Recently, Chris, my husband, and I enjoyed breakfast at a new restaurant: Maple and Hash in Pingree Grove. While the food was delicious, what I liked even more was that it felt like we were experiencing a new trend in dining. The exposed beam ceilings, painted farm silhouettes, and a coffee bar were all beautiful and welcoming. For an hour or so on a Saturday morning we were part of a refreshing change.
Ready to implement a change in your yard? These are the top 10 Gardening Trends for 2023.
1. Planning and planting that takes into account the architecture of the home and size of the space results in an easier to maintain landscape. The outcome is thoughtful simplicity. This is achieved with fewer, but well thought out plants. Clean lines and simplicity combine to create the number one trend to watch in 2023.
2. A green and white color scheme is a very classic look that originates from gardens designed in France in the 1800s. This color combination has literally stood the test of time. Designed correctly, this can result in flowers throughout several seasons.
3. Sustainable gardening will continue to gain momentum this year. Sustainability is working to meet our own needs in such a way that doesn’t compromise the ability of future generations to meet their own. Eco-friendly products such as organic herbicides, biodegradable planting containers, natural rubber hoses and tools made from wood continue to be more readily available and affordable.
4. Study after study has shown that gardening is a great way to beat the blues. Pruning, pulling weeds or deadheading flowers in the sun can be a great mood lifter. Gardening for our emotional wellbeing is definitely on the rise for 2023.
5. Concentrated bursts of color really stand out in a garden. Achieving color through containers of flowers is a trend to watch this summer. Planters offer the perfect opportunity to highlight a mix of bold colors at key places throughout the landscaping.
6. Herb gardening is a fun way to grow an edible crop. Herbs are an inexpensive way to add flavor to a meal. Most herbs can be easily be grown from seed. Basil, chives, and cilantro top the most popular herb list.
7. A very popular indoor home décor trend includes the use of dried flowers. They can be used in making wreaths, garlands and in flower arranging. Choosing plants that produce beautiful dried or pressed flowers add joy year-round — both outside and inside.
8. Frugal gardening by finding ways to save money is a key trend of 2023. Money can be saved by sharing plants with friends, dividing plants that you already have, planting seeds and buying used tools.
9. Incorporating plants that engage our senses and allow us to more easily relax and enjoy being outside is an up-and-coming gardening trend this year. Plants such as lavender, lamb’s ear and rosemary are all delightful and work well in a sanctuary garden. These gardens may also incorporate a small area to sit and can include a relaxing water feature.
10. Foliage is an underappreciated characteristic of plants. The structure, texture and color of leaves combine to provide interest in plantings. More emphasis on the beauty of foliage will definitely highlight the gardening trends of 2023.
Will 2023 be the year that you implement a few of these trends in your yard? Whichever trend or trends you choose, I hope they bring you joy in your garden.
Kathleen Carr is the owner of The Growing Scene, Inc., a landscaping company. She can be reached by calling 815-923-7322 or emailing her at Kathleen@thegrowingscene.com. Have a gardening question? Please contact her. She may address it in an upcoming column.
