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Hello, again!
The way we listen to music today is vastly different from how we did in the past. Back then, a trip to Argus Tapes and Records was necessary to buy the latest releases from our favorite artists - whether on 78s or 33 RPMs. I remember owning Barbara Ann by The Beach Boys and The Ballad of the Green Berets by Sgt. Barry Sadler on 78s. My first album purchase was Chicago Transit Authority, a double album I picked up at the Rexall store in the Indian Hills Shopping Center. Over time, my collection grew to include albums from ZZ Top, The Who, Deep Purple, The Doobie Brothers, Eagles, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Neil Diamond, and Jethro Tull. These days, my Spotify playlist still features those artists, along with a good mix of Motown and ’70s disco.
The 1970s brought significant changes, not just in music but across society. Following our nation’s involvement in the Vietnam War, cultural shifts were evident in fashion, television, movies, technology, and social movements. Our garden center evolved as well. While we carried a small selection of houseplants in the ’60s, something caused an explosion in demand during the ’70s. Some say the anti-war and environmental movements played a role - houseplants became a symbol of resistance and eco-conscious living.
Our houseplant selection has come a long way since then! In the ’70s, popular choices included spider plants, pothos, snake plants, and philodendrons -timeless classics that remain favorites today. However, today’s options offer even more variety in foliage, colors, and growth habits, all while being easy to care for.
I like to recommend the ZZ Plant because it’s extremely drought tolerant and thrives in low to moderate light. I also recommend pilea, peperomia, ficus varieties, sansevieria, hoya, and tradescantia. They’re all excellent indoor plants with unique characteristics.
When it comes to fertilization, ferti-lome offers several great options depending on your plants’ needs. Their All-Purpose Water-Soluble Plant Food promotes lush green foliage and vibrant blooms - perfect for houseplants, geraniums, hanging baskets, pansies, patio plants, and other ornamentals.
Additionally, ferti-lome’s Houseplant Hero line provides targeted nutrition for all types of houseplants, including specialty plants like orchids, succulents, and cacti.
Thinking back to the ’70s, one of my favorite concert memories has to be The Who at Kemper Arena in Kansas City on December 1, 1975. Cameras were allowed in the audience back then, and my favorite image from that night is of Pete Townshend mid-air, guitar in hand. Relive the concert here.
What are some of your favorite music memories?
Your friend in the garden,
Marty Johnson
Owner - Johnson's Garden Centers
