Merchandising

July 2011
Give Me A Break

The Breakroom is an important space, whose proper purpose must be defined and protected so as to serve the most critical and important functions all the time and that is to serve the people who... more »

July 2011
Underground Plants

Underground: Existing outside the scope of mainstream mass media and culture.Before plants make it big, they travel the country in small greenhouses and garden centers creating a loyal following. They are true performers, growing and... 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
Next Season’s Silver Lining

Dollars per square foot, turns, naked plants and how to squeeze the most out of a short season — a few thoughts on packaging and new media support.Okay, the weather was less than optimal. In... more »

Keys to Showing Off
Keys to Showing Off

To become an inspiration destination for your customers, introduce bold colors, technology and better planning to endcaps and dead ends.Lawn and garden retailers face many of the same challenges as other retailers. Learning from fashion,... more »

Garden Center Touring
Garden Center Touring

From curb appeal to succession plans, garden center tours can provide owners, managers and staff motivation to improve, beneficial industry connections and long-lasting memories.While working with such great people to get ready for the 2011... more »

May Madness: Our Final Four
May Madness: Our Final Four

While the judges are in deliberation to pick a winner, check out the finalists for our 2011 Merchandiser of the Year competition.Celebrate Your EntranceAl's Garden Center • Sherwood, OregonCreated at Al's Garden Center by Denee... more »

Succulents With Benefits
Succulents With Benefits

As today's consumers face tighter schedules and smaller plots of land, the succulent category is proving to be a gardener's best friend.Whether on a sunny dining room table, hanging on the front door, or potted... more »

April 2011
Making A Scene

With extra in-store promotions and recent breeding innovations, orchids are experiencing a revival that's worth your customers' attention.For brown thumbs and new homeowners, orchids can give off an intimidating vibe. To them, their delicate and... more »

March 2011
The International Stage

It's always a good idea to step out of your store's confines to see what other garden centers are doing. Here we get a glimpse at merchandising from some of Europe's best.Please select the PDF... more »

March 2011
Small Concept Goes Big

Thanks to staff creativity and customer interest, the fairy gardening department at Tonkadale Greenhouse provides gardeners a reason to shop no matter the season.About five years ago at Tonkadale Greenhouse in Minnetonka, Minn., I started... more »