Cha-ching! (2-14)

For Valentine's Day, we offer an idea we think you'll love, courtesy of Habersham Gardens in Atlanta.

The garden center instituted a merchandising strategy a couple of years ago that is applicable virtually everywhere -- and it has proven to be a stroke of genius, customer-service-wise.

Habersham Gardens groups plants in solution-based departments. The staff came up with 11 categories, including “Privacy Plants,” “Instant Gratification (annuals)” and “Shady Ladies.” Each category addresses the needs of Habersham’s urban clientele.

Despite an early learning curve, customers adapted to the new system -- and now they swear by it. Co-owner Deborah Harrison said some people saw the new organization scheme as the dumbing-down of gardening. “But indeed our customers are loving it,” she said. “They’re finding information and the things they need without reading hundreds of signs.”

And in the process they recognize Habersham Gardens as a solution-based garden center. Cha-ching!

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