Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to reimagine your yard. Whether you’re planning a complete landscape makeover or a simple upgrade, this season’s top outdoor trends are all about sustainability, comfort, and creativity. At Planted Earth, we’re seeing homeowners invest in outdoor living spaces that blend beauty, functionality, and environmental responsibility. Here are 9 backyard trends we’re loving (and installing) this summer:
1. Sustainable Landscaping
(photo credit: Anice Hoachlander)
Eco-conscious design is more than a trend—it’s the future of landscaping. Homeowners are embracing native plants, low-maintenance greenery, and efficient irrigation. Rainwater harvesting systems are gaining popularity, allowing gardens to thrive with minimal environmental impact. Sustainable landscaping not only reduces water usage but also supports long-term garden health.
2. Outdoor Kitchens and Dining Spaces
Alfresco dining has become a must-have for backyard living. From full-scale outdoor kitchens with built-in grills and sinks to cozy dining areas under a pergola, these spaces create the perfect setting for summer gatherings. Functional and stylish, they extend your living space and make entertaining effortless.
3. Fire Pits and Fireplaces
A fire feature can instantly elevate the ambiance of any backyard. Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces offer warmth, light, and a natural gathering point for friends and family. Whether you prefer a rustic wood-burning setup or a sleek gas-powered design, adding a fire element extends your outdoor season well beyond summer.
4. Outdoor Lighting
Lighting is no longer an afterthought—it’s a design feature in its own right. Layered lighting plans, including uplighting/downlighting, path lighting, and accent lighting enhance safety and highlight your landscape’s best features.
5. Water Feature
Photo credit (Thomas Walker Photography)
Nothing says summer serenity like the sound of flowing water. Backyard water features—such as fountains, ponds, or small cascading waterfalls—are growing in popularity for their calming effect and natural beauty. Whether it’s a sleek, modern fountain or a rustic stone pond surrounded by native plants, water features create a soothing focal point and attract birds and pollinators.
6. Outdoor Tech Features
(Photo credit: Coastal Source)
Tech is moving outdoors—literally. From waterproof speakers and weatherproof TVs to smart irrigation and lighting systems, outdoor tech enhances convenience and entertainment. We’re seeing an increase in homeowners looking to create smart backyards where they can relax, entertain, and even work remotely.
7. Wildlife-Friendly Gardens
Creating a backyard sanctuary isn’t just good for you—it’s good for nature. More homeowners are planting pollinator-friendly flowers, building butterfly gardens, and designing spaces that support local biodiversity. These gardens attract bees, birds, and butterflies while also helping the ecosystem thrive.
8. Edible Gardens
Why not grow what you eat? Edible gardens that include herbs, vegetables, and fruit trees are on the rise. Not only do they promote sustainability, but they also provide fresh, organic produce right at your doorstep. Raised garden beds, vertical planters, and attractive garden borders make edible gardens both practical and beautiful.
9. Green Roofs and Living Walls
Green roofs—also known as living roofs—are one of the most exciting trends in sustainable landscaping. These eco-friendly features involve covering rooftops with vegetation, transforming flat surfaces into lush, living spaces. Green roofs are ideal for urban spaces, backyard offices, pergolas, and more. Whether you want to go all-out with a rooftop garden or simply green the top of a shed, this is a creative way to make your backyard even more eco-conscious. Living walls are also trending—vertical plant installations that provide insulation, natural beauty, and improved air quality. These lush features are a great way to bring nature into tight or urban spaces.
Ready to Transform Your Backyard?
Whether you want to go green with a sustainable garden or create the ultimate outdoor entertainment zone, our team is here to help. From design to installation and ongoing maintenance, we bring your vision to life—beautifully and sustainably.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning your dream backyard.
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