Fencing and Garden Trends 2024

The beginning of spring brings the fantastic opportunity to refresh the style and functionality of your outdoor space.

As flowers bloom, days get longer, and we enjoy the beginning of better weather, we recommend you start planning now to ensure you have a smart and inviting garden for the warmer months ahead.

See what’s trending this year:

1. Going Green with Earth-Friendly Gardens and Sustainable Options

As environmentally conscious living becomes increasingly important in our daily lives, gardeners everywhere are embracing eco-friendly ways to tend their green spaces.

This includes:

• Embracing sustainable and regenerative materials like wood instead of plastic
• Opting for sustainably sourced garden furniture and structures
• Prioritising durability and longevity over disposable style, selecting products that are made to last
• Preferring organic fertilisers and natural methods of pest control over chemical
• Implementing water-saving methods such as drip irrigation and water butts
• Choosing resilient and pollinator-friendly plant varieties. Native planting is also featured.

At G & MB Manning, offering top-quality, environmentally friendly products is a cornerstone. We are FSC certified, assuring the timber we use is fully traceable to sustainably managed sources. Made in the heart of the Wye Valley, our transport footprint remains low, reducing carbon emissions. We also prioritise low waste practices, utilising every part of the timber, and craft products that are made to last, reducing the need for replacements.

Beyond minimising environmental footprint, it is crucial to consider the long-term implications of the choices we make. While it may be convenient to purchase a plastic garden chair, what happens when it breaks in 3 years’ time and you have to throw it away? To help contribute to a greener future, opt for our Carver Chair, made to last with G & MB Manning quality.

2. Wellness Gardens

In today’s fast-paced world, having somewhere to reset your mind and relax your body is essential. The term wellness garden has grown in popularity over the last decade, and with more people working from home, the idea of creating your own personal sanctuary is as appealing as ever. Studies have shown that spending just 2 hours per week in a natural environment significantly boosts health and wellbeing. Furthermore, these benefits can be reaped without doing any exercise – simply sitting and enjoying the natural world can improve your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and encourage mindfulness.

Thankfully, wellness gardens are easy to make yourself! By crafting your own peaceful space, you can tailor it to your garden aesthetic and wellness needs. Seat Arbours are a brilliant addition to your garden to encourage you to sit, relax, and enjoy the fresh air. Made to last with joinery-grade timber, the frame provides an excellent structure for climbing plants like roses, creating a comfortable relaxation spot accompanied by a pleasant aroma.

Additionally, the rising appeal of grow-your-own food represents a fundamental change in gardening attitudes, with keen gardeners and total newcomers opting to try their hand at veg. Raised beds are the ideal choice, providing an elevated, controlled environment where soil quality and drainage can be easily managed, either with raised-bed kits, or railway sleepers. Slatted, wooden compost bin designs can also optimise at-home composting to further boost the grow-your-own ability.

3. Country Style Features and ​‘Wilding’

In 2023, the trend of ​‘wilding’ gardens with edible plants, wildflowers, and regenerative gardening gained momentum, and it’s expected to continue growing. ​‘Wilding’ refers to the practice of allowing gardens to become more natural and untamed, promoting biodiversity and sustainability. Adding whimsical features to your garden, such as our Garway Gate or Omega Lattice Top Panel, can add a beautiful country cottage style and sense of structure that is both charming and inviting, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere of your outdoor space.

4. Wildlife Protection

There are also growing concerns about wildlife protection, with 1 in 3 gardeners making adaptations for wildlife. Hedgehog holes in gravel boards are now a key feature, and we’re proud to offer gravel boards featuring ​“hedgehog highways”.

At G & MB Manning, we take pride not only in enhancing the functionality of outdoor spaces but also in contributing to the conservation of our precious wildlife, recognising the importance of addressing growing concerns about wildlife protection. Hedgehogs traverse about a mile every night across parks and gardens in search of food and a mate. However, enclosed gardens pose a hindrance to their natural movements, posing a threat to the already endangered species.

5. Greek and Mediterranean Style

The Mediterranean style goes hand in hand with al fresco dining. So, if you enjoy hosting, and plan to invite people around a lot this summer, consider incorporating elements of this style to enhance your entertaining. Decking and pergolas can be used to create a designated space that is perfectly accompanied by some comfortable seating, terracotta pots, and vining plants like wisteria or grape vines.

Trellis panels are another great way to zone your garden and create a sense of intimacy and privacy while letting in light and warmth (helping boost serotonin levels too)! Colourful flowers and plants such as ceanothus’ and lavender can further elevate your garden and transform it into the idyllic oasis of your dreams.

6. Slatted Panelling

A newer fencing style that is climbing in popularity is Slatted Panels. If you’re looking to freshen up your garden, consider our Malvern or Marlow Panels for a sleek, contemporary fence with a high quality finish. What sets slatted panels apart is their ability to strike a delicate balance between privacy and openness. The clean lines of slatted panels allow light and air to move through your garden, marking your property boundary clearly (or zoning your garden) without totally obstructing the vista. Our premier panels effortlessly complement a variety of garden styles, making them an ideal choice for those looking to create a stylish and functional border that seamlessly integrates into their overall garden design.

7. Traditional and Timeless

You can always depend on the ever-popular lap panel or closeboard fencing. These traditional, robust fences provide unmatched security whilst looking smart. The longevity and sturdiness of G & MB Manning closeboard fencing make it a brilliant investment for your garden, ensuring that your outdoor space maintains a classic and elegant appeal that never goes out of style. Lap Panels can create a more traditional looking garden whilst adding dimension and character through the 5 vertical batons. Whether you’re marking your property boundary or defining a pathway, these panels offer versatility and charm.

For your next garden project or any landscaping needs, speak to our experts at G & MB Manning. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is committed to making your garden goals a reality. Get in touch today at 01989 563614 or visit our website at https://​gmb​man​ning​.co​.uk/.