2019 GARDEN TRENDS: What's Hot?!

One thing I anticipate every year is reading all the predictions of what’s going to be ‘hot’ in the gardening world. There are so many brilliant lists out there that always seem to hit the mark! After lots of reading from all the top gardening sites and bloggers’ predictions, I have narrowed it down to nine favorites (these are in no particular order).

1. One-upping the neighbors.
   Plant lovers are becoming more daring (millennials in particular) wanting to find weird, unusual and unique varieties to make notable first impressions in their outdoor spaces. They want plants that no one else has to make a huge impact. I agree with this 100%! Who doesn’t want to win the neighborhood ‘Yard of the Month’?!
2. Fiery and bright color combinations.
   The latest fashion trends of bright oranges, yellows, reds and other bold, statement-making hues are filtering into the plant world. Yes, you heard that right, fashion color crazes are making their way to the garden. Combining vibrant, blazing tones of the same or different plant varieties in containers or border groupings will create the ultimate show-stopping effect. Now you are in the know!
3. Cutting gardens.
   Symmetrical, cookie-cutter landscapes are OUT and relaxed, asymmetrical, unstructured cottage-like gardens are IN! Laid-back groupings of cut flower varieties planted in garden borders along with hardscaping foliage plants create easy access to impromptu flower arrangements. Everyone wants to be their own florist!
4. Staycation spots.
   Research shows that consumers are spending more on outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, furniture, lighting, décor and lush plants to create the ultimate staycation spots right in their own backyards! Relaxing outdoors in a beautiful space with friends and family is definitely on the top of my list after a long day/week at work!
5. Foliage gardens.
   Speaking of a long day or week at work, consumers are looking for easy but impressive foliage plants that are permanent, evergreen or that will return every year. There are so many varieties in this category to choose from that will create dramatic, monochromatic hues with loads of different textures to make your neighbors drool!
6. Fragrant varieties.
   In keeping with the ‘staycation’ vibe, fragrant blooms add to the relaxing ambience of your outdoor spaces. Lilies, peonies and lily of the valley are a few varieties to add to patio borders and containers for that zen-like aura!
7. ‘Urban jungles’.
   This topic is plastered all over Instagram and garden/plant bloggers’ sites. City dwellers, as well as suburban/rural dwellers, want green spaces and clean air. Container plants placed on balconies, patios and indoors do just the trick! Not just one or two – LOADS of pots and containers of all sizes to hang or arrange on ledges, tables or on the floor. Some of the photos of these indoor and outdoor displays are incredible. Check it out!
8. Food in the landscape.
   Dual functioning plantings are becoming more and more popular. Adding herbs, strawberries or blueberries to container combinations and border design provide amazing textures, foliage and scents that one would normally not think of. Ingenious idea!
9. Pampering nature.
   If you haven’t gotten on the ‘nurturing the pollinators’ bandwagon you must be living in a hole. Planting bird, bee and butterfly friendly varieties not only preserve the lives of these vital components of nature, they add loads of color and scents to your spring and summer gardens. Save the pollinators!

That’s a wrap! Hope you have been enlightened and inspired to get a jump start on your 2019 garden plans. Happy planting!