Trends in Gardening - South Africa in 2015

As the new year starts, we all think of doing something new in our gardens... but often don't know where to start. While fashions may come and go, there are many inspiring, perennial ideas out there to get you going.

One of the most important gardening trends I noticed all through 2014 was the incorporation of edible gardens in designs - either within existing bedding - amongst the ornamental plants, or in separate raised beds. This trend is set to continue into the future, as we choose to grow more and buy less of our food.

Below are some very simple, but effective ideas for raised beds, courtesy of Doug Hall on the website: http://www.organicgardening.com/learn-and-grow/five-raised-beds. 

Visit this great website for more info and inspiration.

Cinderblock Retainers

Sandbag Retainers

Woven Willow Retainers

Planks and Rebar Retainers

Photo credits (above): Paterick Montero

Stained Wood Retainers

Photo credit (above): Victoria Skoglund - from the website:
http://www.gardenista.com/posts/top-10-garden-design-trends-of-2015


And if space is constrained, consider something like this Tiered Plank garden below, found on the website, http://www.mastergardenproducts.com/rooftopraisedbed.htm

Tiered Plank Retainers - Small Spaces

Photo credit (above): mastergardenproducts.com