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Top 10 Landscaping and Hardscaping Trends for 2023
1. Embracing Native Plants
Gardening with native species is more than a trend—it’s a growing movement. Native plants require less water and care compared to non-natives because they are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. They also provide essential food and habitat for native wildlife, fostering a healthy and balanced ecosystem in your own backyard.
2. The Rise of Edible Gardens
Edible gardens are becoming a staple in landscape design, merging aesthetic appeal with practicality. Homeowners are enjoying the harvest from their own land, with gardens full of vegetables, fruits, and herbs. These gardens encourage a connection with nature and promote a sustainable lifestyle, offering fresh produce free from the concerns of supply chain disruptions.
3. Outdoor Living Spaces
The line between indoor and outdoor living continues to blur as more people invest in outdoor living spaces. These areas become extensions of the home, featuring fully-equipped kitchens, cozy fire pits, and weather-resistant furniture. They’re designed for relaxation and entertainment, allowing families and friends to gather and make memories in the great outdoors.
4. Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is key in modern landscaping. Eco-friendly options like solar-powered lighting, organic mulches, and composting systems are seeing a surge in popularity. Rainwater harvesting systems conserve water and reduce utility bills, and the use of local, sustainable materials minimizes the carbon footprint of landscaping projects.
5. Pollinator-Friendly Gardens
Creating gardens that attract and support pollinators is a trend that’s vital for the environment. By planting species that provide nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, gardeners are contributing to the health of local ecosystems. These spaces are not only functional but also beautiful, often bursting with color and life.
6. Incorporating Water Features 
Water features add a tranquil and luxurious element to outdoor spaces. Whether it’s a small, bubbling fountain or a large, reflective pond, water features create a sense of peace and can serve as a focal point in garden design. They also offer an auditory experience that complements the visual beauty of a well-designed landscape.
7. Smart Irrigation Systems
Technology has made its way into landscaping with smart irrigation systems that conserve water and make garden maintenance easier. These systems can adjust watering schedules based on real-time weather conditions and soil moisture levels, ensuring plants receive the optimal amount of water without waste.
8. Low-Maintenance Landscaping
Low-maintenance landscaping is favored by those looking to enjoy their outdoor spaces without the constant upkeep. This trend includes the use of drought-resistant plants, mulches that retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, and hardscaping that reduces the expanse of lawns that require regular mowing and watering.
9. Textured Paving
Texture is becoming an important aspect of hardscape design. Textured paving solutions, such as stamped concrete, provide aesthetic appeal and are also functional, offering better traction and reducing water runoff. Permeable paving is another aspect of this trend, allowing for proper drainage and reducing the impact on municipal sewer systems during heavy rains.
10. Vertical Gardening
Vertical gardening is a creative solution for space constraints and is becoming increasingly popular in urban settings. These living walls bring a slice of nature to small patios and balconies and are being used to grow everything from ornamental plants to herbs and vegetables. They are not only space-savers but also act as natural air filters and insulation for buildings.