Housing slump could affect ornamental plant sales

 Irrigation Association reports that the turf and landscape side of the irrigation industry could be slowed by a weakening housing market, resulting in reduced ornamental plant sales. The association cited U.S. Commerce Department figures in late 2006 that showed home construction had dropped to its lowest level in almost eight years.

Jeff Carowitz of Strategic Force marketing said landscaping is one of the last things finished on a new home.

“There is a lag time before a slowdown in housing begins to show in the results of irrigation manufacturers, distributors and contractors,” Carowitz said.

The association said high energy costs, increased use of ethanol, a strong agricultural economy, a new farm bill, food safety and labor issues would be significant factors for agriculture and agricultural irrigation this year.

Congress was expected to pass a new farm bill with an emphasis on conservation and energy that could have a major impact on agriculture.

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For more: Irrigation Association, 6540 Arlington Blvd. , Falls Church , VA 22042-6638; (703) 536-7080; www.irrigation.org.