Top 9 Garden Center posts of December 2017

In December, Garden Center magazine readers responded favorably to industry news relating to popular new color trends, insights into the ongoing concern of workplace harassment, retailers coping with wildfire threats in California and several other topics.

Late in 2017, news cycles were often dominated by accusations of sexual harassment against several celebrities in the entertainment industry. Kellee Magee O'Reilly, a renowned horticulture professional, offered her perspective on the situation in an open letter to the green industry titled "We are not immune."

Also popular with readers in December were reports from garden centers in Central California struggling with the damage and disruption caused by the Thomas Fire - an ongoing wildfire originating in the Ojai area.

Listed below are the nine most-read news posts and magazine articles on gardencentermag.com from December 2017, as ranked by total page views:

1. Ultra Violet named 2018 Pantone Color of the Year - Pantone says the "contemplative" shade of purple communicates originality and ingenuity.

2. 'We are not immune' - Kellee Magee O'Reilly addresses sexual harassment in the green industry in an open letter.

3. Top 9 Garden Center posts of November 2017 - Popular content included State of the Industry insights, trade show coverage, national wildfire news and more.

4. Thomas Fire threatens homes, businesses in several California communities - The wildfire, which originated near Ojai, has destroyed hundreds of buildings and caused more than $48 million in damages.

5. CBS: Christmas tree shortage's roots go back to 2008 financial crisis - The National Christmas Tree Association says prices are on the rise 5 to 10 percent in many states.

6. Spring Meadow Nursery releases new logo - The Michigan grower is also removing 'Nursery Inc.' from its branding.

7. New, returning vendors announced for AmericasMart's January 2018 Market - Dozens of companies are new to the show floor or will be in expanded or relocated booths.

8. Mitchell's Nursery and Greenhouse releases poinsettia open house results - Red Glitter, Winter Rose Red and Ice Punch were the top three finishers.

9. National Garden Bureau releases promotional materials for 'Year of the' crops - Beets, calibrachoas, tulips and coreopsis will be highlighted throughout next year.

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