In 2018, the National Gardening Association conducted a survey revealing that gardening is more popular than ever in American households, with approximately 77% of them engaging in this activity. Surprisingly, the majority of these gardeners are young people, particularly those belonging to the millennial generation (18 to 34 years old). The trend is notably strong among male youngsters who are embracing gardening as a hobby. However, the situation contrasts with that of European countries, where gardening, particularly in Western Europe, is predominantly undertaken by older generations, notably baby boomers. The aging population is anticipated to drive the gardening industry in Western Europe, as millennials there exhibit limited knowledge and interest in gardening. Low-maintenance gardens are favored by the younger generation in Western Europe due to their time and cost efficiency.
Additionally, American gardeners are investing more in residential gardening, setting a record by spending USD 47.8 billion on lawn and garden products and services in 2018. On average, each household spent USD 503 in 2018, marking a USD 100 increase from the previous year. This heightened interest in gardening has led to an increased demand for lawn and garden equipment for tasks such as cutting, trimming, and maintaining lawns and gardens. In contrast, Romania is witnessing a growing interest in gardening among urban dwellers, who are more inclined to use pots and planters for cultivating herbs and spices. In Poland, consumers are placing greater emphasis on proper care for indoor plants, showing awareness of suitable soil and fertilizers. The growing interest in spending time in green spaces has led to an increased need for gardening equipment and lawn mowers to maintain these areas effectively.
The growing interest in gardening in the United States can be attributed to the large houses owned by Americans. The size of American homes, ranging from 1,600 to 1,700 square feet, is influenced by a cultural inclination for spacious living. As a prosperous country, the U.S. has a culture of building houses based on the size and structures of their neighbors' homes. This cultural phenomenon creates a demand for larger gardens to match the architectural scale of the houses, fostering activities such as backyard cooking and hosting garden parties. Consequently, there is an increased demand for lawn and garden equipment to upkeep the yards, enhancing their aesthetics and presentation. The rising interest in gardening is poised to present opportunities for the global lawn and garden equipment market in the forecast period.