From creating shade gardens to mixing in darker foliage, these trends will elevate your outdoor space.

In other instances, homeowners are laying down gravel instead.

Richardson notes that gravel gardens are low-maintenance and sustainable, as they require little water or other maintenance.

gravel garden in backyard

Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture

Dark Foliage and Flowers

Move over, bright blooms!

“The beauty of dining by candlelight outside in the summer cannot be more magical or transformative.”

These gardens can be used both for growing vegetables and practicing yoga, he notes.

classic english garden

Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture

He will also mix annuals andperennialswithin one pot display.

English likes to place his clustered pot displays in several spots.

She recommends pairing together ferns, coleus, begonias, and tradescantia zebrina for an eye-catching display.

eclipse hydrangea

Tracy Walsh forFirst Editions Shrubs & Trees

When in Bloom NYC.

outdoor dining setup in backyard

Joanna Buchanan

cluster of flower pots

Drew English

shade garden

When in Bloom NYC.