The relentless march of time ushers in not only a new year but a fresh batch of inspiring landscaping trends. As we tiptoe into the second half of 2023, the curtain lifts on an ever-evolving scene, with the spotlight falling on nature-based, sustainable, and multi-purpose designs. Here we delve into the top 10 landscaping trends making waves this year.
Sustainability & Low Maintenance
2023 continues the trend towards eco-friendly, low-maintenance gardens. The once clean-cut, green lawn is giving way to native plants and drought-resistant species that require minimal intervention and resources. Such gardens are not only kinder to the environment but also the pocketbook and your time.
Outdoor Living Spaces
The ongoing global situation has encouraged homeowners to explore their living spaces beyond the four walls. Patios, decks, and pergolas have morphed from purely functional spaces to outdoor living rooms, replete with weather-resistant furniture, fire pits, and outdoor heaters, allowing for year-round use.
Naturalistic Design
Moving away from rigid, symmetrical designs, the naturalistic landscape is gaining traction. These gardens, characterised by free-flowing, organic layouts, mimic the wilderness and offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Micro-Vegetable Gardens
Urban dwellers are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of growing their own food. Compact vegetable gardens, either on the ground or in raised beds, have sprouted in backyards, patios, and balconies, serving both as a food source and a therapeutic hobby (especially in regards to landscaping Essendon and other inner-city suburbs).
Smart Irrigation
In an era where smart technology has permeated almost every aspect of life, it’s no surprise that it’s making a splash in landscaping. Automated irrigation systems can be controlled via smartphone, ensuring efficient watering, saving water and contributing to the overall sustainability effort.
Multisensory Experiences
Landscapes of 2023 aim to engage more than just sight. Fragrant flowers, rustling leaves, the tactile allure of diverse foliage textures, and water features create a symphony of sensory experiences, drawing people into the beauty and tranquillity of nature.
Wildlife-Friendly Spaces
Supporting local biodiversity has become a top priority. Wildlife-friendly gardens – with native plantings, bird feeders, insect hotels and ponds – offer safe havens for birds, insects, and other small animals, fostering a mini-ecosystem in the backyard.
Dark Hued Foliage
The charm of dark-hued foliage continues to grow, offering a dramatic contrast against green landscapes and brightly coloured flowers. The likes of Black Mondo grass and Heuchera ‘Obsidian’ are making bold statements in gardens.
Edible Landscaping
Edible landscaping goes beyond the traditional vegetable patch. Homeowners are integrating edible plants such as herbs, vegetables, and fruit trees into the broader garden design, resulting in spaces that are not just aesthetically pleasing, but also offer delicious harvests.
Personalised Themes
With the increase in remote work and staycations, homeowners are opting for personalised landscape themes, from Zen gardens and tropical paradises to English cottage gardens, bringing their travel dreams alive in their backyards.
In 2023, the trend is clear: our gardens are becoming more than just spaces to admire
They’re evolving into sustainable, practical, and versatile outdoor rooms, contributing to our health, wellbeing, and sense of environmental responsibility. As we forge ahead, it’s exciting to contemplate the infinite potential the world of landscaping holds.