Over the last few days, we've seen the obvious influx in conversation around COVID-19 in the news. We have also heard more and more talk about the impact that it's having on our garden industry businesses. From closures to shifting business models, our industry is certainly adjusting. 

We will get through, and spring comes (today!) and so will summer. People will garden, hopefully more than ever. But in the meantime, business must go on.

So we compiled a list of things you should be checking on, or be sure your marketing & social media firm is checking on for you.

Read more to learn some suggestions for communication during this unprecedented time.

Professionals striving for relevance in the world of public relations constantly need to stay up to date with all industry trends as well as current events – it’s practically in the job description.

The news cycle is now moving faster than ever before, mostly thanks to various digital platforms. Aside from regular news stories, a great way for public relations professionals to keep up with the happenings around them is to listen to podcasts that are relevant to the job. 

Social media has become increasingly important over the past five years as an integral part of your overall trade show strategy.

Social media can be a great way to drive traffic to your booth at the show when used properly. It is in your best interest to cut through the noise and not only be active on the show floor, but also active online in the coming weeks and days before the show. 

By taking a proactive approach before the show, you are allowing yourself the opportunity to meet as many people as you possibly can.

During the show, we suggest assigning someone to “real-time” social media monitoring. This person can monitor the show chatter as it’s happening, drive traffic to your booth and quickly respond to photo tags and direct messages. This is usually someone who is not onsite, but able to dedicate his or her undivided attention to reaching out to as many people as possible during the show. It is an investment in time and resources, but one that can make a huge difference in your brand’s visibility during the show.

Read on to learn five ways you can utilize social media to start spreading the word and drive foot traffic to your booth at the show before you’ve even set it up.

Gardening is a growing hobby, touted as #5 most popular on many lists.

Below are some recent public relations trends we’ve seen that can impact how brands engage with consumers and stay competitive in the green space.

We told you yesterday people are spending their money with companies that align with their values.

Today, we want to share examples of 5 companies who took the purpose-driven next level. As you read through these examples, see if you can find ways to incorporate them into your brand so you, too can contribute to a new, sustainable and inclusive economy.

The mission? Flower into a person/group/brand with actions, goods, services and experiences that will delight people/customers while looking after our big, beautiful world.

Read more to learn about the brands doing good for good.

A recent report by 5W Public Relations found that 71% of all people surveyed find it important to them to buy from companies that align with their values.

Even more notable, was the Millennials age group with 83% in agreement of its importance, illustrating the increasing trend towards cause marketing, especially in younger consumers.

The general public as a whole has become more aware of the social and political landscape with 59% of people surveyed stating that they like to buy products that show off their social or political ideologies or beliefs.

Some of the trends predicted for 2020 are green collar jobs, frogs, plant-based foods and the color blue. Mushrooms and houseplants also are projected to gain continued momentum.

But how do we know? And how have we been so spot on predicting trends in each of the last 19 Garden Trend Reports?

We use use a number of tools to uncover emerging trends and monitor data in the garden and horticulture landscape. We've got our finger on the pulse of the horticulture, outdoor living, and lawn and garden industries.

Garden trends are also influenced by economics, demographic shifts, technological advances, lifestyle shifts, wellness, policy and more.

From the rise of the Made in the U.S.A. and ‘buy local’ movement to men getting in the garden, growing vegetables and a growing interest in plant based foods, we always have our eye on the horizon.

Read on to learn how we predict, anticipate, or, even better, shape trends to your business’ advantage.

We love trends. Mostly garden trends but we are also suckers for social media trends. This year, the team behind social media management tool Hootsuite has released a list of what they deem to be the most likely social media trends in 2020, following a survey of over 3,000 marketers.

As the new year starts many of you are busy in your content marketing planning. First, stop and  plan for the next big moments in social.

Their top picks included personalized messaging, bold political statements and the continuing rise of TikTok as a platform giant, among others.

Read more for a deep dive into the four game-changers for social media, according to Hootsuite.

As we roll into our 33 year in business, we've worked with hundreds of garden brands and horticulture companies to improve marketing and growth plans. 

You know what we've noticed, many of you face similar issues. When it comes down to it, when you make three important shifts it impacts your brand beyond belief.

Read more to learn how to change your perspective in these three areas and magnify your brand's growth this year and beyond.

This release originally appeared on Garden Media's website.