As we step into the future, the gardening world is evolving, bringing forth innovative trends beyond our homes' walls. The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) has unveiled the top gardening trends for 2024, offering a glimpse into the ever-changing landscape of horticulture.
Environmental Considerations: Tending to Mother Earth
Environmental consciousness takes center stage in 2024, with gardeners embracing eco-friendly practices. Initiatives like "Leave the Leaves" reduce landfill waste, while the shift from gas-powered to battery-operated machinery minimizes carbon emissions. Gardeners are creating habitats for overwintering insects, practicing rewilding by converting lawns into meadows and choosing peat-free potting soils to protect vital wetland ecosystems. By supporting brands focused on native plants, like American Beauties, gardeners contribute to biodiversity and reduce resource consumption.
Growing Fruit: A Juicy Trend
Growing fruit at home has become a fun and low-maintenance alternative to vegetables. Persimmons and pawpaws take the spotlight, offering unique choices beyond the traditional apples and peaches. Container fruit gardening introduces varieties like Bushel and Berry blueberries, Fignomenal dwarf figs, and Sweet Kiss strawberries, making fruit cultivation accessible to beginners and seasoned gardeners.
Houseplant Decor: Bringing the Outdoors In
Indoor gardening experiences a surge in popularity, transforming homes into green sanctuaries. The concept of "plant parenting" has become widespread, and houseplants have become integral to interior decor. Proven Winners responds to the demand with lifestyle house plant collections featuring popular choices like Dracaena trifasciata, Monstera, pothos, Anthurium, Epipremnum, Alocasia, and Philodendron. The lines between gardening and home aesthetics continue to blur, creating a harmonious balance.
Ecological Certifications: Celebrating Eco-Friendly Achievements
Home gardeners seek recognition for their ecological efforts, with several organizations offering certifications. These programs acknowledge and celebrate gardens committed to sustainability, reflecting a growing desire for public acknowledgment of environmentally responsible practices.
Pollinator-Friendly Gardens: Buzzing with Life
Gardeners increasingly focus on creating pollinator-friendly spaces, supporting native bees, wasps, moths, and butterflies. Beyond growing pollinator-attracting plants, gardeners construct "bee hotels" and leave perennial stems for overwintering habitats. Pycnanthemum, mountain mint; Eutrochium Joe-pye weed; Liatris, gayfeathers; Echinacea, coneflowers; and Asclepias, milkweeds top the list for a vibrant and pollinator-friendly garden.
Mitigating Climate Change: Gardening for a Sustainable Future
Acknowledging the impact of climate change, gardeners adopt strategies to mitigate its effects. Planting heat- and drought-tolerant native species, selecting drought-resistant varieties, and incorporating waterwise gardening practices have become essential. Gravel, rain, and swale gardens offer sustainable solutions to climate challenges.
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Boxwood Substitutes: Diversifying Evergreen Choices
Concerns over boxwood blight prompt gardeners to explore alternatives. Inkberry holly and blight-resistant boxwood varieties emerge as substitutes, ensuring a diverse and resilient evergreen selection.
Planting More Grasses and Sedges: Ornamental and Ecological Appeal
Grasses and sedges gain popularity for their ornamental and ecological contributions to garden design. Influenced by renowned designers like Piet Oudolf and Claudia West, these plants transcend mere fillers, becoming integral elements in native plant and pollinator gardens.
Hydrangeas: Ever-Popular Blooms
Hydrangeas continue to dominate landscapes and floral arrangements, with new varieties introduced to meet growing demand. Innovations like Bailey Nursery's First Editions Eclipse Hydrangea and Star Roses and Plants' Sweet Starlight Hydrangea showcase the enduring appeal of these timeless blooms.
Tropical Plants: Bringing the Tropics Home
Tropical plants inject vibrancy into gardens, with garden centers offering exciting new varieties. Plants Nouveau introduces fresh elephant ear selections, while bold-foliaged begonias add a touch of the exotic. Transform your garden into a tropical oasis with these trendy additions.
In 2024, gardening transcends mere cultivation, embracing environmental stewardship, sustainability, and a harmonious blend of nature and design. Whether you're a novice or an experienced gardener, these trends inspire you to breathe new life into your green spaces. Explore the evolving world of gardening and contribute to a more sustainable and beautiful future.
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