Top 5 Gardening Trends To Watch In 2025

Gardening continues to be a beloved hobby, with new trends emerging each year. Whether for physical activity, aesthetics, or connecting with nature, gardens provide multiple benefits, including access to fresh food and a boost to mental and physical health. Experts predict these trends will dominate outdoor spaces in 2025.

1. Vertical Gardening

Vertical gardening is becoming a go-to option for those with limited space. It allows plants to grow upwards, making it ideal for small areas like balconies or walls. This trend is perfect for homes with little yard space and areas where water conservation is important.

Andrew Bunting, vice president of horticulture at the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, explains that vertical gardening systems are evolving and becoming more accessible. Some are designed for ornamental plants on walls, while others are specifically made for growing vegetables. Many of these systems use hydroponics and water recycling to reduce waste. Additionally, some vertical garden systems have built-in lighting, making it possible to grow plants without natural sunlight.

2. Edible Gardens

With grocery prices on the rise, more people are growing their own food. According to the National Gardening Association, 43% of Americans are now growing some of their own food at home, a 17-year high. This trend is expected to continue as more people seek ways to cut costs.

Tess Kuracina, director of living collections at the New York Botanical Garden, notes a growing interest in heirloom varieties of plants. These varieties, often unavailable at big-box stores, offer unique flavors and are perfect for gardeners who want to grow something special. Many of these heirloom plants are also ornamental, making them both beautiful and edible.

3. Waterwise Gardening

As climate change causes more frequent droughts and floods, gardeners are focusing on resilient plants that can thrive in harsh conditions. Waterwise gardening is a response to these extreme weather patterns, with more gardeners choosing plants that can handle dry spells or heavy rainfall.

Kuracina suggests planting Mediterranean herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary, which are known for their drought tolerance. Native ornamental grasses like switchgrass and little bluestem are also excellent choices for dry areas. In flood-prone regions, trees like red maples and river birches are ideal for handling wet conditions.

4. Lived-In Gardens

People are moving away from perfect, manicured gardens and embracing a more authentic, natural look. The “lived-in” garden trend focuses on creating spaces that feel comfortable and mature, with varied textures and plants that tell a story.

Katie Dubow, president of Garden Media Group, explains that people want gardens that reflect the passage of time. For those looking to achieve this aesthetic quickly, Dubow recommends fast-growing plants like hydrangeas, milkweed, and Encore® azaleas. These plants offer an instant sense of maturity and charm.

5. Gardening for Self-Care

Gardening is not just about the plants—it’s also about the gardener. Studies have shown that gardening can improve mental and physical health, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being. As more people recognize these benefits, gardening is becoming a form of self-care, with even younger generations getting involved.

Bunting advises beginners to seek out local gardening communities for support and learning. Many municipalities offer garden clubs or horticulture societies, providing opportunities for newcomers to connect with experienced gardeners.

As gardening trends evolve in 2025, these innovative ideas reflect the growing importance of sustainability, self-care, and the beauty of nature. Whether you’re looking to save space, grow your own food, or simply enjoy the outdoors, these trends offer fresh inspiration for your garden.