Like most things in life, even garden trends come and go. From popular plants and flowers, to shrubs, bushes and trees, new gardening ideas and the right plantings can transform an outdoor space into something that wows. Learn more about how to choose the best look for your yard to give it a chic, up-to-date, modern appeal that is both eye-catching and on point with recent trends.
Secluded Spaces
The ultimate goal in planning any outdoor environment is finding the right combination of lush growth and comfortable, inviting spaces that yard-guests want to be in. Private corners of a yard can be easy to transform into sweet, secluded spots that are ideal for reading, quiet conversations, meditation or even dining al fresco.
It is simple to create a space that’s both secluded yet inviting. It is best to keep seating comfortable, cozy and small. Establishing a boundary is easy using a vine covered trellis, arbor or even tall-growing hedges. You can always build an actual structure too, if the budget is big enough. Adding a water feature or an outdoor firepit can put the final touches on any outdoor secluded sanctuary.
Seasonal Blooming Plants
One of the latest garden trends is a shift in how we plan gardens. Where gardens used to be more driven by the taste of the homeowner who was planting, now it is more the norm to take a hint from nature. Making a conscious effort to put native plants into the ground and to source starts from local resources has transformed how we plan our outdoor spaces. Choosing appropriate perennials that will produce beautiful blooms year after year can maximize efforts, paying off tenfold as the work that goes into planting one year will let gardeners reap benefits year after year.
Organic Gardening
Organic gardening has become both a trend and a movement as society continues to become increasingly conscious of the benefits behind a reduce-reuse-recycle mentality. And simply put, organic gardening has clear and tangible benefits. But even beyond the conventional wisdom that is sometimes associated with “going organic,” there are also many environmental benefits that result from implementing organic practices too. Organic gardens can be beneficial to all aspects of life, from soil health to a consideration for the wellbeing of companion plants, animals, worms and more. Organic gardening is a trend that isn’t likely to go anywhere any time soon.
Symmetrical Plant Placement
Even if you are not an overly symmetrical type in general, symmetry in the garden can provide a cohesiveness and finished look that makes it seem like a professional planned the space. Twinning plants on either side of a door or garden gate, hanging baskets with a bounty of matching spilling blooms or window boxes that set up and frame a house on either side can all add cohesiveness, charm and decorative appeal.
Exotic Plants
Plant an outdoor escape that’s reminiscent of vacation with gorgeous exotic plants like orchids, lilies and other tropical varieties. No need to worry too much about climate, either. There are several cold-hardy tropical plants that will thrive in areas you may not initially expect. Even in colder zones, plant ferns, bamboo, hibiscus, birds of paradise and more to brighten up the yard and create a somewhat-surprising focal point and space that reminds you of sandy beaches and warm summer getaways. Checking out what thrives in a specific planting zone will ensure you plant varieties that will produce and enhance that staycation vibe you’re going after.
Architectural Trees
From whimsical weeping trees to topiaries that spiral and swirl, trees and plants that have an architectural feel and appeal are more popular than ever. Be sure to buy based on informed decisions, not an affinity for the look, shape or feel of a tree. Read the tree tag to make sure it will do well in the conditions (sun, light, soil) it will be planted and grow in. Shape trees carefully the first several years, but by about the fifth season, pruning should be more of a routine maintenance chore rather than further attempts to shape in a specific growth pattern.