United by Proteas - California 2025

Join us for an unforgettable experience! The XX International Protea Association Conference & XV International Protea Research Symposium ‘United by Proteas’ is slated for March 30 – April 4, 2025, in California.

Who Should Attend? Whether you're a farmer, researcher, educator or simply passionate about proteas, this Conference is designed for anyone eager to learn more about this amazing plant family and stay ahead in today's rapidly evolving floriculture industry.

Together, we’ll:

• Explore the latest trends in the protea industry from top experts.
• Connect with professionals and forge valuable partnerships. 
• Participate in interactive sessions to enhance your skills. 
• Gain insights and knowledge from IPA & ISHS experts from around the world.

Call for Speakers and Sponsors: We are currently accepting speaker proposals and sponsorship opportunities. Showcase your expertise or promote your brand to a global audience of professionals. For more information - https://www.ishs.org/sites/default/files/page-documents/onlinesubmissionauthorsguide.pdf

Ready to help shape the future of proteas?

Learn more about this event and secure your spot! 

Visit: proteaconference2025.org for details and updates.

See you at the Temecula Creek Inn!

California Grown Flowers Month

Spread the word…. June is California Grown Flowers Month!

For the seventh year in a row, the California Legislature is honoring the state’s flower farmers and recognizing their contributions to the state’s economy and workforce by declaring June as California Grown Flowers Month. The resolution highlights California’s leading role in flower-farming and the economic impact it has on the floral industry.

The industry has blossomed since its inception back in the late 1870s. Statewide flowers are grown across 701 million square feet, spanning the distance from San Diego through the Inland Empire to Carpinteria and north all the way to the Oregon border. California farmers produce three-quarters of the cut flowers in the United States, provide over a 100,000 of jobs and account for a total of $12.2 billion in economic activity every year.

Share the LOVE....California Grown!

A Floral Feast at the End of Rainbow

The 2018 American Grown Field to Vase Dinner Tour made its first stop of the season in Fallbrook, CA on a glorious spring day. These amazing dinners are fun and quite informative and of course, they allow you to cozy up to more flowers than you could ever imagine! The idea behind these ‘floral feasts’ is to bring America’s Flower Farming Families and the surrounding community together for a relaxing and enjoyable evening, all while becoming a bit more informed about agriculture and the importance of buying local.

Resendiz Brothers is located just east of the Southern California coast where a light sea breeze mixed with steep, rugged terrain will never leave you the same. Guests dined on a remote pad situated high up in the hills of Rainbow where colorful pincushions were blooming as far as the eye could see.

During the reception guests mingled while sipping on champagne and nibbling on savory hors d’oeuvres of Endive Spears, Spicy Gingered Carrot Soup and Agave Glazed Pork Belly prepared by Chef Teegan Smith, of Crown Point Catering.

Guests were encouraged to create their own unique floral accessories at a boutonniere bar, make friends with two adorable kids (goats, of course) and to take advantage of the fabulous floral photo props… the limo and a rustic motorcycle cart filled with awesome blossoms, protea wreaths and incredible views.

Special name cards were created and tucked tightly in Banksia integrifolia cones, so guest could save their favorite spot at the table.

Dinner began with a pre-set Bibb Lettuce Salad with the rest of the meal being served Family Style. Platters of Boneless Short Rib with Smoked Gouda Yukon Gold Mash, Farm Ratatouille, Creamy Polenta and fresh Vegetables were passed down the table and savored by all. Geyser Peak Winery provided the red and white wine that perfectly complimented every dish. Truly a fabulous feast.

The evening ended with abundance of ‘Dinner Favors’, swag bags full of floral treats, protea bouquets and even the centerpieces and wreaths going home with everyone.

To see all the upcoming dates and locations for the next Field to Vase Dinners click here. If you are anywhere near these locations, don’t miss the experience!