Baby, it’s cold outside. But greenhouse growers are in spring-forward mode with seed starting, propagating and preparing for the high consumer season. At home, snowbirds are getting out of dodge in northern regions for warm-weather getaways and leaving their houseplants behind. (We’ve got a plan for you.) Landscapers and arborists are in the field, with better foliage-free sight lines for removing dead, diseased and dying branches. And following a year of epic storms and wildfires, professionals are on call and in disaster recovery mode

At JRM, we’re also thinking spring despite sub-zero temperatures at our Cleveland, Ohio, headquarters. And we’ll be on the road at all kinds of trade shows and conferences. Find us at @jrm_inc. For now, here are some “problems solved” to boost your business and, if you’re a homeowner, provide practical ways to help your plants thrive.

Minimize Labor Pains + Maximize Productivity
January is go-time for commercial greenhouse growers that are busy propagating plants to get a jumpstart on spring—a race toward Mother’s Day, when consumers typically start buying outdoor plants. Year-round, greenhouses that produce houseplants and interiorscape stock are constantly starting seeds, monitoring growth and prepping inventory for retailers. But finding people and hardworking employees can also be a perennial challenge, even with automation reducing some manual labor.

>>Problem Solved: Reduce high-maintenance watering and plant loss by incorporating Soil Moist into your commercial growing operation. It lowers plants’ water requirements by 50% while alleviating some labor burden. Plus, it lasts in soil for up to five years and you can market the value to wholesalers and retailers with our tags.

A Handy ‘Neighbor’ to Water Plants
You can put your friends or neighbors on the hook for watering houseplants while you’re away during winter travel — whether that means a ski trip or balmy cruise. Rather than passing out your house key or lock code, enlist in a JRM “neighbor” for watering.

>>Problem Solved: Soil Moist Vacation Mats are made from water-storing polymer woven cloth and soak up to 2 quarts of water. Roots access moisture when needed, and mats keep plants watered for up to three weeks. Line a baking sheet with the soil mat and place containers on the surface, ensuring drainage holes are exposed for absorbing water. Another way to use Vacation Mats is to line a container or hanging basket with the mat prior to planting.

Lose Compromised Tree Limbs
Tree specialists know that winter is a great time to prune trees and shrubs, along with managing larger-scale tree work like removing limbs that could cause property damage or are interfering with utility lines. Trees are dormant during this season, so identifying problem areas is much easier. And lack of foliage allows arborists to see the canopy structure without leaves in the way.


>>Problem Solved: For clients who lost trees in storms or needed tree removal last season or this winter, suggest replanting a tree or shrub to help make up for the loss. Soil Moist Root Dip-Endo/Ecto increases plant establishment and growth, improves the soil and plant ecosystem, and reduces transplanting stress. It’s insurance for your customers will ease concerns about plant loss (and more cost).

Gather Home & Garden Inspo
Winter is home and garden show season with expos across the country designed to inspire outdoor living projects and gardens. Check us out at the International Erosion Control Association (IECA) Annual Conference & Expo, Feb. 25-28 in Richmond, Va., at booth #512. Later in the year, visit us at the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) show (booth #1527), October 10-13 in New Orleans. 

Follow Us, Visit Us, Share with Us 

Keep up with JRM during our travels and stay on top of the latest news by following us on Instagram @jrm_inc. Also, tap into our library of resources for guidance, ideas and news. We’re pleased to introduce our latest catalogue, and contact us any time.