10 Garden Trends to Watch for in 2025
This week, we’re “decanting design” and exploring the top garden trends for 2025. These trends focus on fostering health—not just for the environment, but for our physical and emotional well-being as well. Here are my top picks for the year ahead:
1. Pollinator Gardens: Supporting Health and Ecosystems
Pollinator gardens are essential for sustaining ecosystems and our food supply. Pollinator-dependent crops make up 30% of the foods we eat, including nutrient-rich staples like vitamin A-rich vegetables. Designing pollinator gardens involves more than planting flowers—it’s about creating habitats for diverse species such as bees, butterflies, moths, and birds. Start small by focusing on a few species that thrive in your area.
Sources:
Pollinator Power: Nutrition Security Benefits of an Ecosystem Service
2. Native Plants: Building Biodiversity and Resilience
Native plants are not just trendy—they’re vital for climate resilience. These wild varieties have deep root systems, improve carbon sequestration, conserve water, and prevent erosion. Native gardens thrive under drought conditions and are key to supporting local biodiversity.
Source:
Climate Resilient Habitat Increases Ecological Connectivity
3. Soil Health: A Foundation for Growth
Soil health is at the root of every thriving garden. Studies reveal the connection between soil microbes and human health, showing how digging in the dirt can improve both mental and physical well-being. Healthy soil also benefits plant growth, creating a cycle of environmental and personal wellness.
Soil-Derived Bacterium with Stress Resilience Properties
4. Herb Gardens: A Boost for Physical Health
Growing herbs offers numerous health benefits. Fresh herbs like parsley are packed with nutrients such as iron and add incredible flavor to meals. Incorporating herbs into your garden promotes healthful eating while enhancing your cooking.
Health Benefits of Culinary Herbs and Spices
5. Homegrown Food: Freshness for Maximum Nutrition
Freshly picked produce retains more nutrients than store-bought items, making edible landscaping a key trend. Growing your own food connects you to your meals and ensures maximum nutrient density in every bite.
6. Gardening as Exercise: A Low-Impact Workout
Gardening is a fantastic way to stay active. Whether it’s weeding, pruning, or harvesting, these activities promote physical health while fostering a mind-body connection. Even small gardening tasks offer a satisfying sense of accomplishment.
7. Mental Health and Green Spaces
Studies show that spending just 10 minutes a day in green spaces can boost productivity and happiness. Whether it’s hiking, forest bathing, or simply enjoying your garden, integrating nature into your routine is a simple way to enhance mental well-being.
Effects of Green Buildings on Employee Health and Productivity
Research: A Little Nature in the Office Boosts Morale and Productivity
8. Stress Relief Through Outdoor Activities
Nature-based activities, like hiking, reduce stress and promote emotional balance. Sonoma County offers countless scenic trails that combine exercise with stunning views—a perfect way to recharge.
Stanford researchers find mental health prescription: Nature
9. Healing Gardens: Recovery Through Nature
Healing gardens are proven to aid recovery for patients and the elderly. These therapeutic spaces foster physical and emotional healing by reconnecting individuals with nature. Having seen their impact firsthand, I’m hopeful for more widespread adoption of healing gardens in 2025.
Design of hospital healing gardens linked to pre- or post-occupancy research findings
10. A Beautiful, Healthy World
Ultimately, these trends reflect a collective desire to create a healthier, more beautiful world. By prioritizing our physical, mental, and environmental health, we can nurture not only the spaces around us but also ourselves.
What Trend Excites You Most?
Which of these trends resonates with you? Are there any we missed? Share your thoughts and let us know how you’re planning to embrace these ideas in the coming year.
Thank you for joining us on Landscaping with Laura. See you next week!