There are many spring magazines and articles that talk about landscaping trends. But there is one thing I have really learned in 30 years of landscaping and gardening: if your property is working for you, it will make you happy, and that is the key.

There is more and more research that says that just spending time outside can up your happiness quotient in a big way. The feeling of well-being you get from fresh air and green space is hard to beat. So, when you go outside, or even look outside, your surroundings should lift up your mood.

This will mean different things for different people. Do you look around and see a harmonious, natural flow? For you, does that mean paths and stairs that work well, walls that are beautiful and durable? Is there a deck or patio, lawn or maybe a fire pit, where you can look forward to sit to relax outside with friends or family members? It can be as simple as a great hammock between a couple of trees at your cabin in the woods, or as full as your imagination wants it to be.

How about colour? Does a riot of ongoing exuberance float your boat? Make it happen! Or lower key shrubs and perennials…?

The most important trend of all is what you want and what makes your outdoor experience fuller – and yes, happier. Enjoy your space; make it yours! (You can find a good landscaper to help you, of course.) What you do now will just get better over time.

The other most important trend? Carpe diem in the happiness department. It’s your time!

By the same author: Channeling your inner Kindergartener (Click the image below)