The Long-Awaited Return of the Beloved MANTS Nursery Trade Show!

The Mid-Atlantic Nursery Trade Show at the Baltimore Convention Center stands out as my top January event (indeed, without any close rivals). Last year hinted at a comeback after the pandemic, but then the omicron variant emerged, and I, like many, opted to stay home and wallow in disappointment.

Yet this week, the event made its comeback — possibly its most joyous and well-attended ever! This includes the side events tailored for garden writers, like the gathering at the Lord Baltimore Hotel. Marianne Willburn, Scott Beuerlein, and I (flashing a playful thumb gesture) enjoyed the company of podcaster Leslie Harris.

Pictured to the left are Leslie’s Charlottesville pals, Sarah Schrock and Abbie Shelhamer from Abigail Gardens (they have a stunning website!). Their presence has sparked my interest in visiting Charlottesville.

Highlights from the Trade Show Floor Several standout booths on the convention center floor truly showcased stellar merchandising amidst a mixed bunch. Here are some that caught my eye:

• Colmet’s presentation was undeniably captivating, showcasing their steel landscape edging in a dramatic manner.

• FloweringLawn.com introduced the term “flawn” for flowering lawns. I’m rooting for its popularity.

• The Pottery Patch had me lingering, wishing I could take their entire collection home.

• A chat with a representative from Beechdale Frames led to a light-hearted conversation about dog and cat signs.

• The Southern Exposure Seed Exchange garnered significant attention. Meanwhile, the Royal Gold company from Humboldt, County California showcased its unique offerings.

• The Bennett Plants exhibit of clustered succulents was hard to resist.

• George Bridge Boxwoods displayed their impressive boxwoods, which I hope thrive post-exhibition.

• While whimsical metal creatures always tempt me, I’m uncertain if they’d fit in with my garden aesthetics. I was, however, thoroughly impressed with the lighting fixtures presented by another vendor.

• I appreciate Plantaflor USA’s innovative take on modern plants, and Beaver Dam Woodworks made me yearn for coastal vibes with their “Amish hand-crafted nautical decor.”

• Guest ranter Mary Vaananen provided some delightful conversation, and the Instant Hedges offering piqued my curiosity.

• A hearty nod of approval to the dwarf conifers presented by Rare Tree Nursery.

• A fellow garden writer recommended the Mossify booth, which surprised me with its unique houseplant stakes rather than moss displays. Their sustainability and practicality remain questions in my mind.

Anticipating 2024 I’m eagerly awaiting next year’s event. This year was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with the gardening community and fellow writers. The event truly is a winter highlight for me.

Kudos to the MANTS team for their hospitality and the unwavering support they offer to garden communicators.