The spring planting season brings renewed energy and optimism, not just for home gardeners but also for Iowa State University Horticulture Extension and Outreach specialists and faculty. Many of these professionals spend their careers researching plants, soils, and growing systems, yet they still look forward to getting their hands in the soil at home. From tried-and-true favorites to new varieties they’re eager to test, learn about what Extension experts are excited to plant in spring 2026. Maybe one of their plants will make it on your "must plant" list this spring!
Dan Fillius
Statewide Field Specialist - Commercial Vegetable and Specialty Crops
I'm excited to plant a new tree in my yard, an American Hornbeam, 'Fire King.' I'm looking forward to its great fall color as well as its catkins and nutlets for spring interest.
Randall Vos
Statewide Field Specialist - Commercial Fruit Crops
I'll put in a vote for Juicy Jewel Asian pear. It's supposed to be pretty disease-resistant and hardy to all of Iowa.
Patrick O'Malley
Eastern Iowa Field Specialist - Commercial Fruit and Vegetable Crops
Prime Ark Freedom blackberry. Thornless and produces on primocanes. It may be marginally hardy zones 5?-9.
Chelsea Harbach
Plant Disease Diagnostician Plant & Insect Diagnostic Clinic
I don’t have a garden, but I am bound and determined to get my hands on some honey berries this year! Probably from a you-pick place somewhere.
Alicia Herzog
State-wide Master Gardener Coordinator
I want to plant a Silvery Fir Tree Tomato. Since my first harvest of Silvery Fir Tree tomato fruits, it has had my heart. This variety grows easily in containers and small spaces, yields delicious, rich slicing tomatoes, and produces heavily. What’s not to love?
Jeff Iles
Professor of Horticulture
I am looking forward to planting a Slender Silhouette Sweetgum. This very narrow selection of sweetgum can get 50+ feet tall but only 8 feet wide. It will fit perfectly into the landscape surrounding Horticulture Hall on Iowa State University's campus.
Cindy Haynes
Professor of Horticulture
Every year i look forward to planting my Mother's Day tree. I've had corneliancherry dogwood, redbud, and katsuratree in the past, but this year I am looking forward to planting a serviceberry. There is a cultivar called Standing Ovation that is narrow but still has the beautiful white flowers, colorful fruit, and lovely fall color.
Aaron Steil
Consumer Horticulture Specialist
There are many plants I am looking forward to planting this spring, but one that I am particularly excited for is a hardy hibiscus called Summerific Edge of Night. Bright pink dinner plate-sized flowers on a compact plant with almost black leaves and stems. I think that will look great in my garden!
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