Mar 25, 2015
Do Green. Do Good.By Abby (Kleckler) McGarry

“Do Green. Do Good.” was the tagline for the Chicago Flower & Garden Show that ended Sunday, after nine days of record-setting numbers of attendees.

I escaped from the office one day last week, headed down to Chicago’s Navy Pier and listened to consumer after consumer talk about what they loved at the show and what they planned to take back to their gardens, decks, balconies, etc.

No worries: I took some photos from the show that you can check out on Lawn & Garden Retailer’s Facebook page.

I couldn’t help but notice all the simple ways to engage kids: a bug hotel, digging to make room for pansies or planting a vegetable seedling. This next-generation of gardeners seemed even more excited than the parents at times!

Do you participate in or attend your local garden show or spring events? If so, send me a message at [email protected] with some of the things you overheard that you just can’t wait to incorporate in your garden center.

In Case You Missed It

Miniature gardens were some of the most photographed displays at the Chicago Flower & Garden Show. There were lots of “Ah,” “Look at that,” and “That’s a great idea” comments.

As you know, it’s a hot category! Tricia Hunt, co-owner of Millstone Market & Nursery, offered a look into how her store does miniature gardening in a webinar earlier this week.

Who knew you could have enormous success with miniature gardening birthday parties? If you didn’t get a chance to watch the webinar live, you can check out the complete presentation here.

Cheers,

Abby


Abby (Kleckler) McGarry

Abby (Kleckler) McGarry is the managing editor of Lawn & Garden Retailer. Contact her at [email protected].