Consumer Information

January 2012

The Backyard & Beyond

No longer a backyard project, the National Wildlife Federation's Certified Wildlife Habitat program positions independent garden centers as the ultimate "one-stop shop" for consumers. What can be better than neighborhood residents and local businesses recognizing... more »

January 11, 2012

BHG’s Hottest Garden Trends for 2012

The editors of Better Homes & Gardens share what they believe will be the biggest garden trends for this new yearLooking to stay up on hot trends in gardening? The editors of Better Homes &... more »

January 2012

‘Dance with the one who brung ya!’

The consumer is willing to pay more for something, but it's your job to justify and rationalize the differentiation to them so they readily comprehend your comparative value equation.That's a pretty nebulous lead-in to this... more »

August 2011

Creating & Feeding The Passion

Looking back on your first gardening successes can go a long way when it comes to helping your customers with theirs.During my 40 years in the gardening industry, some of my most enjoyable memories come... more »

August 2011

The Future of Gardening

Connecting is key when it comes to reaching a new generation of gardeners.The garden is an excellent teaching tool. From a single flower many subjects can be taught including geography, science, art and literature. I... more »

July 2011

Consumer Insight

Think outside of the pot. Through market research, learn new ways to innovate and create additional value for consumers.I'm often asked to explain what I do for a living. In short, I specialize in asking... more »

July 2011

The Tattoo Shop Lesson

If a tattoo shop owner knows the importance of virtual customer feedback, is there any reason you don't?The tattoo shop on the corner of my street knows the virality of word of mouth. The tattoo... more »

June 2011

Take It Outside

New trends in landscape lighting show that when it comes to extending warm summer nights, the answer is in the lights.Improved TechnologyThe biggest trend right now in landscape lighting is LEDs, says Tommy Herren, better... more »

June 2011

Start Your Wine-ing

From a dizzying array of product selection to upscale clientele, wine shops and garden centers have a lot in common — and even more to learn from each other.Independent, locally-owned business. Big-chain competition. Multiple pricepoints.... more »

June 2011

Gateway Gardening

Whether it's an easier way to break into the world of gardening or simply a step toward healthier living, small-space gardening is getting noticed by new, urban and veteran gardeners alike.You sell healthy living. That's... more »

June 2011

This Issue is Fresh

While welcoming all of these new soon-to-be gardeners in to shop, there is one thing many of them have in common — a lack of confidence. How are you introducing new visitors to gardening?I feel... more »

Ensuring a Better Return

Ensuring a Better Return

From landscape design assistance to the utilization of a new customer survey program, Rice's Nursery is taking necessary steps to keep its customers coming back.No one can say Rice's Nursery doesn't take risks — and... more »