Maximalist gardens are our new favourite outdoor trend

If quiet, perfectly trimmed gardens once ruled the roost, a bolder, more expressive outdoor style has now taken centre stage. Maximalist gardens are the fresh, feel-good trend turning patios, stoeps and backyards into vibrant, layered, personality-filled spaces – and we are absolutely here for it.

At its heart, maximalism is about abundance rather than restraint. It encourages mixing textures, embracing colour, and celebrating growth in all its glorious forms. Instead of aiming for neat symmetry, this style leans into visual richness, playful contrasts and a lived-in charm that feels welcoming rather than staged.

One of the most appealing aspects of this trend is how adaptable it is. Whether you garden in a compact townhouse courtyard in Joburg or a sprawling plot in the Cape Winelands, maximalism can work for you. It’s less about the size of your space and more about how you use it.

Layering is a key ingredient. Think tall aloes or bird of paradise plants standing proudly behind lower beds of salvias, pelargoniums and agapanthus. Mixing heights instantly adds depth and drama, making even a modest patch feel dynamic and lush. Colour also plays a starring role. Instead of sticking to one palette, maximalist gardens invite you to experiment. Sunny yellows, fiery oranges, soft pinks and deep purples can sit side by side, creating a cheerful, almost celebratory atmosphere that changes beautifully with the seasons.

For those with limited ground space, containers are your best friend. A cluster of different pots – ceramic, terracotta or woven baskets – filled with herbs, succulents and flowering plants can create an eye-catching display. The bonus? You can rearrange them whenever you feel like a refresh.

Pexels

There’s also room for a wilder, more natural look. Letting creepers trail over walls, allowing shrubs to grow a little fuller, or encouraging indigenous climbers up a pergola can bring a romantic, almost secret-garden feel without constant upkeep.

Pattern can extend beyond plants too. Decorative trellises, sculptural screens or even boldly printed outdoor cushions add another layer of interest. These elements help blur the line between indoor and outdoor living – something South Africans already do so well.

Edible gardens fit seamlessly into this trend. Mixing veggies, fruit and herbs with ornamentals creates a practical yet visually exciting space. Think rainbow chard, tomatoes on rustic supports, berry bushes and fragrant basil tucked between flowering beds. Even poolside areas can embrace maximalism. Striped loungers, patterned umbrellas and vibrant planters can transform a simple swimming zone into a stylish retreat perfect for weekend braais and summer gatherings.

Ultimately, maximalist gardening is about joy. It gives you permission to be playful, adventurous and unapologetically creative with your outdoor space. It’s gardening with heart, character and flair – and that’s exactly why it’s our new favourite trend.

ALSO SEE: HOW TO SHOP THE NURSERY CLEARANCE SECTION LIKE A GARDENING PRO