A big trend for gardeners is in blending traditional formal plantings with native plants. For instance, it’s becoming popular to mix Boxwood groupings with Prairie Dropseed or other native grasses. This combination provides contrasting color and texture while creating a low-maintenance landscape.
Additionally, there has been a noticeable rise in requests for ‘old-fashioned’ plants such as Common Lilac, Magnolia, and Peonies. These plants often evoke fond memories of relatives and add a nostalgic touch to gardens.
Fire features continue to be a favorite for outdoor spaces. More people are looking for portable fire tables or fire pits instead of traditional mortared stone or brick installations. These portable options offer flexibility, allowing families to adapt their outdoor spaces as their needs evolve over time.
With the increase in rainfall in the area, there will be a growing need for creative drainage solutions and plants that can thrive in wet soils. Switchgrass is an excellent choice for these conditions, as it can tolerate both dry and wet soils and grow well in full sun to part shade. It’s a versatile and aesthetically pleasing plant.
Pergolas have always been a popular landscape feature, but we are seeing a shift towards cast aluminum pergolas. These new pergolas often come with louvered tops to control sunlight and rain, as well as options for drop-down privacy screens and heaters, making them a more versatile addition to outdoor spaces.
The integration of home technology into outdoor landscapes is becoming increasingly popular. Features like landscape lighting, irrigation systems, outdoor audio systems, and even grills can now be operated via apps on smartphones, adding convenience and control to outdoor living.
However, amidst all this tech, plants remain wonderfully tech-free. They provide a natural balance and tranquility, countering the technological noise around us. This juxtaposition of technology and nature creates harmonious and functional outdoor spaces.
Selecting and installing plants that are durable, low maintenance, and offer multiple seasons of interest, whether through flower color, leaf texture, fall color, or winter structure. By combining the right plants, you can create landscapes that are both beautiful and resilient. For patios, walkways, and driveways, use materials known for their durability and ability to withstand our local weather conditions.
Your Trusted Resource for Real Estate
@properties shares my commitment to offering the most comprehensive and professional marketing, sophisticated technology, and expert market knowledge, supporting the highest standards of service and representation you expect and deserve. With local leadership and national and international reach, I bring results to clients wherever their buying and selling goals take them. I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.
I appreciate and welcome your inquiry, real estate need, or referral!
