Summer trials of annuals, perennials, and herbs were planted at 4 test sites in Tennessee. Performance was evaluated in July, August and September. Summaries of species evaluations were distributed to supporting seed companies as well as at commercial grower meetings. (TAES Research Report 97-11). In August 1996, winter trial varieties were planted at 2 test sites in Tennessee. Data were collected in April '97. Summaries were distributed to supporting seed companies as well as at commercial grower meetings. The winter variety trails for '97-98 have been planted at 3 test sites. Fall garden performance data on flower production, color uniformity, flower size, and overall landscape appeal were collected the week of December 15. Spring evaluations will be done in February, March, and April of '98. In May, a research study on zinnia disease suppression integrating chemical and cultural management strategies was initiated. The overall objective is to determine whether cultivar selection and cultural practices during commercial production as well as in the landscape can affect the development and suppression of three diseases: Alternaria zinnia, Erysiphe cichoracearum, and Xanthomonas campestris pv. zinniae on the popular bedding plant and cutflower, Zinnia elegans. This project consists of four studies: 1) isolation of disease pathogens from Z. elegans seeds, 2) pregermination seed treatment, 3) field irrigation practices, and 4) field variety trials. The study is ongoing.