BREAKING: The All-America Selections (AAS) has just announced its highly anticipated winners for the 2026 gardening season, highlighting the most innovative and resilient flowers and vegetables for home gardeners. This annual reveal, a tradition since 1932, showcases varieties that excel in performance and uniqueness.
Why This Matters: As gardening becomes increasingly popular, these award-winning varieties promise to transform landscapes and home gardens across the globe. With the ongoing trends of urban gardening and sustainable practices, the introduction of these new plants is crucial for both novice and experienced gardeners seeking beauty and productivity.
Among the standout winners is the Coreopsis SunGlobe, impressing judges with its vibrant golden yellow blooms and compact growth, perfect for container gardening. This perennial reaches a height of just 12 inches, making it ideal for garden edges or pots.
The Dianthus Supra Cherry Picotee also caught attention, showcasing profuse, eye-catching blooms that boast heat and drought tolerance. With a bushy form and a height of 12 inches, this annual promises three seasons of spectacular color with minimal upkeep.
Another highlight is the Heliopsis Sole Giatto, a perennial that stands 20 inches tall and is covered with bright yellow flowers from early summer to fall. Its resistance to deer and rabbits makes it a perfect fit for diverse garden settings.
The Rudbeckia Claire Orange presents an abundance of vibrant orange blooms, with judges noting its impressive vigor and heat tolerance. At 12 inches, it’s well-suited for both containers and flower beds.
Also making the list is the Sedum Spectacular, a winter-hardy perennial that grows to about 14 inches. Its tight habit and light pink flowers make it a delightful addition to any garden, thriving even in hot, dry conditions.
In the vegetable category, the Kale Rubybor stands out as a first for AAS, winning accolades in both ornamental and vegetable trials. Its deep purple foliage not only enhances aesthetics but also offers a continuous harvest of tender greens.
The Winter Squash Butter Lamp, with its mini pumpkin shape, delivers sweet, buttery flesh while occupying less space than traditional varieties. Meanwhile, the Tomato BadaBing offers gardeners a larger cherry tomato option with exceptional flavor and disease resistance.
As home gardening continues to thrive, these newly announced varieties are set to inspire gardeners everywhere. The AAS winners can be found in seed catalogs and plant tags, identified by their recognizable red, white, and blue logo.
What’s Next: Gardeners are encouraged to seek out these award-winning plants to enhance their gardens in 2026. With their proven performance, these selections promise to not only beautify spaces but also contribute to sustainable gardening practices.
Stay tuned for more updates on gardening trends and tips as the season approaches. Happy gardening!
