If the past few years have taught us anything about our gardens, it’s that they’re more than just outdoor spaces. They’re an extension of our homes, a reflection of our personalities, and increasingly, a sanctuary for both people and wildlife. In 2025, the UK’s biggest garden design trend is embracing all of this in a single philosophy: Maximalist Planting.
What is Maximalist Planting?
Maximalist planting is about creating lush, layered, and expressive gardens that burst with colour, texture, and life. Instead of minimalist borders or tidy lawns, this trend encourages gardeners to go bold:
Mix flowering perennials with evergreens.
Blend textures—soft grasses with structured shrubs.
Layer planting heights for depth and drama.
Use vibrant colours to make an impact year-round.
The effect? A garden that feels immersive and alive, one that changes with the seasons but never feels empty.
Why is it Trending in 2025?
Several factors are pushing UK gardeners toward this fuller, more expressive style:
Sustainability: Dense, diverse planting supports pollinators, birds, and other wildlife, creating gardens that contribute to local biodiversity.
Climate Adaptation: Mixed planting schemes provide resilience, with different species thriving in different weather conditions.
Wellbeing: Bold, colourful gardens provide a mood boost and a sense of escape—perfect for busy lives.
Design Freedom: Unlike rigid, manicured lawns, maximalist planting allows gardeners to express personality and create truly unique spaces.
How to Bring the Look Home
The great news is that you don’t need a huge garden to embrace this trend. Here are some practical steps:
Think Layers: Combine tall structural plants (like alliums or delphiniums) with medium-height shrubs and ground covers.
Go Bold with Colour: Don’t be afraid to pair purples, pinks, and oranges for an eclectic palette.
Mix Textures: Feathered grasses soften architectural foliage like phormiums or hostas.
Embrace the Wild: Let some plants self-seed—controlled chaos adds authenticity.
Year-Round Interest: Combine evergreen backdrops with seasonal blooms so the garden always feels alive.
A Garden Trend with Staying Power
Maximalist planting isn’t just a flash-in-the-pan style. It reflects wider cultural shifts: sustainability, individuality, and a renewed love for the outdoors. For UK gardeners in 2025, it’s not about taming nature, but celebrating it in full colour.