Barack and Michelle Obama decided to plant an organic garden in the White House to inspire U.S. citizens to become more connected with the food they eat, and it looks like their effort has been a smashing success. The National Gardening Association reports that 43 million families will have a home garden in 2009--37% of all U.S. households.
These figures are even more staggering when you consider that in 2008, 36 million families reported growing vegetables, fruit, herbs, or berries at home. That's a rise of 19% over the course of one year. While the economy and rise in awareness of eco-friendly practices are certainly crucial factors in this growth, the White House garden championed by Michelle Obama has definitely brought home gardening to national media attention.
What's Driving This Trend
- Home Gardening Boom
- The rise in home gardening has created opportunities for companies to innovate and create new products to cater to this market.
- Organic Farming
- The Obama's decision to plant an organic garden at the White House inspired more people to pursue organic farming and increased demand for organic produce.
- Awareness of Healthy Eating
- The increased interest in home gardening highlights a trend towards healthier eating habits among consumers, creating opportunities for food companies to offer healthier products.
Who This Affects Most
- Agriculture
- The home gardening boom presents an opportunity for agricultural companies to provide education, tools and supplies for home gardeners.
- Food
- The rise in awareness of healthy eating and home gardening has created opportunities for new products in the food industry, such as organic produce and healthy snacks.
- Home & Garden
- The increase in home gardening has created a new market for home and garden companies to offer tools, supplies and furnishings to cater to this growing trend.
