Temkin International, the packaging manufacturer in Payson, UT, has launched two new products — laminated sheets for potted plants that lock in and protect the colors on potted plant sheets and heavy-duty sleeves for orchids and other upscale plants that need extra protection.

The world’s first flower food is rebranding itself with a product line designed to appeal to a worldwide market and a new generation of smartphone users. The new effort will embody the slogan, “think globally and act locally,” according to Jim Daly, vice president for Floralife global operations and head of corporate research for Smithers-Oasis Inc., which owns Floralife.

In Pierson, FL, it was leatherleaf fern; in Charleston, SC, peonies. In Carpinteria, CA, it was a whole lineup of lilies, tulips, gerbera and other flowers. In Southern California, in Fallbrook, it was waxflower.

Under the banner, “Seed to Shelf,” the International Floriculture Expo will offer a dozen education sessions on an array of topics, a treasure trove of some 200 exhibits, new products and iron designer competitions, a flower-naming ceremony and, a first, a Family Day when spouses and children are welcomed to the exhibit hall.

MONTE VISTA, CO — Rain in May delayed potato planting by a few days, but no one was complaining.

According to Jim Ehrlich, Colorado Potato Administrative executive director, some growers were slowed in their efforts to get spuds in the ground during the first and second weeks of May, but Mr. Ehrlich said the consensus was that the weather event was “really nice moisture.”

The cold chain and sustainability are bywords of the floral industry. Researchers have explored ways to improve the cold chain without much progress. And sustainability has led to a confusing array of labels.

Imagine if the storage life of flowers could be extended to 60 days, 10 times the usual length. The supply of flower products for holidays like Mother’s Day could be evened out over a two-month period. The labor force, now seasonal and less-well-trained for holiday production, could be stabilized.