This 'n' Data

Say, what?!!! “The concept of an ‘average American’ is gone, probably forever. The average American has been replaced by a complex, multidimensional society that defies simplistic labeling.” – demographics expert Peter Francese, from “2010 America,” a recent Ad Age white paper

Instant gardenfication
Proven Winners has rolled out the ultimate time-saving gardening solution. The 30-Second Planter is a unique patented product that allows consumers to easily remove the bottom of a biodegradable fiber container and then place it directly into a decorative container filled with soil – no digging necessary. The fiber container contains Proven Winners plants in various combinations and, once the bottom is removed, it is then placed – or easily dropped – on top of the solid surface of the consumer’s final container. The plant’s roots then grow directly into the soil of the finished container - creating a quick, beautiful container garden. www.provenwinners.com

Trend watch…
T.F. Highland, president of The Organic Mechanics Soil Co., offers these predictions for 2010:

Trend No. 1: Organic products—including grow-your-own—continue to be hot. From seeds to vegetable starts, from potting soils and fertilizers to insect and disease controls, retailers will continue to see consumer interest and purchases of these products. Don’t let the mass-market grocery stores take this trend away from the local garden center. Keep veggies and herbs in stock and organized.

Trend No. 2: The economy will continue to shape consumer purchasing decisions. Outdoor living (patios, furniture, hardscapes, garden ornaments) will continue to be sluggish in 2010—unless garden centers pitch the perfect idea: Improve your property value by improving your landscape.

Trend No. 3: Independent garden centers become THE place to get garden supplies. This better be a trend in 2010, because I am tired of the millennials, Gen X and Gen Y saying, “Yeah, I know where my local garden center is...it’s the Home Depot right down the street.” WHAT? Get your name out there! Tell your personal story about starting (or being born into) your garden center. People love stories about people! Create an environment of friends helping friends shop. There is nothing friendly about big box stores. Use staff expertise to keep people coming back for more.