THE weather is still shining – and there’s plenty of time to get out in the garden before summer is over.
And as Scots embrace this year’s growing season, a gardening expert has revealed the top 10 trends to get your green fingers on for the rest of 2025.
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Hayden Salt, garden centre manager at Jacksons Nurseries, has highlighted worm poo and home-grown veggies among his best picks.
From eco-conscious solutions to mental well-being in green spaces, here’s what to watch for this year.
WRIGGLE OUT OF IT
Natural soil enrichment is going to take the gardening world by storm, with worm cast compost leading the way. Worms eat and digest the organic matter resulting in waste that’s packed with beneficial bacteria.
Hayden said: “It’s a fantastic way to boost soil health and fertility organically.
“Worm casts are rich in nutrients and great for improving compost structure.”
RAIN DRAIN
With climate change and the more extreme hot and dry spells affecting gardens, hardy drought tolerant perennials are essential.
Hayden suggested: “Think agastache, echinops and sedum, and shrubs like lavender and buddleia.
“These plants thrive in tough conditions and support biodiversity.”
WATER IDEA
Water butts and guttering systems are becoming must-haves in UK gardens.
The expert says: “Conserving water is crucial as dry spells become more common.
“Get yourself a rain capture system, which will reduce reliance on mains water – especially useful if a water ban comes into place.”
BUZZING
Hayden says gardening with bees in mind is a growing movement.
He added: “Pollinators are vital and planting echinacea, rosemary and other nectar-rich flowers provide a crucial food source for bees and their young.”
GROW YOUR OWN
Homegrown food is a strong trend – even for the tiniest of gardens.
“A balcony can support herbs and vegetables,” said Hayden.
“You can use containers and planting bags if you don’t have a huge space – it’s good for your health, wallet and the environment.”
WILD THING
Letting parts of the garden go wild helps create vital ecosystems.
“Even a small untamed patch provides a little oasis for the local population of pollinating insects, birds and small mammals,” said the Jacksons Nurseries expert.
GO ECO
Biopesticides and natural fungicides are replacing chemical treatments.
Hayden said: “Biopesticides are generally made up of microorganisms and plant extracts which are far kinder to the environment and less harmful to bees and pollinating insects.”
Look for new eco-friendly options at garden centres this year.
CHILL OUT
Creating a chilled-out space in the corner of your garden is a huge trend.
The gardening guru says: “Water features, sculptures and soft planting can create calming spaces that benefit mental health.
“It doesn’t need to be a huge spot and you can even create this in small gardens and on balconies.”
GO POTTY
Ideal for patios and balconies, containers are key to bringing greenery to smaller spaces.
Hayden said: “They give everyone the opportunity to add life to their outdoor space – whatever the size.
“Think bedding plants, perennials, shrubs and small trees. You can even grow your own fruit, veg and herbs.”
HOME IMPROVEMENT
The love for indoor plants shows no sign of slowing.
The plant pro said: “They improve air quality and wellbeing. Expect to see even more exotic varieties in homes this year.”
