Trend-Watching at Farwest 2022: Houseplants, Logistics, and More
September 22, 2022 The Oregon Association of Nurseries (OAN) Farwest Show is one I look forward to every August. The showcase of the best of new varieties entering the market, and exchanges of new ideas amongst familiar, friendly faces not seen since the COVID-19 pandemic began, were a treat.
View all
Walking the aisles, chatting up industry friends and retailers visiting from all environs of the garden retail and landscape world, I noticed several trends that were repeatedly mentioned.
The overall feeling is the sky and profit margins are looking up. Demands for bread-and-butter Oregon shrubs, deciduous trees, and conifers shipping nationwide appear stronger for 2023 master orders. Retail buyers were searching for oddities to attract a younger demographic shopping online, and for farmers’ markets or brick-and-mortar garden centers.
Rosie Sullivan from N&M Herb Nursery commented that houseplants are still in demand, especially at local farmer markets.
“Younger customers treat houseplants more like annuals. They have no problem replacing or trying new ones,” she said. “As opposed to gardeners who expect perennials and shrubs to last in their landscapes.”
Noname Nursery owner Robb Sloan connected with both growers and retailers.
“Japanese maple liners are strong contenders for next spring,” Sloan said.
Retailers were curious about the 25 varieties of Gingkos and Vernonia l. ‘Iron Butterfly’ and Vernonia x ‘Southern Cross’.
“Interest in native, deer-resistant, and drought-tolerant varieties specifically designed to withstand changing climates in the Pacific Northwest, California, Idaho, and Washington are among the ones we are concentrating on growing for 2023 and beyond,” Sloan said.
Logistics are always top of mind for East Coast customers. Buyers and brokers are combining loads from different nurseries to ensure truckloads, reefers, and train cars reduce shipping costs. Growers offering options for combining loads with other local growers nearby increase their sales. It’s not about the plants, it’s all about the trucks when it comes to cross country sales. Making sure trucks are full and don’t deadhead are critical with rising fuel and labor costs.
The Farwest Show celebrates its 50th anniversary August 23-25, 2023. Allan Niemi, Director of Events, will be reaching out to former and new OAN members to create a spectacular event. Place these dates in your tradeshow and travel calendar now.
Subscribe to eNewsletter
