Sally
The environment remains a key focus in the wider world and is reflected in gardening trends in a number of ways.
Gardens are slowly stepping away from the sleek urban style and evolving a softer, more relaxed look with plenty of texture, akin to nature itself. Try using natural materials for landscaping including stone and wood. This can be softened further with low-growing plants such as thyme planted between paving slabs. Mixing and matching old paving slabs is a great way to be kind on your wallet and the environment by reusing what you have or purchasing second hand. Alternatively, skip hard landscaping altogether by using plants that perform a similar function, such as small trees and bamboo for screening.
Whilst most gardens dedicate a large portion of their space to a grass lawn, alternatives that support a wider variety of plants and wildlife are becoming popular. Those lucky enough to have space may incorporate a wildflower mini meadow into their garden design. For those with small gardens, a tapestry lawn can work well, bringing both colour and wildlife into the garden. Alternatively, choose a larger single specimen that is popular with pollinators to help support wildlife. If it produces berries or fruits in autumn to help feed wild birds then even better! Cotoneaster, Amelanchier, Rowan and Crab Apples are all ideal.
Growing your own produce is having a resurgence, from a dedicated allotment to potted herbs on a patio. Fruit trees or bushes can be incorporated into an ornamental garden. Mulberry trees have ornate foliage and the large leaves of Figs give an exotic feel. For smaller spaces, Raspberry Groovy has colourful lime green foliage and Blueberry Pink Lemonade has attractive deep pink fruits.
The key takeaways are helping wildlife and reducing your impact on the environment. The beautiful, relaxed looking gardens that result from this are a welcome bonus.
