Embracing Change: How the Green Industry is Wise to Adapt to Upcoming Trends

The trends in landscape and garden care have evolved significantly since 2020. And with that is the need for green industry businesses to evolve as well. 

We can look back and see a clear shift in how people view and interact with their homes as a result of the Covid pandemic. As people spent weeks locked down in their homes, they began to invest more resources into home improvement and garden projects. 

Now that we’re “out of the woods” and living in a post-pandemic economy, many of these priorities have remained and the future of the green industry is being shaped by it. 

1. Increased Time and Investment in Home Care

Since 2020, people have spent more time at home, paving the way for more investment in the upkeep of their living spaces. 

The pandemic forced many to re-evaluate their surroundings, leading to a heightened appreciation for well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing environments. As a result, homeowners have become more proactive in enhancing their curb appeal and creating outdoor spaces that provide comfort and relaxation.

As the housing market has endured ups and downs over the years, the fact remains that sellers and buyers alike care about curb appeal. Sellers aim to maximize their home’s appeal to attract buyers, while buyers are keen on personalizing their new spaces to suit their tastes and needs. This trend has spurred a boom in landscaping and garden improvements, with homeowners seeking to create attractive and functional outdoor areas – frequently calling on professionals for help. 

2. Labor Market Challenges

While the demand for professional landscaping and design has increased, the labor market has presented challenges when it comes to finding and retaining good employees. The shortage of skilled labor has driven some homeowners to take on more DIY projects – as there are long wait times for professional help. 

DIY homeowners seek ways to maintain and enhance their gardens without relying heavily on professional services. We’ve seen increased demand for more user-friendly gardening tools and resources that empower homeowners to manage their landscapes effectively.

To address labor shortages, landscaping companies have also started to adopt new ways of doing things, such as offering virtual consultations and providing online tutorials to guide homeowners through their projects. 

These approaches not only help mitigate the labor challenges but also foster a sense of community and knowledge-sharing among gardening enthusiasts. 

3. Environmentally Conscious Choices

Environmental concerns increasingly influence home landscaping decisions. Homeowners are prioritizing sustainable practices that benefit both their gardens and the environment. 

Here are four key environmentally conscious trends that are gaining traction:

• Native Plant Usage: There is a growing emphasis on using native plants that are ideal for local ecosystems. These plants require less water, pesticides, and maintenance, making them a sustainable choice for home gardens. Native plants also support local biodiversity, providing habitats for native wildlife.
• Pollinator-Friendly Gardens: Creating landscapes that support pollinators is becoming increasingly popular. These gardens are designed with a variety of flowering plants that provide nectar and pollen throughout the year, contributing to the health of essential bee and butterfly populations, and benefiting the broader ecosystem.
• Water Conservation: Drought-tolerant landscaping, rain gardens, and efficient irrigation systems are being implemented to reduce water usage. Homeowners are adopting practices such as mulching, using rain barrels, and installing drip irrigation systems to conserve water while maintaining lush and vibrant gardens.
• Soil Health: Improving soil health through composting and organic soil amendments is a trend on the rise. These practices enhance soil fertility, structure, and moisture retention, promoting healthy plant growth and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Landscape businesses are wise to stay ahead of trends like these to be able to offer and accommodate client requests and ideas. 

4. Technological Advancements

While homeowners are finding new balance and restoring ecosystems, they’re also leveraging technology in some really interesting ways. Smart technology and automation are making it easier to create and maintain beautiful gardens with minimal effort. 

Here are three ways: 

• Smart Irrigation Systems: The use of smart irrigation controllers and sensors that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions has increased efficiency and reduced water waste. These systems ensure that plants receive the right amount of water at the right time, promoting healthy growth while conserving resources.
• Landscape Design Software: Advanced design software and apps are enabling more detailed and creative landscape planning and visualization. Homeowners can use these tools to experiment with different layouts, plant selections, and features before making any physical changes. This technology helps in achieving a cohesive and well-thought-out design that meets both aesthetic and functional goals.
• Robotic Technology: The introduction of robotic mowers and other automated tools is streamlining maintenance tasks and increasing efficiency. Robotic mowers, for instance, can autonomously trim the lawn, freeing up homeowners’ time and ensuring a consistently well-kept appearance. These technologies reduce the physical effort required for garden maintenance, making it accessible to a broader range of people.

The nuts and bolts of home and garden care is continuously evolving, driven by changes in lifestyle, market dynamics, environmental concerns, and technology. Homeowners are investing in their properties now more than ever, seeking to create beautiful, sustainable, and functional outdoor spaces. 

As landscape businesses adapt to the demands of customers, we’re excited to serve as a resource and partner to ensure your business is ready to accommodate new products and services.

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