2023 is just around the corner, and with it comes new garden trends for the year ahead. With garden space becoming more of a must-have part of the home with every passing year, it’s only natural we want them to be a reflection of our personality.
Just like with the earth-toned hues trend taking centre stage in interior design, gardens in 2023 will see a real return to Mother Nature over manicured, uniform gardens. Sustainability and drought-resistant plants are also growing in popularity.
We’ve outlined the full list of garden trends to look out for below in 2023 to inspire your garden upgrade.
Taking mindfulness outdoors
This style of garden focuses on creating a peaceful and calming space that can be used for meditation and relaxation. Plants that would work well in this setting include rosemary, jasmine and lavender.
To create a mindfulness garden, incorporate elements like water features, soothing colours and fragrant plants to your space. Comfortable seating and meditation areas may be some additional zones you want to consider adding.
Drought-resistant plants
Sadly, we’re in a time where the environment is shifting and being mindful about how much water a plant needs is top of mind. Xeriscaping, or designing a garden based on the amount of water a plant needs, is the answer.
The benefit of a xeriscaped garden is that it’s less maintenance and still looks beautiful. If you’re looking to add this style to your garden add cacti, succulents and native grasses. Lavender also does well with little water.
Garden sculptures
Sculptures add visual interest and a unique touch to the space. There are a range of different styles and materials available for your garden, depending on your preferences and which design trends you like.
What sculpture to go for depends on what you want your garden to feel like. Go for playful sculptures peeking between your plants if you want whimsy, or something with clean lines that promotes calmness for soothing effects.
Patterned tiles
An extension of the maximalism trend that’s dominated interior design for the last couple of years, patterned tiles are being seen more and more in gardens. These work well in smaller, urban gardens where space is at a premium but you still want to add some visual interest.
To get the look, include patterned tiles as accents or borders around plant beds, or decorative features such as wall art or garden ornaments. Go bold with the tile and pair with soothing plants, or vice versa for a unique garden feel.
Cottagecore
Cottagecore has taken hold of exterior design in recent years, and this trend shows no signs of abating. This style is characterised by its informal and relaxed design, with a mix of flowering plants and herbs growing in a seemingly haphazard manner.
To achieve the cottagecore look in your garden, engage all the senses for the best effect. Mix together annual and perennial plants like roses, foxgloves, hollyhocks, and lavender for a feast for the eyes. Introduce herbs in between such as thyme, rosemary and mint for sweet scents.
Edible gardens
A combined push towards sustainability and wanting to live off the land has taken hold of gardens in recent seasons. It provides a sustainable and convenient source of fresh produce, allows for greater control over the quality and safety of the food being consumed, and can be a fun and rewarding hobby.
Edible gardens are very flexible and can be designed to suit a range of abilities. If you’re just starting out then potatoes, green beans and strawberries are all easy to grow. More experienced gardeners could experiment with raised beds and greenhouses for more exotic plant varieties.
Ibiza vibes
The carefree, sun-drenched island is known for its arid climate, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring a touch of the Mediterranean into your garden if you’re in a cooler part of the world. Rosemary, thyme and lavender are hardy plants that can grow in most climes.
Features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and seating areas add to the vibe of relaxation, enjoyment, and socialising Ibiza is renowned for. Natural wooden furniture and pale linens for garden cushions complete the effect.
Containers and verticals
Not everyone has the space for a huge garden, but they still want some greenery outside. Growing plants in containers, such as pots, planters, and hanging baskets, has quickly grown in popularity.
Allowing for flexibility in what you can grow and where, growing fruits and vegetables in pots keeps the plant contained and still produces good results. Vertical planters dress up an outside wall with greenery and save on space. It’s a win-win for those with small gardens.
Natural stone
A return to nature has taken a strong hold on garden designs, with natural stone set to be very popular for 2023. Flagstone, slate and granite are some of the options suitable for gardens.
Natural stone patios can be used in a variety of different design styles to suit your tastes and space. While often considered to be more expensive than other materials, natural stone is durable, long-lasting and a beautiful addition to any garden.
Meadows
A ‘Garden of Eden’, bountiful style is another popular option for garden designs in 2023. Choosing a mix of native wildflowers and grasses that will attract local wildlife and fauna is key for a successful meadow garden. Daisies, red campion and buttercups are colourful and popular choices for meadows.
Initially the meadow garden takes some upkeep to establish, including regular weeding and watering. Soon afterwards, nature will take over and you can relax in your newly established meadow.
Final thoughts
There’s a host of different trends that are set to have an impact in 2023. If you’re looking to update you garden in the next few months, taking inspiration from a couple of these will keep your space both current and beautiful.
Is a patio redesign on your radar for 2023? Have a look at our patio designs uk to get some inspiration and see how we can help you achieve your dream garden.
