The surge in interest and passion for outdoor living spaces and gardening over recent years has not only transformed landscapes but also the lives of individuals. The compelling combination of therapeutic benefits and a closer connection to nature has propelled gardening to the forefront, transcending mere trend to establish itself as a lasting lifestyle choice.
The onset of the pandemic-induced lockdowns in spring and summer of 2020 marked a watershed moment, as a record number of homeowners embraced gardening as an engaging pursuit. The yearning for a profound connection to nature and a therapeutic escape played pivotal roles in this phenomenon, igniting a global gardening revolution. Urban gardening, balcony plantations, and the resurgence of sustainable practices gained traction, fueled by the desire to forge a stronger bond with the natural world.
The lingering question, however, remains: Will this newfound fervor for outdoor living and gardening endure once the current circumstances subside? Industry experts point towards a resounding yes, suggesting that the current trends are poised to leave an indelible mark. Axiom’s research reflects this sentiment, revealing that 47% of respondents plan to augment their gardening endeavors in the forthcoming season, while 40% intend to sustain their planting activities from the previous year. Remarkably, over half of those surveyed highlighted that gardening not only provided physical exercise but also served as an effective stress management tool.
Gardening’s appeal extends beyond temporary diversions, encapsulating a holistic lifestyle transformation. The therapeutic respite and sense of accomplishment derived from nurturing plants offered more than just physical activity – it provided a gateway to nature, significantly enhancing mental well-being.
Delving deeper into the benefits of gardening unveils a rich tapestry of positive impacts. A 2017 meta-analysis published in Preventive Medicine Reports illuminated its potential to reduce depression and anxiety while elevating life satisfaction, quality of life, and a sense of community.
The allure of gardening has paved the way for a natural evolution: the enthusiastic embrace of outdoor living spaces. As gardening enthusiasts invest time and energy in cultivating their green sanctuaries, the extension of this passion to crafting inviting outdoor environments is inevitable. Patios, decks, and cozy corners morph into seamless extensions of the garden, providing spaces for relaxation, entertainment, and the enjoyment of the fruits of labor.
“Gardening has transcended mere activity to become a profound way for individuals to reconnect with nature and curate their own serene outdoor sanctuaries,” states Manami Ogawa, RX Japan Int’l Marketing Specialist at GARDEX Show Management. This sentiment underscores the emergence of platforms such as GARDEX, a haven for gardening and outdoor enthusiasts. These platforms facilitate idea exchange, offer expert guidance, and unveil the latest innovations in the realm of outdoor living.
Set against the backdrop of this gardening revolution and the transformative power of outdoor spaces, events like GARDEX have ascended to prominence. The International Garden and Outdoor Lifestyle Show, GARDEX, stands as a celebration of the symbiosis between gardening and outdoor living. This annual gathering unites gardening enthusiasts, landscape designers, outdoor furniture manufacturers, and more, fostering a dynamic hub of inspiration and knowledge exchange.
Prominent exhibitors at GARDEX include trailblazers like Okano Syukaen, renowned for their ornamental trees and perennial plants, and Green Coco Lim, a vanguard in affordable palm mats for road paving and landscaping. These exhibitors, among others, have played a pivotal role in propelling the momentum behind the gardening and outdoor living movement.
Whether one’s heart lies in gardening, landscaping, or industry participation, GARDEX offers a global platform to unearth the latest trends and source horticultural and outdoor living products. Notably, GARDEX shares the stage with AGRI WEEK TOKYO and TOOL JAPAN, two equally captivating events that encompass the expansive realms of agriculture and cutting-edge tools, creating a synergy that mirrors the interconnectedness of nature and human innovation.