Green Spaces and Wellbeing: RHS 2024 Gardening Trends Uplift Londoners

As 2024 dawns, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) highlights the vital role of gardening in enhancing wellbeing, particularly for urban dwellers in cities like London. This year’s RHS Gardening Trends emphasize resilient, planet-friendly gardens, innovative greening of urban spaces, and the introduction of unique purple vegetables, aligning with the unpredictable effects of climate change.

The RHS predicts a surge in urban gardening, as residents in greyer areas creatively transform balconies and small spaces into lush, green oases. This movement not only fosters personal wellbeing but also contributes to urban biodiversity and combats climate change. From indoor spaces filled with houseplants to community-driven initiatives to green urban areas, the RHS underscores the importance of accessible green spaces for all.

The trend of ‘Grow Your Own’ continues to grow, with a focus on sustainable cultivation and environmental consciousness. Londoners are increasingly turning to gardening not just for yield but for its therapeutic benefits and connection to nature.

New this year are purple-hued vegetables, known for their health benefits, and climate change-resilient fruits like grapevines, figs, and melons, demonstrating adaptability to warmer, drier summers.

With the RHS committed to being net positive for nature and people by 2030 and its efforts to reflect the diverse communities of the UK, these trends are set to inspire Londoners to embrace gardening, regardless of their living situation, and reap its numerous benefits.

For more on RHS and gardening inspiration, visit www.rhs.org.uk.