Johnsons's Garden Centers Text File document - copyright 2003 
PDF file available at http://www.johnsonsgarden.com/newsletter/flowers.html

A Little Nature Grows a Long Way 
May 2003 
Karen Hull, Johnson's East Greenhouse Manager

    There's something new at Johnson's this spring ... our Austram
Planter Shop! Austram Planters are not really new here, but this year we
have a much wider selection of these popular planters.

    What is an Austram Planter? Austram Planters are wire baskets with a
preformed CocoMoss Liner made of natural coconut fiber, the material
found between the soft outer shell and the hard inner shell of the
coconut. In nature, the fiber's purpose it to protect the fruit of the
coconut, and in its natural state is resistant to insect infestation and
disease. Every Austram Planter comes with its own CocoMoss Liner. Each
liner has consistent thickness, eliminating any bald spots that could
lead to soil loss. Better yet, they provide for superior drainage and
aeration. This allows the roots of your plant to " breathe," promoting
healthy root development and exceptional plant growth.

    Austram Planters are intended for outdoor use and are available in
several sizes of hanging baskets, wall planters and window boxes. They
are ideal for flowering annuals, herbs and tropical plants to enjoy on
your porch and patio.

    Austram Planters are very easy to use. Start by selecting plants
with similar growing requirements. Fill the planter with ferti-lome
Ultimate Potting Mix to within 2-3" of the rim. Gently tuck your plants
into the soil, adding soil as needed. Water thoroughly.

    CocoMoss liners have the ability to hold moisture, while letting
excess water drain through the bottom of planter. Under normal growing
conditions, an Austram Planter requires no more frequent watering than
any ordinary plastic basket, and sometimes even less. On windy or
exceptionally hot and dry days, hanging baskets in general will tend to
dry out more quickly, requiring an extra watering. Your Austram Planters
and CocoMoss Liners should last three to five seasons.

    If you have other planters you wish to plant with the CocoMoss
Liners, we have liner by the foot in 2' and 3' widths. We also carry
pre-made round liners for all sizes of baskets and planters.

    Come by to check out our Austram Shop. After selecting your favorite
planters, bring them out to the greenhouse and we will personally help
select blooming annuals to enjoy all summer in your new Austram
Planters!