Nature’s renaissance

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There’s a burgeoning movement to re-integrate natural elements into life, landscapes and cities, and the green industry’s entire supply chain is poised to lead the charge. “Nature’s Renaissance” is the unifying theme of Garden Media Group’s 2025 Garden Trends Report, which emphasizes how this movement has spurred the decline of major social media platforms and the increasing consumer preference for in-person community interactions. This movement will help horticulture become integrated into people’s lives more holistically.

“This renaissance isn’t merely an aesthetic appeal — though more plants are certainly better — it’s about a growing recognition of the vital need for green spaces everywhere,” says Katie Dubow, president of Garden Media. “Cities are increasingly adopting strategies that weave nature holistically into our daily existence.”

We’ve sampled pieces of the report here. Discover what resonates with your mission and your customers.

Social retreat

People are seeking spaces to connect over shared passions and interests without the noise and distractions of mainstream social media. Enter niche social communities. These platforms cater to specific interests and foster tightly knit communities that are not just engaging but enriching. Some 60% of people under 30 express a preference for these smaller, more focused communities over vast, impersonal networks. Some of these social communities include Nextdoor, Goodreads, Strava and Greg.

Lived-in gardens

This movement is a delightful shift from the pristine and untouched toward a more genuine, seasoned aesthetic. According to the research, homebuyers prioritize sophisticated design, with a strong preference for mature plantings and trees, which alone can increase property values significantly — from $1,000 to $10,000 per tree.

By embracing the lived-in garden trend, you are not just creating a beautiful space but investing in a landscape that grows more valuable with time, both financially and as a sanctuary for life.

For a garden design that mirrors this trend, let roses and vines climb and extend to unexpected areas. Plant densely for a full, established look. Layer plants by mixing tall shrubs or trees with medium-sized perennials and groundcovers to add depth and complexity. Don’t get rid of plants that are not perfect — trim and maintain to show their established growth.

Grow your own way

There’s been renewed interest in live music in the post-pandemic environment. Call it “funflation” or “revenge spend” — fans pay big dollars to attend live music events.

Live Nation reported a 21% YOY increase in revenue for Q1 2024.

While the garden is no stranger to music, it’s becoming more popular. From concerts in public gardens to Spotify playlists for plants, music is a cherished addition to the experience of growing. Some 81% of gardeners enjoy tunes while tending to their plants, with pop being the most popular genre. And there’s no shortage of research that suggests plants themselves also “enjoy” music. Plant-centric social influencers like Darryl Cheng, Summer Rayne Oakes and Black Men With Gardens have curated botanical-themed playlists.

Foraged

The rise of boutique flower farms highlights a budding interest in local, fresh flowers. This surge in popularity reflects a broader shift: people are not just growing flowers; they are becoming amateur foragers seeking to transform the natural bounty of their surroundings into stunning floral designs. Flower foraging is a personal connection with nature. It involves exploring the garden, fields and woodlands to find plants, flowers and branches that can be creatively assembled into arrangements.

When foraging away from home, know the environment, wildlife and poisonous plants; only forage with permission; know the laws; collect plants that are not endangered, rare or invasive; and only take what you need.

Holy moly

Searches for Monstera have skyrocketed by 600% on Google Trends, and terms like “biophilia” dominate the conversation in interior design. Plants with fenestrations are statement pieces that bring a dramatic flair to the home and office. As they mature, their fenestrations become more pronounced, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and making them prized possessions in the plant community.

This trend underscores a shift toward a more “lived-in” look, where the beauty of mature and fenestrated plants is celebrated.

Color of the year

With a bold, synthetic quality, teal bridges the realms of fantasy and reality, evoking the serene blues of Caribbean waters, the expansive freedom of vast skies and the immersive depth of virtual spaces.

It aligns with evolving wellness trends, offering a calming effect that is as sophisticated as it is soothing. Whether applied sparingly or used as a bold statement piece, this color complements a modern palette that includes shades of blue, green, brown, orange and gold, making it a versatile choice for any setting.

There’s more to this color than its aesthetic appeal. It also evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia for the vibrant and carefree spirit of the 1990s and early 2000s (including the Frutiger Aero aesthetic), a time of bold fashion and optimistic energy.