Allan Armitage’s Recent Observations on Consumer Interest in Plants

Many more young people are migrating to the houseplant section in the nursery to buy named varieties like ‘McColley’s Finale’ philodendron. Photo: Allan Armitage

Maybe it is just me. I am fortunate to participate in events like Cultivate and California Spring Trials; the best reason by far to spend money and time is to get re-energized. But then I go home to my little neighborhood and am assailed by mowers, blowers, and goers. It seems that everyone wants their place to look nice but has no interest in the plants that are used. They want their lawn to look good but don’t want to mow it, they want their landscape to look nice but don’t want to prune it. And they want a tree or two but don’t want to rake the leaves.

My wife Susan tells me to take off my ugly glasses and realize that at least they want their place to look good. She points out that there are no trucks parked on the lawn and the grass is actually cut. Of course, she is right. So, I will put up with the damn blowers knowing that things could be far worse.

There Are More of Us Than You Think

Believe it or not, I am still asked to give a talk or two about plants and gardens. Contradicting my comments above, people actually turn up — and even take notes.

They ask questions, they ooh and aah at the plants I show, and we complain together about our battles with deer and squirrels. I have been doing this for many years, and I am always re-energized when I speak to those in the trenches. Ignore my complaints, the gardener is alive and well.

On Changing Demographics

I don’t think it is any surprise that boomers are buying fewer plants each year. I am not exactly sure what generation we are in today, I think maybe Gen Z.

The other day, I was at my favorite plant center, Growers Outlet in Loganville, GA, where one of the great staff members there pointed out the large number of young people in the houseplant/tropical area. They were discussing plants with their friends, or their mothers, and were very much engaged. My colleague was fully aware that these young people not only wanted green in their condos, apartments, and homes, but they also wanted a connection to them. She pointed out that they did not just want a houseplant, but also wanted a named variety. It was so nice to see a gaggle of Zs discussing ‘McColley’s Finale’ and ‘Golden Crocodile’ philodendron and walking to the register with cash in hand and smiles on their faces.

On Getting Away

Lastly, it is once again time for your father to provide a life lesson. As hard as you work, make sure to get out of the greenhouse and take a holiday. No plants, no business — go fishing, go hiking, go away! Yes, I know, you have no time or no money, but a few days away will not cost you your life savings, nor will the business collapse.

Do not worry. When you return, the greenhouse will still be there and, in fact, may be in better shape than when you left. Your health, your family, and your business will be better off if you take a break. Father has spoken!