Spring Has Sprung

It’s April. Spring is finally here.

As I write this, it is 55 degrees in Chicago, the first springlike weather we’ve had all year, and it’s barely the middle of March. I’m still recovering from the shift to daylight-saving time. But by the time this issue reaches your hands, the spring equinox — when the center of the sun is positioned directly above the equator, and day and night will be exactly the same length — will have passed by almost a month, and I’ll be well into my first glorious spring in Chicago.

The Jetsetting Season

Before you’ve even glanced at April’s table of contents, our staff will have returned from a week in California, gathering information and photographing all the newest varieties at the 2008 Pack Trials. Tim and I also will be preparing for a trip in early May to Las Vegas for the National Hardware Show and Lawn & Garden World. You’ve probably noticed the logos on our front cover — Lawn & Garden Retailer will be Lawn & Garden World’s official sponsor publication again this year.

Considering I’m already looking forward to it, I’m sure by then I’ll also be making my travel plans to head out east for a few days in Raleigh, N.C., with the Garden Centers of America’s 2008 Summer Tour. OFA’s Short Course in Columbus, Ohio, will be fast approaching as well. Spring will fly by and rocket us into summer before we know it!

New Beginnings

But back to the season at hand. Spring is traditionally considered a time of new beginnings. And in that spirit, we’re kicking off our second annual Merchandiser of the Year competition this month. From now until July 1, you can submit photos and a description of your best merchandising ideas from 2007 by mail or through our website, www.lgrmag.com. See page 36 for more information on how to enter.

This year’s winner, Smith’s Acres of Niantic, Conn., was unveiled in February. They stood out among the other two finalists in part because of the staff’s team spirit in creating displays — everyone gets to add their input — and a general passion for presenting their merchandise in creative, festive ways to their customers. How will you set yourself apart from the other entries?

I know this is an incredibly busy time, but if you’re out and about this spring, from Pack Trials to the Hardware Show, keep an eye out for the staff of Lawn & Garden Retailer and GPN. Even if you only have time to drop me an e-mail about how your selling season is going, I’d love to hear from you. Spring has sprung!