It’s true – Americans want more
than ever to simplify their lives. In today’s economy, time is the new
money: people would rather spend money than time, and according to trend
guru Faith Popcorn, 80% of Americans are looking for ways to simplify their
lives.
This simpler life doesn’t
necessarily mean cutting back, but streamlining instead. For gardeners,
however, simplicity doesn’t mean plain; it means easy, and that translates
into less fuss in terms of design and maintenance, leaving more time and
energy to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the garden.
According to the Garden Media
Group (GMG) (
www.gardenmediagroup.com ), a leading horticultural communication
firm who recently released its gardening trends forecast at the Garden
Writers Association’s Annual Symposium in Chicago, the outlook for lawn and
gardening in 2004 looks simple -- literally.
“We are over-stressed and don’t
want the same pressure in our gardens,” says Susan McCoy, president of GMG.
“There’s a strong demand for low-demand gardening that meets low maintenance
lifestyles.”
Here is what gardening experts say to expect in your
garden this year:
 |
Simple Chic Is
In. Over The Top Is
Out. |
 |
Harmony Is
In. A Riot Of
Color Is Out. |
 |
Mono-Impact Containers Are
In. Mixed Containers Are Out. |
 |
Extending The Planting Season
Is In. Planting Just In Spring Is Out
|
 |
Running Water Is
In. Still Water Is Out. |
 |
Spirited Colors Are
In. Timid Colors Are Out.
|
 |
Green Revolutions Are
In. Chemical Attacks Are Out. |
 |
Technorganic Gardening Is
In. Pest Destruction Is Out.
|
 |
Yard Fun Is
In. Yard Work Is
Out. |
 |
Landscaping Is
In. Bathroom Remodeling Is
Out. |
 |
Decorating Is
In. Random Planting Is
Out. |
 |
Luxury Products Are
In. Commonplace Items Are Out. |
 |
Nature Outside-In Is
In. Separating Space Is Out. |
 |
Planting With Others Is
In. Planting Alone Is Out.
|
 |
Flower Power is
In. Industrial Power is
Out. |