Homeowners are becoming more interested in gardening, green living and growing their own food, according to trendspotter and public relations consultant Susan McCoy of Garden Media Group. In her new Garden Media Group 2009 Trends Report, she calls it “GIY,” which stands for “grow it yourself.”

“It’s a resurgence of gardening for the greater good – for the Earth and our wallets,” she said. “The most exciting movement seems to be that gardening is popular again, particularly among other homeowners.”

The assertion is backed by survey evidence showing that spending associated with do-it-yourself lawn and garden activities – things such as lawn care, vegetable gardening, and herb gardening – were up $1 billion, according to the National Gardening Association.

Garden Media Group’s report goes on to list several things that are “in” and “out” for 2009, such as local and native plants (in), conspicuous consumption (out), gardeners taking classes (in), “over the top” garden designs (out), and so forth. You can read all about it by downloading the GMG Report (PDF).