Factors influencing consumers' selection of garden centers

A consumer-oriented survey at eighteen independently owned garden centers in North Carolina focused on why consumers selected a particular garden center and why they purchased the particular products they selected. Results indicate that potential customers are looking for garden centers that offer good quality plants, a wide selection of plant material, a knowledgeable sales staff, and a convenient location. There is also evidence that most shopping trips are planned and garden centers may be losing potential sales.