Thinking green thoughts

It’s that time of year in Cleveland when a 40-degree day brings everyone outside, even if the snow mounds still cover the ground and there’s no green to be seen. We’re all itching to start up our usual warm weather activities, whether it be biking, running, sitting out on the porch, walking the dog without a coat or digging around in the yard (one of my favorite pastimes). For gardeners like me, there are two things getting me through my outdoor plant withdrawal: my houseplants, and the prospect of starting seeds indoors to brighten up the space and serve as a reminder that spring in the Midwest will soon arrive.

We’ve talked to many of you who have hosted farmers markets and meals in the greenhouse to draw customers in until spring starts. Others are offering indoor classes and workshops and still others are already out of winter weather and enjoying planting-friendly temperatures. Whatever you’ve done to keep customers coming in and your own spirits high this winter, rest assured that a new season is almost upon us.

This month we’re offering up a few “green” topics to inspire and motivate you this spring. In this month’s cover story, Managing Editor Michelle Simakis shares what she saw out in Portland, Oregon, at several of the top-notch, eco-friendly garden centers there. We also take a look at how one independent retailer is making some green with composting classes, and Leslie Halleck weighs in on the another green trend — fermentation. Also check out Assistant Editor Cassie Neiden’s article about ferns.

Michelle and I will also be hitting the road in April for California Spring Trials. If you’re also heading west, don’t miss our Spring Trials Guide for stop information and tips from the breeders for making the most of the week. We’ll be sharing the latest news from our trip via our social media channels and newsletter. If you haven’t seen Garden Center’s Instagram page, I highly recommend you check it out at instagram.com/gardencentermag.

Happy Spring!

kvarga@gie.net