What are the garden trends of 2026?

Our gardens are getting a lot of love now that the weather is picking up, so if you haven’t already it’s time to get to work so they’re ready for enjoying the sunshine.

Rather than going in blind and simply tidying up, now is the time to check out the garden trends for the year, so you can ensure your landscaping is in style.

Whether you have a large garden space, a small patio or just a balcony, there are plenty of ways you can embrace the garden trends for 2026.

We spoke to the experts to get the lowdown on the garden trends, and how best to utilise them in your outdoor space.

1. Sustainability and green gardening

Just like in all elements of our homes, and as was the case in 2025 – sustainability is a huge gardening trend for 2026.

Not only in the way we use our gardens, but how we renovate them, too. Sarah Rumbles, Brand & PR Manager at Crane Garden Buildings, agrees: “Sustainability continues to be a major driver, particularly in the materials people are choosing.

“There’s a growing appreciation for well-made timber, not just because it sits naturally within the garden, but because it’s durable, repairable and built to last. We’re seeing more customers actively choosing quality over quick fixes, which in turn influences the furniture and planting around it.”

Bo Hellberg, CMO at Grythyttan Stålmöbler, Swedish outdoor furniture specialists adds: “The use of natural wood, oak, pine or teak, oiled or untreated, brings warmth and character to spaces, while steel adds a modern edge, offering durability and a sleek aesthetic that complements the contemporary design.

“This combination not only enhances the visual appeal but also aligns with eco-conscious living, allowing designers and homeowners to create spaces that feel authentic and grounded.”

This in turn ties in with gardens being a space for our wellbeing – it’s not just about what looks good in a space, but what makes you feel good, too.

“Homeowners are no longer focused solely on what looks good; they care about how a space makes them feel, how it supports their daily life, and how it aligns with their values, from sustainability to wellness and longevity.”

Photo: Crane Garden Buildings

2. Wildlife friendly gardens

As with sustainability, making sure our gardens are a place for wildlife is a big part of the modern garden.

Where birdfeeders and bird baths have always been commonplace in localised gardens, we’re now going one step further to make sure there are safe habitats for local wildlife. It’s important to ensure insects, hedgehogs, birdlife and other animals have a safe space in our gardens.

David Nicholson, UK and ROW Sales Manager at elho advises: “Biodiversity is no longer an optional extra – it’s becoming an essential part of our outdoor spaces. With wildlife under pressure, people are creating safe habitats for bees, birds and beneficial insects, even in the smallest of areas. The goal is to provide reliable places for nature to rest, nest and feed, rather than relying on planting alone to support local ecosystems.

“Thoughtfully designed habitats make it simple to bring wildlife home. Birdhouses, feeders, and insect hotels crafted with insulation, ventilation, and moisture control keep wildlife safe and comfortable year-round. Even a few well-placed habitats can turn a small balcony, garden or patio into a welcoming stop for wildlife, blending style with function.”

3. Tech integrated gardens and smart gardening

Smart technology is dripping into every element of interior design, so it was only a matter of time before it bled into the outdoor design, too.

Gardens are wonderful, but do create a lot of work, and can be time consuming – especially if you want them to look good! As a result, smart gardening tools are seeing a huge growth in demand, according to new research from Redrow.

Searches for smart sprinklers have increased by 36.54% year on year, while searches for smart lawn mowers are up 18.95%. Interest peaks in key gardening months, with smart sprinklers spiking in spring by 86%, and mowers by 40% in the same season. In summer this accelerates even further, with increased of 123% and 189% – so the demand is certainly there.

Photo: Adobe Stock

4. Gardens as an extension of our homes

When it comes to garden styling, pergolas, awnings and garden rooms are coming up trumps for 2026.

With recent data proving that the biggest value adding addition to our homes is by making our outside spaces more accessible all year round, anything we can do to make this possible is trending.

Pergolas and awnings in particular can help with this, and if you have the space and budget – garden rooms and outdoor kitchens can also ensure we’re using our gardens in all weathers. Therefore, becoming an extension of the home and creating more space – particularly beneficial for smaller homes.

Photo: Blinds2Go

• Adelaide Slate Pergola, £1,599.96 from Blinds2Go – buy here

An additional room

Simon Parry, TrexPro composite deck installer and director of Simon Parry Gardening & Landscaping adds: “People are seeing their gardens as an additional ’room’ in the home. Homeowners are using their gardens to host family and friends, creating spaces that function as additional living rooms, dining areas and outdoor kitchens.

“To blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, we’re using colours and styles that complement the homeowner’s inside space, creating a seamless ‘flow’ from inside to out. We’re incorporating covered seating and decking areas for use in all weathers.”

Naomi Bentley, Director at Charles Bentley advises: “Fire pits and chimineas are becoming staples rather than seasonal extras, reflecting how people want to use their gardens from early spring through to autumn.

“Multi-functional designs, such as compact bistro sets for smaller spaces or versatile dining options, are particularly in demand as gardens continue to serve multiple purposes.”

“Creating a simple setup with a dining table and a barbecue nearby makes it easy to enjoy meals outside, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering. Combined with a fire pit or chiminea, these elements create a cosy, functional, and inviting space that encourages you to spend more time outdoors.”

5. Wellness gardens

As already mentioned, in 2026 our gardens are spaces to make us feel good, as well as look good. We’re making more conscious choices on the materials, plants and functions we use within our gardens. As a result of this, they’re becoming a wellness hub.

Sarah Rumbles, Brand & PR Manager at Crane Garden Buildings adds: “Whether it’s a quiet place to read, exercise or simply step away from the main house, people are placing more value on having somewhere that feels calm and separate, but still close to home.”

This somewhat overlaps with gardens becoming an extension of a main house, but can come in the form of a home gym in the garden, or even just a small sanctuary outdoors where you can sit and think or get lost in a book.

Many homeowners are going one step further though, with data from the British Sauna Society suggesting the searches for ‘outdoor sauna’ rising by 73% year on year. Finnmark sauna is seeing that demand translate into garden designs, with garden spas becoming a reality for many.

Sauna designer Erin Hickman explains: “A wellness garden needs to work on a practical level, if it isn’t easy to use – it won’t be. Layout, shelter and the connectedness of the space come into play.

“Features such as saunas, outdoor showers and cold plunge pools work best when they are integrated into the layout.

“Implementing these features will give you a reason to use your outside spaces, even in the colder months – changing how the garden is used. A sauna can be used in winter, in the evening, or when the weather isn’t ideal.”

Find out more about creating a home spa in your garden at finnmarksauna.com.

What were the garden trends in 2025?

From ideas on seating and layout to planting and design advice, these are the trending ideas you need to know about.

1. Garden trends 2025: Curve appeal

Curved furniture is popular in the home so it makes sense that it would be trendy in the garden as well.

Curves make a space more welcoming and open, and for an open garden welcoming guests, that’s exactly the vibe you would be after.

Lena Gierasinska, Head of Product and Displays at Barker and Stonehouse explains: “Curved outdoor furniture is increasingly popular for 2025 because it echoes the natural flow and rhythm of the natural world.

“Curved furniture softens spaces and creates a more harmonious relationship between man-made objects and their environment.

“Nature rarely deals in straight lines – think of the sweep of a hillside, the bend of a tree branch, or the meander of a garden path.

“Curved furniture mirrors these organic forms, helping pieces to blend more seamlessly into their surroundings.

“Not only do curves evoke a sense of calm and comfort, but they also invite movement and conversation, making garden spaces feel more welcoming and less rigid.

“It’s a subtle yet powerful design choice that connects us more closely to the natural world.”

Shelley Cochrane, Accessories Buyer at Furniture Village agrees: “Curved furniture has become very popular in interiors and we’re now seeing this trend influence outdoor living as curved garden furniture is in demand.

“Curved silhouettes feel relaxed and informal which aligns perfectly with the growing desire to create outdoor spaces that feel like extensions of indoor living – calm, cosy, and personal.”

Photo: Barker and Stonehouse

• Castello Hanging Garden Chair With Base, £299 – buy here

 2. Garden trends 2025: Mediterranean themed gardens

The Med has a lot going for it. Beautiful weather most of the year, gorgeous sandy beaches, a world-renowned diet, and apparently great garden design to boot!

Just like the relaxing mood and diet of the Med, the gardens embrace a similar spirit.

Olivia Moores Buyer at Hillier Garden Centres explains: “The Mediterranean look embraces a relaxed, sun-drenched spirit with pieces that feel both effortless and full of character.

“It’s that combination of natural wood, soft cushions and intricate ceramic details that instantly transports you – perfect for gathering with friends, unwinding in the shade, or simply soaking up the warmth.

“With touches like fringed parasols and patterned tile accents, it’s a style that brings the charm of southern Europe to even the smallest garden space.” 

Photo: Daals

• Gabriel pink and white fringed parasol, £89.99 – buy here

3. Garden trends 2025: Outdoor kitchens

This is a trend that has been around for a while, but 2025 is going to make it massive.

Cooking outside has long outgrown the classic Sunday BBQ: a couple of sausages being flipped and a stack of buns.

Outdoor dining in 2025 encompasses pizza oven, specialist cooking facilities to prevent having to carry everything out from the house, and specially designed dining areas that are suitable for entertaining a large number of guests.

Steve Esdaile, founder of EO outdoor kitchens elaborates: “More and more people want to make the most of their outdoor spaces, and an outdoor kitchen brings the heart of the home outside.

“It’s about more than just cooking; it’s about connection, entertaining and enjoying your garden all year round.

“The great thing is, it doesn’t have to be a huge setup. You don’t need acres of space or a massive budget.

“Just like your indoor kitchen, you can design it to suit you – your garden, your lifestyle and how you love to spend your time.

“Whether it’s a sleek built-in BBQ with plenty of prep space or a cosy corner with a wood-fired oven, the key is making it functional and personal.

“It’s about creating a space that invites people in, sparks conversation and adds real value to your home life. And let’s be honest – everything tastes better cooked outside.”

Find out more about the outdoor kitchen trend and how to design your own in our guide.

Photo: EO Outdoor Kitchens

• EO Outdoor Kitchens start from £25,000 – browse their designs here

4. Garden trends 2025: Japanese style gardens

Japanese style spaces are a big garden trend for 2025. All about balance, simplicity and natural beauty, they promote thoughtful placement and minimalism within gardens.

James Kendall, Operations Director, KES Lighting recommends using lantern style lights, ground lights and under-lit trees and shrubs.

Lanterns provide a soft, diffused glow that mimics the moonlight, and when positioned near pathways or water features, this can enhance your garden’s serenity.

Recessed ground lights are also a great option for a Japanese Garden.

Lower level lighting installed in the ground can illuminate stepping stones, which then creates a floating effect and guides movement through the garden without disrupting the natural aesthetic.

Under lit trees and shrubs are also recommend as the soft lighting on the trees highlights branches and structure, adding depth to the space.

Serving a purpose

There’s more to creating a Japanese themed garden than lighting though.

Everything in the garden should serve a purpose, think low profile seating, built in storage and adaptable garden furniture.

Also consider the materials the furniture is made from: wood, bamboo and stone will bring warmth and authenticity to your garden, and soft beige, muted greys and earthy browns with soothe the outdoor space.

A connection to nature is also a staple in a Japanese garden. Consider bonsai trees, potted greenery, possibly cherry blossom if you can get it.

You could also consider outdoor rugs, screens and natural wooden decking to further create the look.

Pathways and stepping stones are key features of a Japanese-style garden

5. Garden trends 2025: Edible and sensory planting

Growing herbs, fruits and vegetables in our gardens is becoming more popular than ever.

Rather than just growing pretty plants and flowers, it’s becoming more popular to grow useful things.

Olly Cavner, Operations Director at Essential Living explains: “Gardens in 2025 are becoming more experiential, with a focus on edible and sensory planting.

“We’re seeing a rise in residents growing herbs like rosemary and thyme, alongside tactile and fragrant plants such as lavender and ornamental grasses.

“It’s all about creating outdoor spaces that nourish both body and mind.”

Edible garden landscaping blends beauty with function, and edible planting doesn’t mean your garden won’t still be beautiful. Maximise on your space and enjoy garden to table freshness.

This trend is practical, healthy and stunning on every level.

Herb gardens are great for creating beautiful yet functional outdoor spaces

6. Garden trends 2025: Blending the indoors and outdoors

As already mentioned, the blending of indoors and outdoors is growing in popularity. With the rise of outdoor kitchens, flooring and rugs – our gardens are becoming an extension of our homes.

Lena Gierasinska, Head of Product and Displays at Barker and Stonehouse explains: “As boundaries between indoor and outdoor living are becoming increasingly blurred, garden furniture now mirrors interior design aesthetics, with pieces like wicker and rattan furniture adding warmth and texture to outdoor spaces.

“This creates cohesive environments that extend the comfort and style of the home into the garden.”

The key is to strike a balance between style, comfort, and durability. Stylish garden furniture often mirrors interior trends and as consumers increasingly see their garden as an extension of their interiors, this has never been more true.

“Natural textures like teak and rattan, soft curves, and calming, earthy tones are all set to be popular in 2025.

“For practical reasons, prioritize weather-resistant materials. Low maintenance materials are essential.

“Cushions should be made with quick-drying, UV-resistant fabrics, and frames need to withstand the elements without compromising on aesthetic appeal.”

“The blurring of boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces means that furniture shapes, colourways and materials once restricted to indoor living are now appearing outdoors.

“Think tiled coffee tables or faux marble drinks tables – these eye-catching designs infuse the garden with colour, personality and a sense of luxury so that they feel like a true extension of your interiors.”

Photo: Bramblecrest

• Kingscote Cloud Rattan Corner Sofa with Square Firepit Table & 2 Benches, £3,249 from Bramblecrest – buy here

7. Garden trends 2025: Sustainability

As with all elements of our lives, the sustainability of our gardens is a growing concern, and as a result more eco friendly ways to use our gardens are trending.

Gareth Mitchell, gardening expert and founder of Tree2myDoor elaborates: “Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint when it comes to gardening and making homemade compost is a great way to do this.

“By making your own compost from household waste, you can reduce the amount sent to landfill as well as improving the mineral content of your soil.

“Better quality soil will promote better growth and help plants fight off disease and insect attacks, reducing the need to use harsh chemicals which further benefits the environment.

“Simply add raw fruit and vegetable scraps and peel, coffee grounds, plastic free tea bags and eggshells to your compost bin, add brown materials (dry leaves, shredded paper or  cardboard) and mix the contents to aerate it.

“You will know your compost is ready to use in your garden when it is a dark and crumbly consistency after around three months.”

Going beyond materials

Leigh Barnes, Gardening Expert at Jacksons Fencing agrees believes a sustainable garden goes beyond materials: “Sustainability goes beyond materials in 2025, with wildlife-friendly fences becoming the norm.

Designs that allow wildlife to flourish are gaining popularity, encouraging biodiversity by providing safe passage for animals and insects while supporting the health of local ecosystems.

“As climate resilience becomes more crucial, the demand for eco-friendly materials is stronger than ever.

“Durable, sustainable fencing options are leading the charge, ensuring that garden spaces not only look beautiful but are also built to last, with minimal environmental impact.

From the aforementioned edible gardens, to drought-tolerant landscaping, our outdoor spaces are becoming more multipurpose than ever.

Jose Escalante, Gardening Expert at Roofing Craftsmen adds: “One rising trend is the use of green roofs and living walls, even on sheds or patio roofs.

“These provide insulation, biodiversity, and a striking aesthetic. Native plants are also making a strong comeback, as they require less maintenance and support local ecosystems.

“Some might assume low-maintenance means low-impact visually, but today’s innovations prove otherwise. With the right planning, you can create gardens that are lush, eco-friendly, and stunning year-round.

“If you’re planning a garden refresh in 2025, prioritize water efficiency, pollinator-friendly plants, and versatile layouts that double as social spaces or quiet retreats. You don’t need a large plot to have a big impact.”

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