Planting the Seed

Everyday I try to look for good news that reaffirms the fact that our economic system will return to a sense of normalcy at some point in the future. It helps to maintain an optimistic outlook. Back in the fall across other business entries, I referenced the fact that wood stove and chain saw sales were on the rise. More recently, the story was about snow blowers selling out and the potential upswing for lawn mower purchases this spring. What does all of this mean? A bonanza of opportunity for the big-box retailers who stock these products and target the new cost conscious do-it-yourselfers. This microtrend of consumers returning to do-it-yourself roots to save money continues unabatedly. According to USA Today, one of the latest product segments that is experiencing a sales explosion is plant seeds. Burpee Seed Company expects seed sales to jump over 25% this year.

More people are thinking about planting a garden this year to save on food costs. Yes, there are benefits to growing your own produce right in your backyard; but what is driving this trend is primarily economics, much as it was with the "Victory Garden" explosion in wartime years. "Grow it yourself" is the new mantra for seasoned gardeners and beginners alike.

Sales numbers are astounding as seed manufacturers are realizing double-digit growth for the first time in many decades. Retailers are shifting shelf space from flowers to vegetables. Could it be that consumers are looking beyond just the benefits of locally-grown fresh produce? It might be the increasing shift toward organic and/or the fact that local tomatoes cost well in excess of $3.00 a pound. Considering that you can purchase a tray of tomato plants for $1.79, there is an economic payoff. But for those who are just getting into gardening, there's more to consider than the cost of the plants themselves. It is all about time and money.

You have to factor in the cost of fertilizer (the cost of which is up in excess of 10% this year), mulch, plant stakes, twine, and add in a multitude of tools that are required. It isn't cheap, as there is an initial investment to start a garden. Granted, it's an investment that pays off over time. One hint, if you're starting a garden - buy good quality tools. They'll pay for themselves year after year. Be careful what you get yourself into. Plan a small garden at first. If it turns into a passion, you can enlarge it and then start to acquire more of the tools and accessories that gardeners have stocked in their garages.

There is something magical about harvesting beans that start out as a mere seed, or giant bell peppers that started from a tiny seedling. Your garden exploding day to day in summer is something that you have to experience to understand. It is a miracle of nature at its finest. It's a great stress reliever, and that may be the greatest benefit of all. In these times, we certainly need a respite from bad news.

It will be interesting to watch your local garden centers to see if this trend takes off in the next few months. They will be glad to sell you everything you need to make this happen. After all, Lowe's is all about "Let's Build Something Together"and Home Depot says "You Can Do It, We Can Help".

What's next in the do-it-yourself explosion? Will paint manufacturers like Benjamin Moore and Sherman Williams see an uptick in sales as more people paint the interior and exterior of their homes? How about Weber and their line of outdoor cooking accessories? It stands to reason that more people will be eating at home this summer and barbeque is a mainstay of many family get togethers. Who knows, even hammock sales may be up? Now that's a trend I can certainly wholeheartedly endorse. That's a staycation that I could get into.

If you start a garden, be patient and understand that not everything will turn out the way the seed catalog photos portray it. It can be hard work, insects and animals will wreak havoc and you can't control the weather. Some things will do well and others won't. The key is not to get disappointed. Start small and have a few successes. Build on it year after year. There is no greater sense of pride than picking produce, bringing it into the kitchen and then enjoying it over dinner with your family, preferably in an outside venue. It's what summer is all about.