Jun 26, 2018
Hydroponic HappeningsBy Abby (Kleckler) McGarry

This week I’m in the Seattle, Washington, area on the Garden Centers of America (GCA) Summer Tour. This is my first time in Seattle and day one did not disappoint.

I’ll be sharing a lot of business and merchandising ideas in upcoming issues of the magazine and on social media, but I want to ask you about one thing that caught my eye on the first day of touring. Windmill Gardens in Sumner, Washington, started growing hydroponic lettuce approximately 18 months ago.

The operation is certified organic, and they sell 80 percent of their lettuce to retail and 20 percent to restaurants. The goal, according to head grower Ben, however, is to target more restaurants and food services where profits are greater.

My question to you is: have you ever thought of tackling the hydroponic growing market? Why or why not? Let me know at [email protected].

Last Chance … But Really

On day one of my travels I also saw some neat displays, which reminded me to remind you of Lawn & Garden Retailer’s 2018 Merchandiser of the Year competition.

That’s right … we extended the deadline until June 28 (2 days away!) just in case you haven’t submitted your eye-catching display yet. I promise this is my last reminder!

Visit www.lgrmag.com/merchandiser-of-year for complete details and to enter. Also, let me know if you have any questions at all. Seeing all your great merchandising ideas is one of my favorite times of the year.

Cheers,

Abby


Abby (Kleckler) McGarry

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