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Horti-futurism: The Emerging Sci-Fi-Inspired Garden Trend

What is horti-futurism?

Horti-futurism is the latest emerging trend in the world of gardening and outdoor spaces. This fresh approach blends traditional horticulture with a futuristic aesthetic, creating a unique and captivating visual experience. Inspired by the rise in popularity of science fiction in recent years, horti-futurism aims to translate the otherworldly aesthetics of sci-fi into our everyday lives.

At the core of horti-futurism is the desire to merge traditional gardening practices with modern advancements, such as artificial intelligence, automation, and sustainable gardening techniques. This trend offers a forward-thinking and eco-conscious approach to creating beautiful outdoor spaces that not only look striking but also prioritize sustainable and efficient practices.

“The latest trend of horti-futurism is all about channelling the ‘otherworldly’ and injecting some sci-fi inspiration into outdoor spaces,” remarks Holly Daulby, Managing Director of Honest Communications. Blending traditional horticulture with a futuristic aesthetic, it involves embracing bold colours, innovative plant choices, and modern design elements to create a space that looks and feels like it’s just stepped out of a sci-fi movie or TV show.

“It also aims to merge traditional gardening practices with modern advancements, such as artificial intelligence, automation, and sustainable gardening techniques,” outlines Raby Castle’s Head Gardener, Tim Marshall. “And in a world that’s becoming increasingly tech-savvy and eco-conscious, horti-futurism ticks all the right boxes,” Holly admits.

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5 ways to add horti-futurism to your own garden

Get Colourful

Incorporating bright, bold colours is a key element of the horti-futurism aesthetic. “Incorporating bright colours into your garden is key to achieving a horti-futurism look,” says Josh Novell, Director of Polhill. “Think neon hues, metallic tones, and silver or iridescent foliage.”

Mark Lane, garden designer and presenter, recommends “giving your summer-bedding a touch of va-va-voom with brightly-coloured and variegated coleus plants.” He also suggests introducing “white – and silver – coloured flowering plants, such as Stachys byzantina or Artemisia ludoviciana ‘Valerie Finnis,'” to add a touch of otherworldly elegance to your outdoor space.

Incorporate Technology

Horti-futurism embraces the fusion of nature and technology, allowing you to experiment with various features that can enhance the functionality and sustainability of your garden. “While gardening is normally about nature, this trend allows you to experiment with technology as well,” Josh asserts. “Implement features such as LED lighting, automated watering systems, or vertical gardens with hydroponics for a tech-savvy feel.”

Utilise Reflective Surfaces and Neon

Introduce reflective surfaces, such as water features like reflecting pools, ponds, or mirror basins, to create an illusion of blurred reality and add depth to your garden design. “Introducing water in the guise of reflecting pools, ponds or mirror basins, so that you can look down and still see the moon and the stars, will blur reality with reflection,” Mark proffers.

Additionally, embrace the trend of neon, which is set to be a major player in outdoor spaces this year. “You can go literal by adding neon garden lighting ideas or you can introduce neon with neon planters, furniture or neon-hued plants,” to add a futuristic and eye-catching element to your outdoor space.

Go Geometric

To achieve the modern, futuristic look associated with horti-futurism, focus on incorporating geometric designs into your garden. “Opt for geometric shapes in your hardscaping, furniture, and plant layouts if you want to go down the horti-futurism path,” Josh suggests. “Clean lines and symmetrical patterns give a modern, futuristic effect.”

Lucie Bradley, Greenhouse and Gardening Expert at Two Wests & Elliott, concurs, advising to “consider a geometric layout with defined spaces and pathways.” She also recommends “don’t forget to create zones for relaxation and entertainment with modern outdoor furniture.”

Use Sustainable Materials and Methods

Embracing sustainability is a core principle of the horti-futurism trend. “Incorporate eco-friendly materials, such as recycled or repurposed items, to add a touch of futuristic flair while also promoting environmentally-conscious practices,” Josh explains. “Combine the futuristic design with sustainable techniques, like rainwater harvesting or composting, to truly embody the horti-futuristic approach.”

Natural elements and materials like glass can also be used to create a nice contrast in textures, further enhancing the horti-futuristic aesthetic.

Which plants work best for horti-futurism?

When it comes to selecting plants that complement the horti-futuristic aesthetic, experts recommend seeking out varieties with unique shapes, textures, or growth habits that evoke a sense of the otherworldly. Vibrant hues, such as orange, fuchsia, and red, as well as dark pinks and purples, are particularly well-suited for this trend.

“Crocosmia masonorum is a great choice,” according to Josh. “Picture fiery orange blooms emerging from architectural foliage, resembling alien flora in your borders or pots.” Mark Lane also highlights plants “that look like they’ve come straight from a TV set or have names associated with films,” such as “Darth Vader” coleus, “Asteroid” daylily, and “Lunar Eclipse” hosta.

Additionally, “air plants, bromeliads, and spiky succulents can add an otherworldly touch,” Josh adds. For those looking to bring the horti-futuristic vibe indoors, “succulents and closed terrariums that create self-sustaining ecosystems” can be excellent options, says Holly Daulby.

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FAQs:

What is Horti futurism?

What is hortifuturism?

Hortifuturism is all about channelling the ‘otherworldly’ and injecting some sci-fi inspiration into outdoor spaces. Blending traditional horticulture with a futuristic aesthetic, it involves embracing bold colours, innovative plant choices, and modern design elements to create a space that looks and feels like it’s just stepped out of a sci-fi movie or TV show.