The National Association of Landscape Professionals has released its forecasted landscape trends for 2018. These five trends are based on a survey of NALP’s members and drawn from the expertise of landscape professionals representing various regions of the U.S. Keep reading to see what the landscape trends of 2018 are!
1. Experimental landscape design.
Today’s landscapes are innovatively designed to serve various purposes. Landscapes feature designated areas for cooking, dining, relaxing and even working outdoors. In both residential and commercial landscapes, NALP says the experience begins at the entrance of a property. Visitors and home owners feel welcomed by creative design elements, plantings, and and eye-catching lawn.
2. Climate-cognizant landscaping.
The NALP notes that with unpredictable weather patterns comes the need for landscape enhancements that can withstand extreme conditions and allow spaces to be enjoyed throughout the year. Hardier landscape materials will make plant survival possible even in the most extreme weather conditions, hot or cold. Living in San Diego, we’ve got those hot summers and need to be cognizant of the amount of water usage.
3. Emphasis on water management and conservation.
Sustainability in landscaping is more than a trend; it influences how landscapes are created and maintained. The integration of eco-friendly watering practices will continue taking off this year. This includes the use of plants native to a region, smarter irrigation technology and Xeriscaping. Xeriscaping is a type of landscape designed to use low-water plants.
4. Enhanced equipment and technology.
The latest yard tools on the market consider ease of use and storage while incorporating more ecofriendly innovations. Many lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and similar equipment feature low or no emissions, are battery-powered, and are quieter. Who doesn’t want more of that? Professionals are also integrating more technology— mobile apps, 3D modeling and drones—into landscape planning.
5. Plants in playful colors and patterns.
In 2018, we will see a renewed interest in adding pops of color and whimsy to landscapes. Influenced by Pantone and their “Color of the Year,” ultra violet, the NALP predicts a shift away from the simplicity of greenery. Landscape professionals expect to integrate more violets, verbena, clematis, iris and other purple flowers into landscapes. “Patterned” plants are also getting their time in the garden spotlight, as these unique plants have intricate details, such as striped leaves or brightly colored veins.
“The top 2018 landscape trends reflect an evolution of the outdoor living trend we’ve seen grow in popularity over the past few years,” vice president of public affairs for the NALP, Missy Henrickson, says.“Stimulated by a healthy economy, homeowners and property managers are innovating their landscapes in fun, new ways. Recognizing the tremendous value that beautiful and functional landscapes bring to homes and commercial properties, today’s landscapes are built to last so they can be used and enjoyed through all the seasons, year after year.”
Find that you are in need in any or all of the above at your property? Contact us today and we can make your vision come to life!