1. Get the best of both worlds with edible plants

There’s nothing quite like homegrown fruits and vegetables. From planting your first seeds to serving a meal for your family, it’s a truly wholesome experience.

For an abundant crop, try growing veggies like lettuce, spinach, radishes, carrots, peas, broccoli, beets and cabbage. They’ll be ready by the end of summer if planted early.

Fruits such as strawberries, raspberries and blueberries thrive in warmer weather. And herbs like basil, coriander, parsley, chives, rosemary, thyme and oregano also flourish at this time of year.

Keep in mind that most fruits and vegetables need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. So, choose a sunny spot for those seedlings! And if you’d like a season-long harvest, be sure to stagger your planting times.

 

 

2. Go green with ease

Want to garden more sustainably this year? You’re not alone!

Adopting eco-friendly practices supports biodiversity, reduces waste and prevents soil erosion. And it’s been a hot trend among gardeners in 2025.

Start by embracing native plants like Kangaroo Paw, Bottlebrush, Banksia and Grevillea. These hardy species don’t need much water and fertiliser – and they adapt well to local conditions. You can find most of them at local nurseries and specialty gardening centres.

For water conservation? Consider installing rain gardens and permeable paving.

Rain gardens capture and filter runoff, letting it soak into the ground instead of flowing into stormwater drains. Permeable paving, like permeable concrete or porous asphalt, also absorbs water.

You’ll need to select a spot in your garden where rainwater – and, ideally, sunlight – naturally collects, and choose native plants that tolerate water. Soon enough, you’ll be on your way to creating a beautiful, eco-friendly garden that saves gallons of water each year.

3. Grow up, not out

Apartment living has its perks. But a sprawling garden isn’t usually one of them.

If your home is on the small side and you’re lucky enough to have a balcony or shared space, you can still enjoy a lush, green environment with some clever additions.

Think wall planters, trellises, container gardening and vertical garden panels.

These solutions are perfect for maximising space and bringing greenery into any environment –whether you want to grow herbs, flowers or vegetables.

Wall planters are the best option for growing individual plants, while trellises provide support for climbing plants. Vertical garden panels, on the other hand, can create a stunning, green feature wall in your space.

And if you pick up some hanging baskets and watering containers, you’ll have everything you need to grow trailing plants like strawberries, petunias or herbs.

So, if you’re a city dweller longing for a touch of nature, your dreams are not out of reach.

 

 

4. Use tech to keep your garden perfectly hydrated

Are you a gardening and technology enthusiast? Then smart irrigation systems are perfect for you. These clever systems are changing how we care for our gardens by blending sustainability with simple, smart tech.

Instead of relying on guesswork, smart irrigation systems use Wi-Fi-enabled controllers, soil moisture sensors and weather data to manage and automate your plant watering.

Basically, they tell you when your garden needs a drink.

The best part of this technology? It’s an easy way to reduce waste and water bills.

5. Say goodbye to chemicals

Eco-friendly pest control is quickly becoming the go-to strategy for environmentally conscious gardeners.

Adopting a range of practices allows you to keep your garden healthy and vibrant without compromising the wellbeing of people, pets, wildlife or the ecosystem.

There are many approaches to this, including introducing natural predators or parasites like ladybugs or lacewings, rotating your crops, or using physical barriers like netting and row covers.

You can also create your own organic solutions that rival the effectiveness of harsh chemicals.

Essential oils, such as peppermint or neem, can deter pests. But only use them if you don’t have a furry friend to look after, as they can be toxic to cats and dogs. Other homemade remedies like garlic spray or soapy water offer effective alternatives.

Embracing these methods benefits the environment, improves soil and water quality, enhances plant health – and saves money.

Your garden will be buzzing with life in the best possible way!

 

 

6. Welcome some wildlife

One of the most rewarding trends of 2025? Designing your garden with local wildlife in mind.

Creating a habitat that attracts birds, bees, butterflies and even beneficial insects not only supports biodiversity – it also brings your garden to life. Watching native birds splash in a water bowl or bees pollinate your flowers is a simple joy that never gets old.

You could start by installing insect hotels or nesting boxes to give your garden guests a permanent home. Even a small balcony can become a wildlife haven with the right mix of plants and purpose.

Wildlife-friendly gardening adds beauty, movement and a sense of harmony to your outdoor space – and is just as good for the planet as it is for the soul.

7. Create your outdoor oasis

The only thing better than having a beautiful home is complementing it with a beautiful garden. And it’s not just about the plants!

This year, more and more people are valuing outdoor living and entertaining spaces. After all, soaking up the sunlight on a warm spring afternoon or enjoying mild evenings outdoors can be a natural mood booster.

So, consider incorporating outdoor furniture to create a functional and stylish space. Think a sleek patio, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen or a cosy firepit.

And, if you have the space, a swimming pool is a great investment – for your home and your happiness! It’ll soon transform your humble garden into a paradise.

 

 

Want some more tips and tricks to upgrade your space? Check out the latest home and architectural trends on The Peer Blog for some inspo.