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Source: GPN Weekly Tim Hodson, Editorial Director
This summer, home gardeners are concerned about the environment, but just how concerned remains to be a pretty big question mark. Their gardening plans have also shifted a bit in 2011 vs. 2010.
According to the Garden Writers Association's "2011 Early Summer Gardening Trends Research Report," 73 percent of gardeners said they are concerned about the environmental impact of the lawn and garden products they buy.
However, when it comes to recycling in their yard or garden, the level of participation varies. Fifty-six percent of the gardeners said they always recycle their plastic flower pots and trays, while 41 percent said they always recycle their mulch and lawn clippings.
The survey also confirmed what many in the industry already know - 2011 is a tough year for gardeners - subsequently growers and retailers.
Vegetable gardening continues to be a hot category as 45 percent of the GWA survey respondents said they would add edibles to their gardens this summer. However, that is down 5 percent from 2010. Thirty percent said they would be planting annuals this year - also down 5 percent.
The addition of perennials, the top category in 2010, will take the biggest hit this summer as it is expected to be down 9 percent to 38 percent. Herb gardening is expected to decrease 4 percent this year down to 19 percent.
The Garden Writers Association surveyed gardeners in the first week of June to measure consumer expectations and attitudes for lawn and garden activities and purchase for June through August. This survey is the second of four that the GWA plans to do this year on national consumer gardening trends. You can learn more at the association's website, www.gardenwriters.org.
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