrant 8.5" 3-4 way branching 15-20 buds. Fertile both ways. Rebloomer. Unusual Form Type : Crispate Very good rust resistance. USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 4-10.

The flowers boast a captivating hue of purple, adorned with a lighter rose-purple eye and a distinctive green throat. Both sepals and petals are embellished with an intriguing array of white teeth, hooks, tentacles, and fangs. To date, this particular variety, known as Alligator Alley, stands out as my favorite and most exceptional. I am yet to encounter another daylily with such narrow and pronounced teeth that rivals the uniqueness of Alligator Alley. Upon close examination, the sheer number of teeth on the flower is truly remarkable, surpassing any expectations I could have envisioned. For those dedicated to breeding narrow, toothy daylilies or exploring undefinable types, this cultivar is an absolute must-have. The lineage of Alligator Alley traces back to both of my creations, Cynder The Dragon and Alpha Shark. Cynder The Dragon is a strikingly beautiful daylily reminiscent of a fire-breathing creature, adorned with gold and white Dragon Fangs and claws along the edges of her petals and sepals. Her sepals exhibit strong dimensional color with stippling, and her blooms, always unique, sometimes twist and turn like dragon wings. A vivid yellow-green flame emerges from her throat, complementing her magenta pigmentation. Cynder The Dragon has proven to be a secret weapon in producing extraordinary offspring, evident in the numerous promising progenies it has yielded. Crossing Cynder The Dragon with Alpha Shark, another remarkable toothy daylily of mine, elevates the lineage to the next level. My genetics align seamlessly with undefinable-type daylilies, possibly due to the higher ploidy level of Undefinable compared to tetraploids (results obtained from Plantploidy.com). Alligator Alley, Cynder The Dragon, Alpha Shark, Vampire Fish, Heavenly New Frontiers, and Wolverine all fall within the pentaploid to hexaploid range. Alligator Alley, in addition to being an incredible parent in breeding programs, also serves as a captivating garden cultivar. Notably, it exhibits a rare Unusual Form Type: Crispate. For hybridizers, this daylily presents an excellent candidate for furthering breeding programs. If you are a gardening enthusiast, it might be prudent to wait for a potential price adjustment, but rest assured, Alligator Alley will undoubtedly enhance your landscaping. Its distinct characteristics also position it as a promising contender for show flowers, adding an extra layer of allure to its overall appeal.

For pricing details and a glimpse of my other 2024 James Gossard daylily introductions, explore the following link https://www.heavenlygardens.com/2024%20introductions.htm Elevate your garden with the unparalleled beauty of Alligator Alley.

02/03/2024

Introducing the highlight of the day, Dancing Swans, a remarkable tetraploid daylily crafted by James Gossard in 2024. The blooms feature a captivating chartreuse near-white hue with a yellow ruffled edge, complemented by a deep green throat extending three-quarters onto the petals. Boasting a substantial substance and a generous sprinkling of diamond dust, Dancing Swans exudes elegance.

Upon its initial bloom, it was evident that Dancing Swans would be a noteworthy introduction, resembling graceful swans engaged in a dance within my garden. This exceptional daylily traces its lineage back to our Love One Another, specifically bred for green flowers, and includes both tetra Rose F. Kennedy and tetra Emerald Starburst in its pedigree.

Notably, the impressive Guy's Swan Song, a creation of Guy Pierce, is part of its parentage, further connecting to tetra Rose F. Kennedy. With the infusion of triple genes of green from two doses of tetra Rose F. Kennedy and a dose of tetra Emerald Starburst, Dancing Swans becomes an ideal candidate for hybridizing programs focused on whites and greens.

Whether you're a dedicated hybridizer or a passionate gardener, Dancing Swans is a striking addition to your landscape. Its impressive features make it not only a visually captivating flower but also a potential showstopper. For pricing details and to explore my other 2024 James Gossard daylily introductions, please follow this link. https://www.heavenlygardens.com/2024%20introductions.htm As a token of appreciation, every purchase includes a complimentary 2024 daylily introduction.
Feel free to share this post. Thanks James Gossard

Dancing Swans
(Gossard, James) 2024 introduction
(Guy's Swan Song) x (Love One Another)
Tetraploid 34" Early Midseason Semi-Evergreen emo Fragrant 7-8" flowers 3-4 way branching 18-24 buds. Fertile both ways. Rebloomer. Very good rust resistance. USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 4-10.

02/02/2024

Introducing the standout bloom of the day, the Jurassic T-Rex, a tetraploid daylily unveiled by James Gossard in 2024. This captivating flower showcases a rich wine-purple hue with an eye-catching orange throat and striking accents reminiscent of fangs, teeth, claws, and tentacles, staying true to its intriguing name.

What sets the Jurassic T-Rex apart is its distinctiveness from current daylilies, boasting an uncommon orange throat and teeth. This variation aligns with my ongoing pursuit of daylilies with red throats, aiming to introduce novel aesthetics to enthusiasts.

The lineage of this exceptional daylily traces back to our Spacecoast line, specifically bred for teeth traits. The parentage includes the impressive Spacecoast Fear the Reaper and the dynamic combination of Spacecoast Tasmanian Devil and Spacecoast Thorny Devil.

For those engaged in hybridizing, the Jurassic T-Rex offers a unique addition to your program, providing exciting possibilities for creating new and distinct varieties. If you're an avid gardener seeking a one-of-a-kind daylily to adorn your garden, look no further – the Jurassic T-Rex promises an exclusive touch that sets it apart from the rest.

Anticipate not only a striking addition to your garden but also a potential showstopper with its exceptional features. For pricing details and a glimpse of my other 2024 James Gossard daylily introductions, explore the following link https://www.heavenlygardens.com/2024%20introductions.htm Elevate your garden with the unparalleled beauty of the Jurassic T-Rex.

Jurassic T-Rex
(Gossard, James) 2024 introduction
(Spacecoast Fear the Reaper) x (Spacecoast Tasmanian Devil x Spacecoast Thorny Devil)
Tetraploid 32" Mid Late Season Semi-Evergreen emo Fragrant 5.5" 3-4 way branching 18-24 buds. Fertile both ways. Rebloomer. Very good rust resistance. USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 4-10

02/01/2024

The bloom of the day is Spacecoast Beyond Bold, a 2024 Kinnebrew/ Gossard tetraploid daylily introduction. Flowers are maroon purple with green throat and black eye, edge and small black teeth. Excellent plant habit, branching and bud count makes for a grand garden plant as well as hybridizing parent. We have been amazed at the high numbers of keepers from it. In just one cross, we got three different colored ones, all potential future introductions. Its parents are (Spacecoast Black Eye) x (Tattooed Duchess). Spacecoast Black Eye goes back to Madeline Nettles Eyes, which performs very well in the north. Many of the Spacecoast Beyond Bold kids are showing signs of dormancy in its seedlings. So, if you hybridize for smaller daylilies, possibly with teeth or patterns, here is a daylily you can use for your hybridizing program. If you’re just a gardener, and want something different, it will make a wonderful addition to your landscaping. Here is a link with pricing and my other 2024 James Gossard and John Kinnebrew daylily introductions. https://www.heavenlygardens.com/2024%20introductions.htm
Spacecoast Beyond Bold

Tetraploid 32" Early Season Semi-Evergreen emo fr 3.5-4" flowers 5-6 way branching 28-34 buds. Fertile both ways. Rebloomer.
Very good rust, leaf streak and insect resistance. USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 5-10

01/31/2024

The bloom of the day is Ghost Knight, a 2024 James Gossard tetraploid daylily introduction. Flowers are maroon with a broken patterned appliqued darker black/purple eye zone and a green throat. This is the parent of last year’s Amazon Rain. Parents are (Wild and Wacky) x (tetra Smoke Scream). Wild and Wacky has a nice, appliqued burgundy stippled lavender blue dark purple patterned eye. It was one of John Peats, he was a major hybridizer for appliqued daylilies. It goes back to a Spacecoast daylily with an applique called Catcher in the Eye, (2001 Kinnebrew). The other parent of Ghost Knight was Smoke Scream, a diploid of mine that I converted to tetraploid. Ghost Knight has a distinctive look about her. So, if you hybridize for the unusual with patterned appliques, here is a daylily you can use for your hybridizing program. Should be a great parent with the variegated, undefinable type daylilies. If you’re just a gardener, and want something different, it will make a wonderful addition to your landscaping. Here is a link with pricing and my other 2024 James Gossard daylily introductions. https://www.heavenlygardens.com/2024%20introductions.htm
Ghost Knight
(Gossard, James) 2024 introduction
Tetraploid 32" Midseason Semi-Evergreen emo Fragrant 6" flowers 3-4 way branching 18-24 buds. Fertile both ways. Rebloomer. Very good rust resistance. USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 4-10.

01/30/2024

The bloom of the day is Spacecoast Ace in the Hole, a 2024 Kinnebrew/ Gossard tetraploid daylily introduction. I'm also having some fun making some art from such. Each day keeps getting a little better. Tomorrows, i just made and its my best yet, so stay tuned. Flowers are near black with a green throat. When convention attendees at the regional last year came to the Spacecoast garden in Florida, it was one of the most wanted and talked about daylily. Many of the garden visitors said it was the blackest they have seen. Very few people have been line breeding for black. As you can see, here is a daylily with such genetics. Its parents are (Spacecoast Black Sensation) x (Spacecoast Grand Master). Spacecoast Grand Master goes back to (Spacecoast Back In Black x Spacecoast Little Red Riding Hood), which makes for a double dose of Spacecoast Black Sensation. Spacecoast Back In Black goes back to John Benz’s fabulous daylily, Paint It Black, an excellent black. Spacecoast Ace in the Hole performs very well in the north, probably the result of northern genetics and the Spacecoast parents. So, if you hybridize for black, here is a daylily you can use for your hybridizing program. If you’re just a gardener, and want something different, it will make a wonderful addition to your landscaping. Here is a link with pricing and my other 2024 James Gossard and John Kinnebrew daylily introductions. https://www.heavenlygardens.com/2024%20introductions.htm
Spacecoast Ace in the Hole

Tetraploid 26" Early Midseason Semi-Evergreen emo fr 4.5-6" flowers 3-5 way branching 20-24 buds. Fertile both ways. Rebloomer.
Very good rust, leaf streak and insect resistance. USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 5-10