Marketing
Social Networking: Does it Work?
Texas-based Calloway's Nursery never wanted a New York PR agency approach to reaching their customers. So theirs stays true to its roots: It ties in with every aspect of their marketing plan and is tailored... more »Fresh Growth for 2010
As you continue preparations for the quickly approaching spring season, the consumer panel is doing a little growing of its own: We're welcoming a few more gardeners this year. Here are a few quick introductions!Amelia,... more »Hello My Name is Your New Best Friend
Ah, the power of the press! But in an age where consumer print publications are cutting back on the pages they give to gardening, it may be time to foster relationships elsewhere. Start with local... more »Twitter and Facebook and iPhones…Oh, My!
After nearly 80 years in business, Pemberton Farms & Garden Center has really taken a leap in to the 21st century and added a heavy social media element to its marketing and promotion efforts. Adding... more »Suggestion Box
Although we have a few months before spring hits, it's never too early to start preparing for your busiest season. This month, we asked our panelists to offer tips that would improve their garden center... more »Gifts That Keep on Giving
The busy holiday season is a perfect time to let your best customers know how much you appreciate them.The holiday season is here, and you've got plenty to worry about already. In addition to the... more »Weave a Profitable Web
"If you build it, they will come"? The process of building an e-commerce site is only the beginning for a garden center retailer.Setting up an e-commerce site might seem daunting at first, but there are... more »Garden Center Gifting
Jeanette, 53 Berwyn, Ill. My favorite garden center is a seasonal center that closes shortly after Halloween. I try to check out the end-of-season items for gift ideas, but the pickings can be very slim.... more »Blooms on a Budget
Maria, 52 Chicago This year, I have focused more on my vegetable garden. I have decided that planting food is more beneficial at this particular time. I used to grow more trees, plants and flowers,... more »Suggestion Box
Independent garden centers have a huge leg up on the big boxes for customer service and plant quality. But take a cue from our consumer panelists: There's always more you could be doing. Listen up!... more »Unique Additions
Jen, 30 Glenwood, Iowa We continue to work on establishing areas of our yard for flower gardens and plant edging. I'd really like to accessorize the area in our front yard with some stepping stones,... more »Reach Out and Touch Someone
Ed Bemis' garden center was full of poinsettias with no place to go. After an ice storm in December, he had leftovers to give away but no customers to take them. So he sent out... more »
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News
August 3, 2026
AFE welcomes new leadership and board appointments
July 29, 2026
The Plant Co. expands leafjoy distribution through EHR
July 28, 2026
NGB releases harvest guide for home gardeners
July 28, 2026
