The weather challenges of 2023 and the ever-growing awareness of environmental issues and climate change are impacting gardens and gardening styles for 2024. We look at some key trends to expect this coming year…
Low water usage gardens
As scientists confirm that 2023 was the hottest year on record, last year the UK experienced searing heatwaves and water shortages for prolonged periods. Looking to the future, gardeners are seeking to mitigate these issues by selecting drought resistant plants and creating landscapes that reduce or eliminate the need for irrigation. A key element will be introducing shade into gardens – constructing a pergola creates a shady canopy over a seating area or walkway. This expands usable living space and can be used to grow a wide range of climbing plants.
Grow your own
The RHS gardening advice service and website continues to see growth in “grow your own”. People are finding satisfaction in growing their own food, with the most popular plants being tomatoes, followed by cucumbers, courgettes, chillies and runner beans. Sleepers are ideal for creating raised vegetable beds that are more accessible and have excellent drainage.
Sustainable and eco-friendly fencing
As we have all become more environmentally conscious, it’s no surprise that eco-friendly fencing is a growing trend. In 2024, we will likely be seeing greater use of sustainable UK produced timber fencing, as well as fences made from eco-friendly materials such as bamboo and recycled plastic.
Outdoor living spaces
Whether it’s a private, public or community garden, an open air living space plays a vital role in allowing us to enjoy the great outdoors. With environmentally conscious construction and pollinator attracting planting, open seating/dining areas allow us to spend precious time surrounded by nature.
Going wild with traditional cottage style gardens
2024 is set to continue the trend for cottage style gardens as we seek wilder, less manicured looks that embrace planting for wildlife habitat and reduce the need for constant maintenance. Mixing edibles and ornamentals in a way that benefits nature and biodiversity. Cleft rail or palisade timber fencing are ideal partners to this style of gardening, providing structure and ageing in a way that complements the planting.
Textured materials and warm tones
Garden material selections have been shifting for some time, with textured surfaces becoming increasingly popular. From characterful timber, textured renders to riven paved stones, through terracotta or ceramic tiles, we are looking at including pattern, contrast and depth into our gardens. We are also seeing a trend to embrace warm shades and heritage materials, such as timber, stone and brick that create a sense of familiarity and warmth and create a serene atmosphere.
Planet-friendly gardening
The trend for wildlife gardening is continuing to grow according to the RHS. Natural ponds are increasingly popular due to the wildlife and planting opportunities they provide, although they need be carefully considered and correctly sited in light of climate change and issues with water shortages and usage. Water collection methods such as rainwater tanks and water butts are becoming a higher priority, as are environmentally friendly cultivation practices like mulching, abandoning the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers, and choosing pollinator friendly plants that require less water. Gardeners are also keen to source sustainable materials and reduce single-use plastics as we move forward. This increased environmental consciousness alongside an interest in getting out and enjoying the natural world looks set to continue over the coming years.
Timber for gardens in West Sussex and surrounding areas
PRO Fencing is a Member of the Association of Fencing Industries and works throughout the South East for landscape architects, homeowners, building contractors, housing developers and commercial/public sector clients. If you would like to discuss fencing and gate options simply call 01252 726391 or email: [email protected]
For beautiful solid oak pergolas or garden furniture contact our sister company, WL West Timber, on 01798 861611 or email: [email protected]
WL West & Sons Ltd is a timber merchant and sawmill business with 150 years of experience. We provide a wide range of air-dried oak and kiln-dried oak timber products and supplies. We also build and install custom projects for our customers.
Our wood products, building materials and certified wood are manufactured and sold with the endorsement of forest certification and the Forest Stewardship Council FSC
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