Women Shining Magazine Women Shining Spring 2018 | Page 48

2018 Spring Trends Gardening Not Clothing T he planting, colour and design trends that you can expect to see this year.... top of the list - grow your own! Veganism is one of the fastest growing lifestyle movements, with many people choosing a plant- based diet. The rising food prices and a growing appreciation of organic produce have fueled interest in grow your own. If you’re serious about becoming more self- sufficient, a greenhouse can increase your yield of beautifully fresh fruit and veggies all year round. If space isn’t on your side, legumes (runner beans, broad beans, French beans and peas), squashes and pumpkins are a great option as they make use of vertical space. Salad leaves, herbs and tomatoes grow well in boxes on balconies and patios and cost a fraction of the supermarket price too. Alfresco living - embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle! Are you one of the many people who love to spend as much time out of doors when the weather permits? Then... Outdoor entertaining and kitchen areas will be a key trend for Spring/Summer 2018 This type of dining is perfect for those of us who lack space - move entertaining friends and family outside. Be creative in designing your special area with comfy furniture. lighting, perhaps even a sunken fire pit, barbecue or pizza oven. The nation is, with sales of garden furniture, barbecues and garden accessories, expected to grow by 3% to 4% annually up to 2021. Japanese influence - accepting natural growth ‘Wabi-sabi’ - a balance of nature and nurture, less hands on, so a form of less work. Overgrown perennials, moss-covered stones, rusty iron gates and weathered pots are suddenly bang on-trend. 46