ORANGE COUNTY EARNINGS

Hines Horticulture Inc.: The Irvine operator of commercial nurseries reported a fourth quarter net loss of $2.5 million, or 11 cents a share, compared with a net loss of $3.1 million, or 59 cents a share, for the 1997 fourth quarter. Sales gained 22% to $34.5 million from $28.3 million. Net income for the year totaled $6.1 million, or 3 cents a share, which included a loss of $4.4 million on early extinguishment of debt. Net income for 1997 was $5.8 million, or 12 cents a share. Sales advanced 17% to $235 million from $201.3 million.