What’s hot for the coming year – The 2015 Garden Trends Report
Each year, the US-based Garden Media Group releases its highly anticipated report on the top gardening trends for the coming year. The latest report, “Unearthing the Best Life”, not only pinpoints trends that will influence the industry in 2015, it’ll also give you some great ideas for how to keep your garden up to date.
Gardens and healthy living
It may come as little surprise that the report identified a growing belief that outdoor spaces are linked to a healthier lifestyle. Gardens are increasingly seen as an opportunity to grow organic fruit, vegetables and herbs, but they are also being recognised as an area in which the stresses of modern life can be relieved. Gardens are often seen as a space to find calm, even if it’s only for a few minutes, and the need for an accessible, tranquil place is growing as our lives get busier.
“Now, more than ever, the garden is an extension of yourself,” says Susan McCoy, trend spotter and president of Garden Media. “What you cultivate and grow, either inside or out, reflects your personality and the healthy lifestyle you have chosen to live.”
This increased awareness of healthy living means that environmentally friendly, pet friendly and child friendly products will be in demand.
Tip for 2015: Experiment with growing your own produce. Whether you choose chilli, tomatoes, mint or thyme, have a go at cultivating something new – and edible.
Garden-tainment
“Garden-tainment” is the new buzzword for the gardening industry. People are using their outdoor spaces as an extension not only of themselves, but of their homes. Garden parties and barbecues have long been popular during summer months here in the UK, and it’s easy to see why: they get us into the fresh air and a natural environment that’s perfect for socialising.
Tip for 2015: Update your garden furniture and host lots of outdoor gatherings with friends, neighbours and relatives.
Colouring in
Trending colours and styles for 2015 range from vintage to muted rustic to teal. The idea is simply to express your personality through colour in your garden in the same way you would in your home. Adding small details and accessories can also help to customise your space.
Tip for 2015: Think outside the box and get creative with colour in your garden. Not sure where to start? Take a look at our ideas on how to colour your garden gorgeous.
Go wild
The 2014 Chelsea Flower Show featured several gardens that were designed to look a little wild, as if flowers had sprung up naturally from among grasses. This look continues into the coming year, with what the report calls a “bed head style” –outdoor spaces that appear un-styled to create a sense of freedom and informality.
Tip for 2015: These wilder areas work well in larger gardens to soften the more manicured parts. A partially un-styled garden can express the joyful side of nature, while allowing you to retain a more sophisticated spot for entertaining or for eating al fresco.
The complete 2015 Garden Media Trends Report is available to download on the official website.
