Consumers consider environmental impact of garden products

A majority of American households are concerned about the environmental impact of gardening products, according to the 2008 Late Spring Gardening Trends Research Report released by Garden Writers Assoc. Foundation.

The survey found that 68% of households were either very concerned (34%) or somewhat concerned (34%) about the environmental impact of gardening products they buy. Respondents also said they’re recycling more: 48% always recycle plastic nursery pots/trays, 48% always mulch or compost grass clippings and 41% always mulch or compost waste.

Additional findings:

• Weed and insect control continue to be the top two activities Americans are planning for their lawns this year (48% and 32%, respectively).
• One out of three (33%) said their primary reason for gardening is better mental health, nutrition or fitness.
• The number of gardeners planning to add more perennials to their properties this year continues to grow, increasing from 31% in 2005 to 41% this year.
• Blogs have a strong following among gardeners, with 23% reporting they read blogs of all types. Among those who read blogs, 27% said they read garden-related blogs either frequently (5%) or occasionally (22%).
• Fertilizing is the number one activity for this spring and summer, cited by 31% of respondents. Working in manure and compost comes in a close second with 28%, followed by the addition of store-bought soil mix (25%) and peat moss (14%).

-- Sarah