Yard, Garden and Patio Show exposes strong home gardening trend in 2010

This year, homeowners believe more fervently than ever that life is better in the garden – that is, if attendance at the 2010 Yard, Garden and Patio Show is any indication.

Nearly 25,000 people crowded the Oregon Convention Center for the popular garden festival Feb. 12 – 14.

Often, attendees were packed in shoulder-to-shoulder on the show floor. In a tough economy where attendance at consumer events continues to stagnate, Oregonians still show a strong interest in gardening activities. “We were particularly pleased to see so many young families at the event,” said John Aguirre, executive director of the Oregon Association of Nurseries (OAN).

The consumer gardening show, produced by the OAN and presented by Dennis’ 7 Dees Landscaping and Garden Centers, is often considered the herald of the spring gardening season. The event featured display gardens, hundreds of exhibitors, and more than 40 hours of seminars, including a packed presentation by international plant explorer Dan Hinkley.

“This was truly a celebration of outdoor living,” event chairman Brian Baumann of Baumann Farms said. “I think more than ever we saw people lingering for extended times in the display gardens, walking the show floor with families and friends, and really being more participants than observers.”

Organizers noted an overall trend toward cost-effective, intimate outdoor living spaces to share with family and friends. “People want to create a sense of hospitality and community in their gardens,” OAN Director of Marketing Ann Murphy said. “Many Oregonians are in emotional and psychological survival mode right now. They want to escape from everyday stress. People view the garden as that oasis where they find both comfort and entertainment.”

Homeowners were eager to spend discretionary income on their gardens, where it makes a lasting impact on the value of their home.

A survey of attendees revealed that more than three quarters of show visitors made a purchase during the show. Nearly 40 percent of those purchases were made for plants, and 25 percent were on garden products.

The next Yard, Garden and Patio Show is slated for February 18-20, 2011 at the Oregon Convention Center.

For 2010 event details, including booth and display garden winners, browse www.YGPShow.com or contact the Oregon Association of Nurseries at 503-682-5089.

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