10 Landscaping Design Trends to Look Out for This Spring
Tropical Native Landscaping
Sarasota homeowners are leaning into plants that thrive in Florida’s heat and humidity and support the local ecosystem—like coontie, firebush, and saw palmetto. Native plants mean less watering, fewer pesticides, and a lush, authentic Florida vibe.
Coastal Outdoor Living Spaces
Sarasota prides itself on the coastal atmosphere and beach-side living. Incorporate this aspect of Sarasota into your own outdoor space.
Think breezy lanais, pergolas with climbing bougainvillea, and outdoor kitchens for coastal dinners. With mild spring temps, outdoor living is a must—and it's becoming more stylish and functional than ever. These spaces are also perfect for entertaining guests and community members.
Butterfly & Pollinator Gardens
Pollinator-friendly landscaping is huge, especially in Southwest Florida where homeowners are planting milkweed for monarchs, pentas for hummingbirds, and porterweed for bees.
Incorporating pollinator gardens into your outdoor space supports biodiversity and encourages soil health. They can even attract other healthy insects and critters–a fun and educational addition to any outdoor space.
Sustainable Shell & Stone Ground Cover
Grass is out, shell and gravel are in. Many homeowners are replacing water-thirsty lawns with crushed shell, white rock, or native groundcovers to save water and reduce maintenance.
Additionally, artificial turf can also reduce maintenance and ensure your yard is always looking pristine. This can also be a smart choice for pet owners and parents, as artificial turf keeps both pets and kids mess-free.
Curved Pathways & Organic Layouts
Sarasota landscapes are getting softer and more natural—winding shell paths, curved garden beds, and a more relaxed coastal layout that mirrors the Gulf's natural rhythm.
Consider stone or gravel pathways lined with ambient lighting for clarity and safety after the sun sets.
Vertical Plant Walls for Privacy & Greenery
Beautiful landscaping isn’t just for sprawling outdoor spaces. For tight lots or smaller homes, vertical gardens using palms, bamboo screens, or climbing jasmine provide privacy, greenery, and fragrance all in one. Strategic landscape can make any area appear more lush and flourishing, no matter the size.
Bold, Tropical Color Schemes
Match your yard with Sarasota’s tropical and vibrant atmosphere. Color is back in Sarasota yards—especially hot pink hibiscus, orange birds of paradise, and deep red crotons. These bold pops are perfect for creating a lush tropical look.
Consider marigolds, snapdragons, african violets, or coral honeysuckles–all bright, vibrant plants (pet-friendly, too).
Edible Gardening in Raised Beds
Create a yard for more than just aesthetics. From pineapples and papayas to basil and rosemary, edible plants are being worked right into backyard designs this Spring. Raised beds and container gardens are a favorite for easy harvesting. Consider even creating a designated space for these plants to flourish.
Smart Irrigation Systems
With spring rains on the horizon, homeowners are using Wi-Fi-controlled sprinkler systems that monitor weather and soil moisture, reducing water waste and keeping plants healthy. Irrigation with sensors can also ensure your yard isn’t overwatered–an eco-conscious option as well.
Drip irrigation is also a smart option. This irrigation system provides water directly onto the roots of the plants, ensuring your garden flourishes with precision and accuracy. Irrigation systems can make all the difference in maintaining a flourishing yard in the Spring.