The 13 worst garden trends of all time revealed – how many are you guilty of?
Some might surprise you!
There are some on the list of worst garden trends of all time that won't shock you – but also some we're actually quite fond of.
But like when it comes to decorating your home, how you finish your garden is completely personal to your tastes. If you love it, it can't ever really be wrong.
Lighthearted new research, commissioned by Draper Tools, asked those who own a garden to name their worst garden trends of all time. Four in 10 admitted that they regret some decisions they’ve made in relation to their own garden choices.
The best and worst garden trends of all time emerged from the study. With bird feeders and vegetable patches among the best, and gnomes and fake grass among the worst.
Related: The 12 worst decorating trends of the decade
Take a look at the complete list of least popular garden trends of all time...
Top 13 worst garden trends of all time
1. Garden gnomes
There's no denying, you either love or loathe these little garden characters. Asda bring out a new range every season and they sell-out in no time, so clearly they are well loved?!
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2. Fake grass
When it comes to artificial grass, there are those that can't believe it's a thing, and those that have been happy to drop the tiresome task of mowing the lawn. We're definitely split on this one.
Read more: Artificial grass – everything you need to know about buying and laying a low-maintenance faux lawn
3. Plastic ornaments
From windmills to old boots, the general feeling from this study is that plastic decorations are somewhat of an eyesore. A trend no-no.
4. Fake animal/bird statues
Ornaments of the fake animal variety were also called out as a no. Whether metal, wicker or plastic faux creatures, even flamingos (?!) were cited as a bad trend.
5. Artificial topiary balls
As with the grass, it seems there's a divide between those who welcome faux and those who run a mile from it. Artificial topiary balls are usually placed either side of the front door to make a first impression – not a good one for those who aren't fans.
6. Buddha statues
For those that worship this is not a bad trend. But for those that simply picked one up a Buddha in the aisles of Wilko because it was 'cute' – maybe!
7. Trampoline
It keeps the kids entertained for hours, but the trampoline is also viewed as a garden eyesore. We can understand why they made the list for the reason of appearance.
8. Hot tubs
We thought everyone wanted a hot tub, but clearly not!
9. Recycled old tires as plant containers
Upcycling has never been more popular, or beneficial as we battle the reduction of waste. We're on the fence for that reason.
10. Pub in a shed
Does this depend on how it's finished? We are assuming those not in favour are thinking along the lines of a bar looking tacky. But quite frankly, a home bar has never been so appealing right now if you ask us.
11. Ivy
Essentially a weed really, isn't it? It grows like mad and we're not even sure it can be considered a trend?
12. Fences painted with orange wood stain
Squirrel coloured is how we often describe it! Given the impact a fence has on the garden contained within, there's nothing worse than a bad wood stain leaving a bad impression.
13. Wind chimes
Definitely a personal taste thing. The sound is either ethereal or irritating to most.
'The research goes to show just how passionate we are about our gardens,' remarks Kev Smith, head of marketing at Draper Tools. 'Clearly those polled have pretty strong opinions on what works and what doesn’t.'
'Gardens are a very personal thing and what is right for one person isn’t necessarily right for another, so if you’re happy with your garden then that’s all that matters.
Related: Alan Titchmarsh has an important announcement for fans of Love Your Garden
'But it’s certainly fascinating – and a bit of fun – to find out what people are keen on and what they’re not quite so fond of.'
Despite it being a personal choice, around a quarter of gardeners said they make a concerted effort to keep up to date with the latest gardening trends. With three in 10 getting most of their inspiration from visiting garden centres. However 26 per cent said gardening TV programmes were also a valuable source.
The Draper Tools study, carried out through OnePoll, surveyed 2,000 adults as part of the study.
Tamara was Ideal Home's Digital Editor before joining the Woman & Home team in 2022. She has spent the last 15 years working with the style teams at Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, both now at Future PLC. It’s with these award wining interiors teams that she's honed her skills and passion for shopping, styling and writing. Tamara is always ahead of the curve when it comes to interiors trends – and is great at seeking out designer dupes on the high street.
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