A new year has begun. It’s time to take a look at our horticulture trend predictions based on what we saw develop in the industry over 2017. These are our top 3 suggestions for trends to keep your eyes on. This spring, they will play major roles in sales and in creating customer/brand relationships.

3. The Bigger Picture Is Also Impacting The Smaller Picture
bee- pollinator plants

Bees

When bees were added to the endangered species list, pollinator plants skyrocketed as a horticulture trend. Shoppers are much more in tune with environmental concerns and are also eager to make a positive impact. When designing labels, make sure to specify which plants you sell are ideal for pollinators. It’s also crucial to communicate care information on your blog or social media pages.

Chemical-Based Products

With environmental concerns rising, consumers are reaching for natural products.  They’re searching for alternatives to chemical-based products and DIY recipes. This way, they know they can have beautiful flowers that keep the planet healthy. Offer your own solutions and provide simple DIY tutorials and recipes on your website.

Weather & Natural Disasters’ Influence

Weather patterns are impacting landscape decisions. Drought tolerant plants were a conversation piece at the beginning of the year. As time goes on, we predict the same thing will occur for plants that help with flooding. With fires, homeowners will look to rocky zen gardens to ease their worry of a spreading threat.

2. Growth of E-Commerce Means Going Above & Beyond In-Store
garden center - vs e-commerce horticulture trend predictions 2018

Lean Six Sigma

Lean flow is a topic we explored in depth last week. Be sure to read that post before re-arranging your production line… Okay, now that you’ve taken a moment to read about how lean six sigma saves time, money, and labor for growers, it’s also time to look at your store. How can the flow, the displays, and the product presentation impact how customers see your store? With so much online competition, it’s time to make your customers’ shopping experience so enjoyable that they prefer to come in and shop.

Labeling Automation Systems

Automation plays a huge roll in this movement. Growers, whether you’re a green house, nursery, or a garden center, all need to focus on growing the best plants possible. Invest in automation to direct your employee’s attention back to what matters. Start with labeling since our systems label hundreds of containers in under a minute, saving you massive amounts of time, money, and even labor. 

Consider Your Customers’ Needs

A customer oriented, and empathetic, perspective is non-negotiable. What information, products, and customer service do your customers need? Go above and beyond that standard to remain competitive to e-commerce shopping. That personal touch and small business relationship is important. You also need social media presences, effective label design, and enjoyable shopping experiences.

1. Zen Gardening & Mental Wellness To Grow as a Horticulture Trend
zen garden

Pantone’s Color of The Year: Greenery

It all started when Pantone named Greenery as their color of the year for 2017. They anticipated a year where people would need a quiet space to escape to. Plants also offer that private serenity. By the end of the year, there was a clear shift in perspective toward the value gardens offer in taking a moment to breathe.

Gardens

Outside, we’re seeing an emphasis on privacy, taking delight in the imperfection, and also meditation gardens. Japanese maples, decorative rock gardens and minimalist statues will all grow in popularity. This horticulture trend is lead by millennials who value experiences over owning products.

Terrariums & Indoor Decor

Inside, it’s another story. Many young people living in apartments and turning to shade loving plants or easy-care succulents. Customers are looking to create spaces that enhance the air quality, provide fresh herbs for mindful cooking, and overgrown rooms.

Learn about the labeling and automation solutions that Label Gator offers. See how you can save time, money and labor with our Product Guide. Click here to download the guide.

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