American in Bloom highlights 'surprising side of plants'

America in Bloom has released a 12-page, full color educational brochure titled, "Discover the Surprising Side of Plants."
Based on research and publications by America in Bloom (AIB) board member Charlie Hall (Texas A&M Ellison Chair in International Floriculture) and others, the brochure summarizes benefits of plants "beyond pretty" for people, communities, neighborhoods and offices.

Illustrated with photos from many participating AIB towns, the brochure concludes that "quality landscapes are a necessity, not a luxury."

A Power Point presentation based on the brochure is available for teachers to use and for others to share in their own presentations.

The brochure will be offered to attendees at the AIB exhibit at the Philadelphia Flower Show, at OFA's Short Course and other venues. AIB sponsors at the gold or higher level are eligible to receive up to 500 complimentary copies.

"This piece is an ideal promotional tool for nurseries and garden centers," said Marvin Miller, AIB president. "We feel so strongly about the benefits of plants to the wellbeing of people, towns and even the economy, that we are offering the printed brochure to interested parties at our cost, plus shipping."

To download the brochure and related presentation, go to www.americainbloom.org/discover_plants.aspx.