Articles

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Island in the Sun

The British poet John Donne wrote in the 17th century that no man is an island, meaning people aren't isolated but instead linked to one another in some way. Hundreds of years later, his words... more »

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Laying Roots

In many communities, garden centers play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for local residents. They bring nature, beauty and a sense of tranquility. As such, garden centers often dig deep roots... more »

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Things Are Looking Up

Success in retail is predicated on the ability to compel the prospective customer to stop, look and buy. Throughout retail's grand evolution, merchants have creatively enticed customers into their stores and through their selling environments.... more »

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Making Your Wishes Come True

Yes, it's true; the Christmas season is behind us (and I hope it was a great season for everyone), but the time for making wishes come true and fulfilling dreams is right in front of... more »

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Freshen Up a Tired Lawn

Years ago, if you wanted a backyard pond, it meant taking a trip to the hardware store for a plastic, preformed pond that didn't allow for much landscaping creativity. Or worse yet, it meant digging... more »

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A Mixed Bouquet

In recent years, garden centers have become increasingly diverse, offering more than plants and plant care supplies. Product lines include gifts, food, furniture, perhaps even pet-care accessories. Oddly enough, though, cut flowers don't often seem... more »

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Open to Change

Last year, Lawn & Garden Retailer wanted to create a competition that would recognize the top merchandiser in our industry, a garden center that exemplifies the creativity and passion that's keeping business alive in the... more »

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Settling Into the Lifestyle Trend

Q I've been hearing a lot about how I need to incorporate more "lifestyle" elements into my garden center, but it takes money and time to change up displays and get in more inventory. If... more »

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Never Stop Learning

As my younger sister returned to Des Moines a few weeks ago to begin her second semester of college, I got to thinking about the importance of learning. When we were children, learning was all... more »

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Kitsch: Classic and Cool in Your Garden

When used in moderation, kitsch items can add new life to your garden. When I first think of "kitsch," the image of my former art teacher always pops up: He stood next to a painting,... more »

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Rest and Renewal

Gay, 61 Topeka, Kan."During the holidays, I shop my local garden center for the beautiful 'live'-looking decorations they carry. Beautiful boughs and garlands that look so fresh you can almost smell them. Each season, there... more »

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Time to Go to the Mart

The New Year marks the time to visit AmericasMart in Atlanta to explore the latest product offerings that you just might want to offer in your garden center. The Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings... more »