1 TRADE SHOWS TROPICAL PLANT INTERNATIONAL EXPO (TPIE) More than 400 exhibitors from around the world showcased their latest products and plants at the Tropical Plant International Expo (TPIE), which took place Jan. 22-24 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Nearly 7,000 attendees from all around the world attended sessions and perused the more than 400 exhibitor booths. 2 3 1. Monrovia's chief marketing officer and trendspotter Katie Tamony said their consumer research is showing homeowners are increasingly interested in more vibrant color as well as upright or vining plants for their patios. 2. Living walls were featured in several booths; Architectural Supplements (ASI) took theirs a step further by setting up a selfie spot on the show floor. 3. The Create Theater on the show floor offered several demonstrations, including a plant design demonstration by floral designer Terry Godfrey. 4. Agri-Starts showcased several edibles in a " Plants That Taste Good " display - including its vanilla 'Sunshine State', which received a Cool Product Award from The Garden Center Group. 4 LGRMAG.COM | 19http://www.LGRMAG.COM