Syngenta acquires Conrad Fafard
Agribusiness giant Syngenta agreed to acquire Conrad Fafard for $135.5 million. Fafard produces packaged growing media for ornamental growers and consumers. The privately held company headquartered in Agawam, Mass., has 240 employees with production sites in the Eastern U.S. and Canada. "This acquisition advances our strategy to expand in the fast-growing lawn-and-garden market," said John Atkin, COO of Syngenta Crop Protection. "Fafard has a leading position with ornamental growers in North America and a consistent record of growth. Its strong brand will give Syngenta the opportunity to become the first full range supplier to professional growers."

Fair weather returns, retailers rejoice
Spring rains wilted sales at some California nurseries, but retailers hope to recoup losses this summer, according to a report in the San Luis Obispo Tribune. The article states that March and April sales dropped by as much as 70% at some nurseries. But many retailers remain hopeful that a portion of lost sales can be made up. A booming housing market fueling demand for landscaping could contribute to a late-season comeback.

Parasitic vine spotted in San Francisco area
Japanese dodder, an aggressive, parasitic vine, was found in Contra Costa County, near San Francisco, according to a report from the local CBS affiliate. The vine has bright yellow-orange stems and minute leaves. It's known to attack live oaks and fruit trees. Infestations have also been found in Texas, Florida and South Carolina.

Report offers insight on gift giving habits
The typical gift-giver spent $1,935 buying gifts in 2005, according to a report from Research and Markets. About 60% of the budget was spent buying gifts for holidays ($1,190) and about 40% buying gifts for other occasions like birthdays, weddings and anniversaries. Candles and candle accessories were the most frequently purchased gift item, bought by 35% of respondents. Flowers, plants and garden accessories were purchased by 32% of gift givers; 20% opted for seasonal decorations and ornaments; and 18% bought gifts for pets.

D.S. Cole hosts open house
New varieties will be on display at D.S. Cole Growers' annual open house, Aug. 3 in Loudon, N.H. Consultant Terri Coldreck of Color Results will discuss merchandising with color during an education session. Visitors can also tour the facility's All-America Selections display garden and retail location.

X-Factor contest winner selected
Congratulations to James Arellano of Spencer Lawn & Garden Center in Fountain, Colo., who won the June X-Factor contest and received $400 worth of Two Dogs Designs product.

Worth a visit
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