FSI Landscape Supply weighs in on gardening trends to expect in 2022. (Source: Homes to love, 9 garden trends we’ll be hedging our bets on in 2022, written by Lucy Francis, September 30, 2021, https://www.homestolove.com.au/gardening-trends-2022-23019.)

Lucy Francis highlights vegetable and herb gardens. She shares that many are returning to simple living with an increased desire to

nurture ourselves and our spaces. FSI Landscape Supply agrees, “vegetable and herb gardens are a trend that was seen last year and seems as if it will continue for many years to come. Growing a vegetable garden can be both therapeutic and functional. Landscaping professionals will need the appropriate supplies to create a garden space that will last and compliment the aesthetics of the surrounding environment. For example, natural stones can enclose a designated area dedicated to vegetable gardens, or retaining walls are also a great option to construct raised garden beds.”

Lucy explains that organic shapes have already played a part in interior aesthetics and will likely make their way outdoors. FSI Landscape Supply shares, “landscape design is an expression of someone’s creativity; we know landscaping professionals and contractors will agree. Each landscape created is truly dependent on the client’s choice or characteristics of the surrounding architecture. In this case, we do have to agree on Lucy Francis. Landscapes replicating natural textures and formations are making a comeback. The world is too structured as it is; why not let nature simply exist or create a landscape to resemble natural patterns and shapes. As the article mentions, linear or over-structured landscapes are now archived designs. Maybe not forever, however; at the moment, many want to enjoy natural beauty without having to travel far. Water features created with natural stones are great for adding natural beauty.”

Kid-friendly spaces are number three on the trend list—Lucy shares to consider an all-inclusive space for children of all ages. FSI Landscape Supply expresses, “older generations will affirm that there was never a day where they spent indoors, regardless of weather conditions. Technology is more accessible now, and children are not the only ones guilty of hours spent in front of a screen. Creating a space for children and young adults to interact with nature or simply spend time outdoors with fresh air is a trend we can all get on board with. Whether it’s a kid-friendly garden area or outdoor hangout space, a few simple landscape supplies can turn an ordinary landscape into the “cool” place to be.”

Turning yard spaces into an outdoor escape is the perfect way to step away from the chaos and busy lifestyles we are all familiar with. Hosting friends and family outdoors gives us a fresh take on entertaining. FSI Landscape Supply shares, “turning a landscape into a personal oasis is a trend that gained quite a bit of interest last year. Many homeowners spent their time and money on home improvements, including outdoor amenities, with social and lifestyle restrictions. Outdoor living spaces encouraged many homeowners to find joy, peace, relaxation, and comfort in their own backyards. Therefore, it is easy to see why this trend will continue longer than anticipated. Last year, natural stones, patio stones, decorative gravel, and landscape lighting were in high demand. These landscaping supplies were used to create many outdoor amenities. Which included outdoor living spaces, gardens, outdoor dining area and kitchen, water features, patios, and pool decks.”

At number five, Lucy mentions that with the help of Instagram, mid-century design is making a massive comeback. FSI Landscape Supply shares, “We love how versatile landscaping supplies can be. The same material used to create a simple aesthetic can transform a space and take us back in time. For example, oversized paving stones can create a cozy fire pit, not specific to any era. Yet the same oversized paving stone can be used to recreate mid-century designs as mentioned in the article.”

Stress-free, untamed gardens are number six on the trend list. FSI Landscape Supply expresses, “allowing gardens to take their natural path is becoming increasingly popular. However, it is still essential to maintain the condition of the soil and mulch. Landscaping professionals and contractors may want to remind their clients that trends are here today and maybe gone tomorrow. Therefore, it is always best to look after the soil to encourage a healthy landscape no matter which trend they indulge in.”   

Lucy brings our attention to creating a beautiful and functional trend. Plants native to our environment create a robust garden and conserve biodiversity by encouraging native wildlife. FSI Landscape Supply agrees, “wildlife enthusiasts will certainly want to consider incorporating indigenous plants into their landscape. Water features such as a natural stone pond will also encourage wildlife visitors.”     

Lucy mentions the trend of creating authentic landscapes. The trend aims to create a landscaped garden that feels natural to the space. FSI Landscape Supply agrees, “adding layers and levels will complement the landscape by adding texture and dimension. As the article mentions, you can create a space that feels natural, or you can work with what already exists. For example, suppose a landscape has a natural slope. In that case, landscaping contractors will sometimes use that natural gradation and incorporate natural stone steps.”   

Lastly, at number nine is the alfresco dining trend. FSI Landscape Supply agrees, “dining outdoors has always been a favorite pass time. The idea of creating an at-home outdoor kitchen and dining space is becoming increasingly popular each year. Dining alfresco can be simple or elaborate, depending on the landscape space. For this trend, all you need is a bit of creativity and the desire to enjoy a meal alfresco.”