The poinsettia trials at the UNH Research Greenhouses in Durham not only show off dozens of varieties of the popular seasonal flowers in a dazzling variety of colors, but also demonstrate the fruits of collaborative research that will help local poinsettia growers cut energy costs.

UNH researchers, in conjunction with researchers at Purdue University, are exploring methods for growing poinsettias at temperatures lower than currently recommended. This "cool finish" poinsettia research will provide growers with guidelines for producing a poinsettia crop with as much as 20 percent lower heating costs, according to Extension Greenhouse/Floriculture Specialist Brian Krug.

Read the Washington Post article for more information on the new production methods.

Photo credit: David Goudreault, University of New Hampshire