Since 1982, University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardeners have volunteered each year to trial selected annual vegetable seeds. The research has provided information for home gardeners in Minnesota by volunteers comparing varieties and sharing their experiences.
In 2016 the Master Gardeners took on an important new issue. The trials looked at the attractiveness of annual flowers to various pollinators. The results will be compiled state-wide to help home gardeners choose plants tat will improve habitat for pollinators.
In Dakota County there are two vegetable trial gardens located at the First Presbyterian Church in South St. Paul and at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rosemount.
Click on this link to download the 2014 Vegetable Trials Cookbook.