With a hint of spring in the air, Bord Bia is today launching It’s Garden Time, a campaign aimed at providing consumers with tips and advice for injecting life into their garden this year and a reminder of the health benefits of the outdoor activity. Bord Bia also released the findings of recent research on consumer attitudes to gardening.
The research found that the Celtic Tiger days of instant gratification and pop up gardens are gone and consumers are now more willing to spend more time on their garden with 46% stating they will invest in garden improvements this year.
Other key findings are as follows:
- 45% of purchasers intend to grow their own fruit or vegetables
- The garden is viewed as an extension of the home: 74% use the garden for relaxing; 52% for entertaining; 44% play area for children; 36% for eating
- 7 in 10 purchasers would like more information on how to care for plants
Carol Marks, Development/Marketing Specialist, Bord Bia said “our research shows the recent shift in attitudes and values has resulted in more people having an appetite to get involved in their garden. In addition, the grow-your-own phenomenon is set to continue, with salad and herbs, followed by root vegetables, leafy greens and onions being the most popular plants for GIY enthusiasts. The It’s Garden Time campaign has been designed to provide helpful tips and advice on gardening, and to encourage consumers to make the most of their gardens regardless of size”.
Green Gym
An added bonus is that gardening is good for you, even moderate garden activity, which can involve walking, bending, stretching and reaching, can burn a minimum of 200 calories per hour. And with no gym fees to pay it's good for your wallet too. Research has shown interaction with plants and green spaces can provide a number of therapeutic benefits; easing tension, reducing heart rates and mitigating against the effects of mental fatigue.*
Get Gardening
Bord Bia’s Garden Time website – www.bordbia.ie/gardentime - includes many tips on how to get started in the garden including information on what to plant; when to plant; where to plant and how to plant. For guidance on using recognized horticulture professionals, the website also includes the winners of Bord Bia’s National Amenity Horticulture Awards 2010/2010 (garden centres, nurseries and landscape contractors).
Whether you’re considering a complete makeover, planting a few spuds or just pottering in the garden this spring, seek some advice from www.bordbia.ie/gardentime
Bloom 2011
Bord Bia’s annual gardening and lifestyle show, Bloom will return to the Phoenix Park, Dublin for its fifth year. The event takes place from June 2nd – June 6th. For more information visit www.bloominthepark.com