Garden Design Trends To Think About in 2022

As we all turn our attentions to the growing season to come, it can be useful to look at general garden design trends, and think about how you might become part of those trends as you design, create and tend your garden. 

One thing is very clear – as we begin 2022 we view our gardens as more important than ever before. Over the past couple of years, which have of course been very difficult for many, those of us who already garden have appreciated our gardens even more. And many new people have taken up growing their own, and have spent more time in their own outside spaces. 

The grow your own trend continues to gather pace, and of all the changes people have made due to the pandemic – gardening more, it seems, is one that is likely to stick. But how people garden is also undergoing something of a change – novices who began doing more in their gardens, and experienced gardeners, are looking to the future, and delving deeper into all that their gardens can provide. Here are some trends we expect to drive forward gardeners and gardening over the coming year:

Climate-Conscious Garden Design Trends

There is now of course no doubt in our minds that our world is changing, and not always for the better. But in our gardens, there is a growing awareness of just how much we can do. As gardeners, we can not only avoid contributing to the climate crisis, but can also do a lot that will help to alleviate it. 

There is also a growing awareness of the urgent necessity not only for mitigation, but also for adaptation. We need to create resilient gardens which can withstand the changing climate, and the erratic weather patterns, flooding, and other issues that will become more prevalent in the coming years. 

One of the key garden design trends is that gardeners are increasingly using their gardens to reduce their impact on people and planet – growing more of their own food and other resources, and utilising the things a garden can provide to reduce consumption and cut carbon footprint. 

They are also increasingly understanding the importance of choosing the right plants for the right places – thinking longer term and designing for resilience and adaptability to change. Intentional, climate-conscious gardens is of course nothing new. But awareness and application are both definitely on the rise – good news for 2022. 

Obtaining a polytunnel to grow year round, planting trees, implementing sustainable no dig gardening strategies, managing water more wisely and well… these are just some steps people are taking to mitigate and adapt to climate change in their gardens. 

Localism and Community Mindedness

Through the pandemic, many people have also become increasingly aware of the importance of strong local community. Communities rallied, and came together – showing something like the ‘Blitz spirit’ of the Second World War. They helped out those around them and felt at times a sense of togetherness – even when physically kept apart. 

In gardening, there has been a growth in co-operation, sharing and a collaborative mindset which gives a lot of home for a greener future. Our gardens have been our private havens during lockdowns. But gardeners have also been outward looking. And that generous and outward looking spirit should continue to grow as we move into the next growing season. 

In garden design, another of our key garden design trends is that gardeners are increasingly supporting local businesses, buying seeds, plants, tools and other things they need from smaller local enterprises – helping out local businesses however they can during this difficult time. And gardeners are working together – sharing seeds, plants, knowledge or skills to help others in their neighbourhoods on their own gardening journeys. 

Garden Design Trends Involving Using Gardens for Work and Play

Over the time of upheaval of the last couple of years, many more people have of course been working from home. And many have started working for themselves, or plan to do so. Garden buildings which can be used for work as well as play are becoming ever more popular, and there has been a growth in the number of people looking to derive an income from their gardens. 

People are also recognising the importance of multi-functionality in garden spaces – recognising how they can be carefully designed for work-life balance. Outdoors living spaces are bigger and better than ever. And, increasingly, people understand the importance of spending more time outdoors and seek a deeper connection with the natural world. 

We can expect to see many more gardens being used for both work and play in 2022. 

More is More

As people spend more time in their gardens and recognise just how much they can provide, we’re also seeing garden design trends which involve a move away from more minimalist design to more lush, full and abundant garden spaces. Huge paved areas and simplistic designs are out, in favour of more leafy and densely planted spaces, which surround outdoors living spaces. 

A lush green space provides more privacy, a more relaxing and intimate feel. More densely planted spaces draw in the wildlife we’ve so enjoyed spending time with during lockdowns, and provides so much more in terms of amenity and yields. We can expect gardens to be fuller, with more plants and wildlife, in 2022. 

Fabulous Front Yards

One final key trend of our garden design trends for 2022 is people turning their attentions from back gardens to the front portions of their properties – their front gardens and porch areas. Creating a great first impression for those visiting your home by giving your front yard, however small, an overhaul is on trend for the coming year. 

So whether you fully landscape and plant up a front garden and get rid of an area of lawn, or simply create a small container garden next to the front door – you’ll find that you are not alone in your endeavours this year. 

These are just a few of the key trends to embrace in your garden and as a gardener in 2022. 

If you have any thoughts or comments to share with us about any of these key garden design trends for 2022, please do get in touch below.