Gardening and landscaping may seem like areas immune to fashion changes, since many perennials can last for decades regardless of trends.
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However, just like flowers return each spring, new landscaping trends emerge and spread each season.
The problem is that not all of them are worth the effort. That’s why landscaping experts shared which styles they’d like to leave behind, according to Real Simple.
Diamond paving with artificial grass
The idea of using diamond-shaped slabs interspersed with artificial grass may look modern, but it doesn’t appeal to everyone. Landscape designer Trent Brown of Ground Break Design considers this trend dated and impractical, especially in patio areas or where furniture is placed. In addition to limited aesthetics, the uneven surface between the slabs and artificial grass can make it difficult to use chairs and tables.
Flower rings around trees
Landscape designer Laura Janney of The Inspired Garden Masterclass recommends avoiding this practice. For her, trees are natural sculptures that should be valued on their own. Planting flowers around them can detract from their presence and give the garden an artificial look.
Overly manicured landscaping
While symmetry appeals to some, Janney believes gardens with rigidly pruned shrubs and flawless rows of plants look artificial. She suggests making space for nature by allowing spontaneous plants like clovers and dandelions. Choosing lighter perennials with varying heights, textures, and bloom times creates a more natural and welcoming effect.
Chaos gardening
On the opposite extreme, the trend known as “chaos gardening” also doesn’t convince. Although marketed as a self-sustaining style, it can quickly get out of hand. Many seeds don’t germinate well on their own, and weeds often take over. For those seeking low-maintenance options, the alternative is to invest in self-seeding perennials, drought-resistant species, and fast growers.
Dyed mulch
Another practice experts reject is the use of dyed mulch in red or black. Besides looking artificial, this type of mulch can harm the environment. According to Real Simple, the best option is natural mulch, which maintains garden aesthetics and decomposes more sustainably.
Monochromatic plant palettes
While gardens in shades of green and white have their charm, Brown believes they’ve lost their impact. He argues that mixing colors like blue, pink, and purple, along with ornamental grasses, creates much more movement and visual interest than a monochromatic composition.
Overdone container gardens
Pots are great allies in outdoor décor, but too many can create visual clutter. Janney recommends quality over quantity: two large, well-placed pots highlight a home’s entrance much better than a collection of small containers.
Landscaping that doesn’t match the climate
Finally, adapting trends to the local climate is essential. Ben Ashton of Rocky Mountain Turf points out that styles like cottage gardens, charming in humid regions, are unsustainable in arid areas like Utah due to irrigation restrictions. The key is to choose species suited to the environment where you live.
Source: RealSimple. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
