What can we expect from 2024?
As we conclude an eventful year for the industry, in which we saw a great many challenges, and equally great strides that propelled the sector further into the spotlight, we wanted to take a moment to consider what the next year could have in store for us.
Here are a few of the industry’s predictions for the year ahead.
The rising cost of living
Garden Designer, Martyn Wilson of Wilson Associates Garden Design
“There will continue to be a nervousness among middle income clientele around living costs and the economy with a constrained market and lower levels of enquiries for garden design.
“High net worth clientele will continue to invest but are delaying or phasing elements of their projects.
“In a slower housing market we see increasing signs of clients investing in limited interventions to existing gardens and property rather than moving.
“The proposed implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain in 2024 will not only be beneficial for our depleted natural environment but may also create opportunities for sections of the industry.”
Working with nature
Charlotte Cole, horticulturist and 2023 Pro Landscaper 30 Under 30 winner
“With the increasing need to garden sustainably, 2024 could well see the continuation of a growing trend to allow nature and gardens to interact and blend with one another, with concepts such as green roofs, use of natural materials, and the intermingling of weeds, ornamentals, and edibles, being brought to the forefront.
“Right now, there’s even a movement to free plants from the confines of their planting borders to thrive amongst pathways, patios, and brickwork.
“Perhaps we are realising we needn’t be so picky about the plants we allow into our green spaces.
“I hope that 2024 will see our industry continue to challenge the notion of being overly selective, and choose to work with nature, not against it.”
Seeking greener solutions
Rupert Keys from TASK Academy
“I think next year we’ll see lots of nature-inspired gardens with customers increasingly looking for greener solutions.
Sustainable landscaping products are becoming much more mainstream, so cement-free, low carbon, and recycled materials, plus rainwater harvesting, are all now featuring on customers’ wish lists.”
Similar to the predictions we shared last year, there is a shared consensus that gardening and landscaping with nature in mind will continue on its upward trajectory.
We have already seen a significant push in sustainable solutions, from the rewilding movement that picked up momentum this year, to the initial discussions surrounding Biodiversity Net Gain- could this just be the start of a greener industry?
What are your industry predictions for 2024?