With spring around the corner, do you need inspiration for your 2025 garden? Here is a look at the top three trends in garden design and the plants that can help elevate your outdoor style.
Each year, Monrovia – one of the nation’s largest growers of premium plants, trees and shrubs – analyzes data from its research studies to predict major trends in plants and garden design. The company conducts an online study surveying 1,400 homeowners across the U.S. who purchase outdoor plants. On a monthly basis, the company also creates mobile surveys asking plant shoppers about design ideas, growing needs and plant colors and types. These data are then paired with extensive scouting of the connections between gardening and art, design, cooking, family and other lifestyle pursuits to help inform Monrovia’s 2025 Garden Design Trend Report.
“We’re able to spot trends forming in gardening that connect to shifts in overall consumer behavior,” said Katie Tamony, chief marketing officer and trend spotter at Monrovia.
Trend #1: The Modern Meadow
“One trend we’re watching for 2025 and beyond is a design we’re calling the Modern Meadow – 28% of those we surveyed say they want their garden to have a more natural look,” said Tamony. “That number grew 6% since last year.”
Modern Meadow gardens are a full sensory experience, with color, movement and a connection to nature. Modern Meadows add a relaxing beauty and vitality to the garden.
“More than half of the homeowners we surveyed say gardening is good for their mental health and well-being,” Tamony said. “Those that say gardening helps them feel hopeful and positive has increased 4%. Many are interested in a garden design that helps them feel good, adding beauty but also contributing to the larger life experience. The Modern Meadow design helps provide that feeling.”
By choosing the right plants for the space, Modern Meadows can be low maintenance and drought tolerant once established. The modern take on this natural garden style has the appeal that people seek with native plants, but it’s better behaved and easier to care for.
“The key is choosing climate appropriate diversity for your meadow,” said Tamony. You’ll have the feeling of a wild meadow with beautiful grasses and colorful, pollinator-friendly perennials, just on an easier-to-manage scale. Modern Meadows are beautiful and free flowing, inviting birds and bees and humans to find joy in the landscape.
Trend #2: Bold Colors & Lush Layers
While serene neutrals are always going to be popular in home design, we’re seeing bolder, playful colors in paint and fabrics too. That trend toward bold color is becoming more popular in the outdoors. “Color is another way to infuse the garden with joy,” said Tamony.
“We are craving the depth and energy of strong color in the landscape,” she said. “Breeders are delivering on that need with blooms and foliage in deep, color saturated hues. This trend focuses on adding layers of lush richness to the garden, then framing the color with cool whites and greens.”
Trend #3: The Garden of Abundance
For many gardeners, the goal is to create a productive space that is teeming with life, which means choosing plants that attract butterflies, bees and other pollinators. The process of creating a pollinator-friendly space makes many gardeners feel more in touch with nature and expands their connection to the garden.
“We are seeing the need for connection advancing how we look at the Garden of Abundance trend,” said Tamony. “In addition to pairing beauty and productivity, we’re seeing new combinations that bring a touch of nostalgia to the garden.”
Monrovia’s survey found that 36% of those polled say gardening reminds them of simpler times and makes them feel nostalgic. That number is up 4% since last year.
An Abundant Garden features edible perennials mixed with pollinator attractors and shrubs in interesting combinations. Hydrangeas are being paired with blueberries to create a beautiful and edible hedge. Strawberries and apples are being tucked in with roses not only to maximize space, but also to create a happy and nostalgic feel.
Find your new favorite plants in Monrovia’s Distinctive Selections Guide.
