The achievements of Fred Yates long plant breeding history were recognised by the RHS with presentation of the Reginald Cory Cup.
This prestigious award is given to encourage and reward the production of new garden hybrids. Since 2005 it has been presented to a plant breeder whose work in the hybridisation of a particular species has resulted in the introduction and general availability of exciting new varieties.
Fred’s long history with Genesis Plant Marketing Ltd started back in the 1990s with the founder of the company Peter Dealtrey and his wife Dee. In these early beginnings work focused on Antirrhinums and Begonia.
Throughout the years there were many successes including Antirrhinum Antirinca, Veronica Inspire, Begonia Million Kisses and the award winning Penstemon Pentastic series. More recent successes include the hugely popular Nemesia Sundae and Nuvo series, Aubretia Just Spring and Geum Fiery Red.
The working relationship with Genesis continues to this day and although stepping back from the daily work now Fred continues to support and guide extensive programs in Erysimum and other species for release in the near future, in conjunction with Greg Freer at stocks Lane Nursery.
Nigel Judd the current Managing Director of Genesis said. ‘The company are very proud to have been able to represent Fred’s breeding around the world for nearly 25 years and look forward to our involvement in the new releases coming through in the next two years’.
Picture caption: Fred Yates and the award winning Penstemon Pentastic series.