Apr 21, 2017

Gardening Continues to Grow By Tim Hodson

According to the 2017 National Gardening Survey, the now $36.9 billion dollar DIY yard and garden industry is growing at a slow and steady rate. Millennials and the continued popularity of food gardening are helping to drive this growth.

The 2017 National Gardening Survey is the comprehensive market research report that many in the lawn and garden industry use each year to track the market. Conducted annually since 1973, the survey provides in-depth and up-to-date marketing information on industry trends, household participation, consumer profiles and retail sales.

The study is published by The National Gardening Market Research Co.

Nearly three-quarters of all U.S. households participated in lawn and garden activities in 2016, up from 70 percent of households in both 2013 and 2014. The average amount spent per household was $407.

“While headlines may not be as dramatic as in 2015, when spending finally leapt out of the recession, the 2016 National Gardening Survey shows steady consumer consolidation,” says industry analyst Ian Baldwin, who contributed to the report.

The survey shows that flower gardening made a moderate comeback, while water gardening grew to an all-time high participation rate of 19 percent.

“Though overall gains were small, the 2016 data indicates that consumers are feeling more confident in their discretionary spending of both time and dollars with regard to gardening,” Baldwin says.

The survey also shows the “Do It for Me” category continues to see increases as more affluent consumers prefer to pay others to do their gardening for them. The number of households purchasing landscape design, installation and maintenance services has doubled in the past six years — most likely a reflection of the stronger economy.

Harris Interactive conducted the survey of indoor and outdoor lawn and garden activities, reaching out to more than 2,000 households.

The 2017 National Gardening Survey is available for purchase at GardenResearch.com.

— Tim