Trendspotting: Water Watchers & Seedlings: Part III

Here at the Garden Media Group spotting green living trends that include hot new plants and products for your lawn and garden and green lifestyle is our passion.

In the last of our 3-part series of GMG's Garden Trends for 2012 Report: Cultivate the New Good Life with the Power of Plants, we've identified Water-Watchers and Seedlings as important trends that are coming on strong.

Water-Watchers. According to Dr. Charlie Hall, professor of horticulture at Texas A&M University, "There is no single issue greater than water."

Drought and regional water restrictions are causing us to grow plants, flowers and vegetables that require less water.

Beneficial soil amendments like the new Soil Reef Biochar are considered by many scientists to be like a "coral reef" for soil. Its high carbon content and porous nature help retain water and nutrients, saving gardeners time and money.

New Bloomtastic! plants from Hines Growers use EcoCover mulch discs to help save water and reduce weeds. Look for their new bougainvillea and Bougainvillea Patio Trees that are drought tolerant and give vibrant multi-colored flowers for your patio, deck and porch all summer long.

Seedlings. From the White House to the neighborhood schools, kids are learning how to grow their own food and take care of the planet. Suzi McCoy, our chief trendspotter and garden expert says the popularity of miniature gardens is "ideal for kids and the young at heart to share the whimsical world of plants and appreciate the joy of gardening."

Share what you see trending on the horizon. We'd love to hear from you!

~Lynne, Garden Media Group

Photos: Soil Reef Biochar and Bougainvillea, GMG