With warmer weather on the horizon and the clocks going forward on Sunday 27th giving us all an extra hour of daylight, the next few weeks are the perfect time to get your garden ready for Spring.
comparethemarket.com has teamed up with MyJobQuote’s gardening expert Samantha Jones to reveal the top trends for 2022 and how to incorporate them into your outdoor space. From the traditional potting table to plants that help wellbeing and accessories sure to turn heads, the trends to watch out for this spring/summer are revealed.
Sustainability, wildlife and wellness
In 2022, sustainability is at the forefront of Brits’ minds as they look to make eco-conscious purchases, including peat-free compost, native plants, and wildflowers. More biodiverse gardens will be planted to attract bees and other insects. For gardening enthusiasts looking to make space for wildlife, natural rather than ornamental ponds will be the preferred water feature.
Themes of self-care and wellness will influence garden planting with more unusual herbs, such as myrtle and hyssop and medicinal perennials, such as echinacea and calendula.
Tulip, primrose, and pansy sales are trending
Searches for tulip sales have seen a significant increase in the last 12 months (+80%), which isn’t a surprise given that you can find the flowers in a range of colours, providing an easy pop of colour in any garden.
Pansies (+67%) are proving to be another popular choice with their bright colours and distinctive look. Another planting trend this year are primroses (62%) which bloom in early spring. They are extremely versatile and will thrive when planted in garden beds and borders, as well as in containers.
Mediterranean features and dedicated potting areas
Garden features with a Mediterranean feel will be top of consumers’ shopping lists this year, from Moroccan tiled troughs to Greek urns, classical statues and a host of exotic plants and grasses.
The traditional potting table is also having a resurgence. Gardeners are looking to the simple pleasures of sowing, cutting and tending to plants. A dedicated area with an organised table will prove popular.
Perfecting your gardens with flowers, plants and accessories doesn’t come cheap, so your prized possessions should be protected.
Top security tips on keeping your space safe:
1. Keep your back gate locked
If you’re outside in the summer months, it can be tempting to unlock your gate so you can access the street easier – but make sure you lock it when you go inside, to stop potential burglars from accessing your garden.
2. Get rid of any climbable items
Wheelie bins perched by a fence and ladders left lying around are both key ways burglars can access your garden. Make sure you leave them somewhere where they can’t be used.
3. Consider insuring your garden, but always check the cover first
Knowing your favourite flowers and plants are insured will give you peace of mind. Some providers offer cover for loss or damage of certain plants, shrubs, trees, and lawns. However, loss or damage caused by other factors such as pets, birds, insects, and natural causes, including storms and floods, often isn’t covered. There’s usually a total monetary limit for the amount of cover you’ll get, so always double-check the provider offers the cover you require and what the limit is.
Alex Hasty, director at comparethemarket.com, concludes: “As we approach the warmer months, there’s no doubt we’ll be looking to spend more money perfecting our gardens with new flowers and plants, which can run up costs of hundreds of pounds.
“Homeowners and renters might not be aware that their home contents insurance could cover their garden too and should check their policy to make sure they have the right level of cover in case an issue arises. Some insurance providers offer cover for the loss or damage of certain plants and shrubs. It’s best to check your T&Cs as there can be a total monetary limit on each policy. Loss or damage caused by pets, insects and natural causes, including storms and floods, are not often covered.”