As we enter a new year, our thoughts turn to brighter days ahead, with spring on the horizon promising warmer, lighter, and longer days.
Garden centre Dobbies has shared insights into what’s set to be big in our gardens for 2021.
Horticultural Director at Dobbies Garden Centres, Marcus Eyles said: "There are a number of gardening trends that will continue to grow as we enter 2021, including a focus on sustainability - planting styles that will help encourage pollinators and wildlife to help gardeners become greener. "
Marcus's tips and predictions.
To encourage pollinators, plant simple single flowers, rather than blousy doubles, as this will give them the chance to access the nectar.
Dedicating an area of the garden to wildflowers, even if a small square metre, can have a big impact. Just think of the cumulative effect if even a small portion of those with outdoor space planted wildflowers.
Many of us have had the time to give more attention to our gardens and make the most of any outdoor space. With many more ‘new gardeners’ discovering the joys and benefits that gardening can bring, container planting for compact spaces is a top 2021 trend; offering an alternative way to grow homegrown produce and brighten up spaces with flowers, foliage and colourful pots.
Growing edible plants in the garden combines two passions, gardening, and cooking. From fruit and vegetables to herb gardens, the discovery that you don’t need a huge space and that lots can be grown in a container, means this will continue to trend.
Jungle style gardens are on the rise, with our love of big leaves and lush foliage showing no signs of slowing down. Going tropical, think Banana plants, Cannas and Citrus, and dense planting with pops of bright colour. Whether it is a few statement plants, or a garden filled with exotic greenery, you will be transported to an outdoor oasis.
Other planting styles we predict to be even bigger in 2021 are those that help create a sanctuary of calm, with foliage plants in pots, such as Ferns, Grasses and Bamboo.
Inside the house, statement pieces add a pop of colour to neutral spaces and it’s no different outdoors; cool shades, warm shades or pretty pinks are themes for pots for summer 2021.
As we look to get children excited about the garden and, perhaps, spend more time outside, family gardening is on the rise. This involves splitting up your patch, so children can have a dedicated area to care for; a raised bed can be an ideal solution for this. Get them involved from the beginning by adding personalised signs and finding out what they would like to grow. From sunflowers to carrots, there are plenty of easy-to-grow plants and vegetables.
