The 2025 gardening landscape is set for a remarkable transformation, with experts predicting trends that will redefine the way plant lovers approach their craft.
Anthony Musau, a gardening expert and landscaper, and Janmita Patel, a gardening enthusiast and chairperson of the Kenya Horticultural Society-Thika branch, highlight some of the key directions that will shape the gardening world.
Sustainability and environmentally friendly practices
Mr Musau says sustainability and eco-friendly practices are at the forefront as gardeners move toward methods that prioritise the environment.
"The use of native plants adapted to local climates is gaining traction, along with techniques such as xeriscaping and rainwater harvesting to minimise water consumption," he says.
Similarly, synthetic pesticides and fertilisers are being replaced with organic alternatives, while biodiversity-friendly spaces are coming up to support healthy ecosystems.
Ms Patel adds that climate-smart gardening is becoming a major trend. With a growing population, increasing demand for food, urban and industrial development, widespread deforestation and climate change, water availability is a pressing issue. This makes climate resilient gardening an important practice for gardeners.
When planning a climate resilient garden, she recommends focusing on four main areas: selecting appropriate plants and designing the garden, implementing rainwater harvesting and grey water-- waste water from baths, showers, kitchens and laundry areas -- recycling, conserving soil moisture and reducing overall water use.
An effective design for a climate resilient garden includes contemporary dry, gravel and desert gardens. Choosing plants that thrive in diverse and harsh environments is critical to success.
Janmita Patel at her home garden in Thika on October 16, 2024.
Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group
"Drought-tolerant options such as cacti and succulents are ideal and include varieties such as golden barrel, kalanchoe, crassula, aloe, agave, echeveria and arctotis. For shrubs, bougainvillea, salvia, many begonias, agapanthus and gazania are excellent choices. For lawns, 'Maadi River' grass is highly recommended, although Cape Royal and Paspalum are also viable alternatives," she says.
Similarly, rainwater harvesting is a key component of climate-smart gardening. By using gutters and water storage such as tanks or small dams, significant amounts of water can be collected from even light rainfall.
Grey water can be diverted directly to gardens or special pit beds. It is essential to use a grease trap for kitchen waste water to prevent contamination.
Ms Patel notes that it is important to retain soil moisture and limit evaporation. To achieve this, gardeners should avoid bare, sloping areas; where this is unavoidable, terraces with steps or grassed areas should be created. Plant beds and borders should be strategically placed along run-off paths to maximise water infiltration into the soil.
"Indigenous trees such as dombeya, albizia, terminalia and mugumu can provide shade and shelter, helping to conserve moisture. In addition, fast-growing hedges, climbing fences and rows of trees can protect gardens from hot, dry winds and help maintain cooler temperatures," Ms Patel advises.
Minimising water use is also essential for climate-resilient gardening. This can be achieved by limiting the amount of planting and incorporating hardscaping elements such as patterned cobblestones, paved paths, statues, wrought iron artwork or large pots of drought-tolerant plants such as cacti or acacias.
Drip irrigation systems are an excellent solution, delivering small, regular amounts of water directly to the roots of plants, reducing waste.
In addition, mulching with materials such as cardboard, leaves, dried grass, straw or well-rotted compost helps to minimise water loss and enrich the soil.
"By adopting these practices, gardeners can create thriving, sustainable and water-efficient spaces that adapt to the challenges of a changing world," says Ms Patel.
Urban farming
Edible gardening and urban farming are also thriving, with more and more people growing their own food in innovative ways.
Urban gardeners are turning to raised beds, container gardening and vertical gardens to grow vegetables, herbs and fruit. This movement, says Mr Musau, not only increases food security, but also reduces the carbon footprint by promoting locally grown produce.
Indoor and biophilic gardening
Mr Musau notes that indoor and biophilic gardening is on the rise as people prioritise mental wellbeing and seek to get closer to nature.
"Low-maintenance indoor plants such as succulents, ferns and air plants are becoming household staples. Vertical gardens and hydroponic systems are also growing in popularity, especially among urban dwellers who want to incorporate greenery into their living and working spaces," he says.
Gardening for mental health
Gardening for mental health is another major trend, as the therapeutic benefits of engaging with plants are widely recognised.
Variety of potted plants at Janmita Patel’s home garden in Thika on October 16, 2024.
Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group
Horticultural therapy has become increasingly popular, encouraging people to create calm and peaceful garden spaces that promote relaxation and mindfulness.
Technology in gardening
Technology is revolutionising the way gardens are maintained. Smart gardening tools such as automated irrigation systems, plant sensors and app-controlled devices are becoming more accessible.
"These advances help optimise water use, monitor plant health and ensure ideal growing conditions, especially in urban environments," says Musau.
Gardens are also evolving into outdoor living spaces, combining the comfort of indoors with the beauty of the outdoors. People are transforming their gardens into luxurious outdoor rooms, complete with comfortable furniture, fireplaces and outdoor kitchens. These multi-functional spaces are designed for year-round relaxation, dining and socialising.
Wildlife-friendly gardens
Wildlife-friendly gardens are on the rise, with gardeners creating habitats that attract and support local wildlife. Pollinator-friendly plants, bird houses and water sources are being incorporated into gardens to help conserve biodiversity and support vital ecosystems.
Plant diversity, unusual varieties
Mr Musau notes that plant diversity and unusual varieties are becoming a hallmark of modern gardening. Enthusiasts are exploring rare, exotic and endangered plants and celebrating unique colours, textures and shapes.
This trend fosters a deeper appreciation for lesser-known species and encourages the cultivation of diverse flora.