The Top 4 Landscape Design Trends of Fall 2019

The National Association of Landscape Professionals anticipates an uptick in textured plantings, jewel tones, cozy outdoor living styles and lush lawns this season

FAIRFAX, Va. (August 29, 2019) – The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) announces its official list of the top lawn and landscape trends of fall 2019. Fall welcomes endless opportunities for homeowners to enjoy their outdoor spaces. NALP trends help forecast elements of design and maintenance that influence how Americans will spend their time outside this fall.

“Move over mums and classic orange and yellow color schemes. This fall we expect to see a challenge to classic fall plantings with an increasing number of textured plantings and jewel toned hues debuting in backyards across America. These newer participants complimenting traditional mainstays of autumn will be joined by comfortable outdoor living styles and quests for lush lawns this season,” says Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the National Association of Landscape Professionals. “As homeowners look to extend their time outdoors, they are considering how simple lawn care fundamentals and landscape design can make an immediate impact on their yard heading into fall.”

In fall 2019, NALP predicts the following four trends will influence outdoor spaces around the country:

1. Rich, Textured Plantings – Fall provides the opportunity to refresh garden beds and container gardens. Before relying on the comfort of traditional mums, experts recommend consideration of ornamental kales, cabbage and peppers, as well as snapdragons, pansies and grasses to add rich color and texture. Homeowners should also consider texture while interiorscaping, the art of purposefully planting indoor greenery. Succulents can add life to a garden bed or apartment terrace during the warmer months and add a trendy, textured green vibe during the fall and winter months.  

2. Pops of Jewel Tones – Classic fall colors like red, yellow and orange will seek competition from crisp and sophisticated jewel tones this season. Sapphire blue, emerald green, amethyst purple, ruby red and citrine yellow all bring warmth to fall landscape design. Experts recommend adding pops of jewel tones to outdoor living spaces with unique container gardens, decorative furnishings and accessories, eye-catching sculptures and seasonal plantings such as pansies, celosia, dianthus and black-eyed Susan.

3. Cozy, Comfortable Outdoor Living – After enjoying sweet summertime, fall allows homeowners to transition their landscapes and utilize features that are not always top-of-mind during warmer months. Fire features continue to rise in popularity. From one-touch natural gas or propane ignition to traditional wood-burning fire features, homeowners can heat up chilly fall nights with ease and ambience. This year, pergolas gained popularity and we will see their lifespan continue in the cooler month with the help of retractable canopies and heating systems. Signature features, like fire features and pergolas, complimented by comfortable seating and attractive and aromatic plantings and jewel tones will bring resort like comfort to homes across the country.

4. Healthy, Lush Lawns – Americans love their lawns. A recent national survey conducted by Engine’s CARAVAN Omnibus on behalf of NALP found 77 percent of Americans report relaxing in their yards at least once a month. Well-maintained lawns support the well-being of neighborhoods and allow communities to connect, play, celebrate and unwind. Fall is one of the most critical seasons for preparing lawns and landscapes for year-round health. By working with a professional on essential fall lawn care needs homeowners will see a plethora of benefits come spring.

The voice of the landscape industry, NALP develops its trends reports based on the expertise of professionals from around the United States supporting Americans’ growing passion for evolving the tried-and-true elements of landscapes: well-maintained lawns, outdoor living spaces, fire features and more. The landscape trends are also influenced by broader lifestyle and design trends.

Fall is often the forgotten season for yard care, but it is one of the most critical seasons for lawns and landscapes. Homeowners should work with a professional to think beyond raking leaves and properly prepare their yard for the winter months.

For more fall landscape and lawn care inspiration or to find a local, qualified landscape professional, visit LoveYourLandscape.org.

About NALP

The National Association of Landscape Professionals represents an industry that employs nearly 1 million landscape, lawn care, irrigation and tree care professionals who create and maintain healthy green spaces for the benefit of society and the environment.

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