Summer in New Jersey means more time outdoors—whether you’re barbecuing with neighbors, tending to your garden, or simply relaxing on the patio. As we head into 2025, homeowners and landscape professionals alike are embracing new trends that prioritize sustainability, low maintenance, and outdoor living enhancements. If you’re planning to revamp your yard this season, this guide will help you get inspired and stay ahead of the curve.
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we keep a close eye on landscaping trends so you don’t have to. Here are the top landscaping trends for summer 2025, and how you can bring them to life in your own backyard.
1. Drought-Tolerant and Native Plant Landscaping
With more homeowners prioritizing eco-conscious living, native plants and drought-resistant species are becoming landscaping staples in NJ. These plants are well-suited to local climates, require less water, and thrive with minimal maintenance.
Popular Choices in NJ:
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
- Coneflowers (Echinacea)
- New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus)
- Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)
Pro Tip: Incorporate mulch to help retain moisture and reduce weed growth—something we can help you with at Kirk Allen Landscape Supply.
2. Gravel and Stone for Low-Maintenance Appeal
Gravel and decorative rock are quickly replacing traditional lawns and flower beds in many NJ homes. Gravel walkways, stone patios, and river rock features offer an elegant aesthetic with minimal upkeep.
Benefits:
- Prevents erosion
- Promotes drainage
- Requires no mowing or fertilizing
- Pairs beautifully with minimalist and Zen garden designs
We carry a wide selection of gravel, river stones, and decorative rock to help bring your modern landscape ideas to life.
3. Outdoor Living Rooms & Kitchens
The line between indoor and outdoor living continues to blur in 2025. More NJ homeowners are investing in outdoor kitchens, fire pits, pergolas, and lounge areas to make the most of their outdoor spaces.
Must-Have Features:
- Paver patios or stone slabs
- Outdoor seating walls using natural stone
- Built-in fire features or fire bowls
- Weatherproof cabinetry and grills
If you’re planning to upgrade your backyard this year, now is the time to stock up on materials like stone pavers, sand, and topsoil.
4. Sustainable Mulching Practices
Spring isn’t the only time for mulching. Summer mulch application helps your garden beds retain moisture and suppress weeds during the hottest months.
Why It’s Trending:
- Improves soil structure and health
- Conserves water during heat waves
- Adds visual appeal with natural textures
Choose from dyed hardwood mulch, cedar mulch, or even pine bark for a more rustic look. We deliver mulch in bulk throughout the NJ area.
5. Pollinator Gardens
Pollinator-friendly gardens are having a moment. These gardens are not only beautiful but also essential for supporting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators that keep ecosystems healthy.
Include Plants Like:
- Bee balm
- Milkweed
- Lavender
- Butterfly bush
Bonus: A pollinator garden doesn’t have to be big. Even a corner with a few blooming perennials can make a difference.
6. Raised Garden Beds and Edging Upgrades
Whether you’re growing herbs, flowers, or vegetables, raised garden beds are trending in 2025 for their clean design and convenience. Edging upgrades using stone or brick are also popular to create defined lines and polished looks.
Product Pairing:
- Natural stone for edging
- Landscape fabric to control weeds
- Mulch or gravel for a finished appearance
Raised beds are not only functional—they’re a stylish addition to any yard.
7. Color Trends for 2025
Color trends in landscaping are mirroring interior design palettes—think natural, calming tones with pops of bold contrast.
Trending Combinations:
- Soft greens + charcoal grey gravel
- Neutral tan pavers + bright perennials (like red or yellow coneflowers)
- Warm-toned mulch + deep blue planters
Get creative and let your landscape reflect your personal style while following this season’s popular color pairings.
8. Rain Gardens and Water Management Features
New Jersey’s seasonal rain patterns make rain gardens both practical and beautiful. These landscape features help manage stormwater runoff and improve soil drainage.
Build With:
- River rock
- Native grasses
- Permeable sand and soil blends
Our team at Kirk Allen Landscape Supply can help you select the right materials for DIY or professional rain garden installations.
9. Artificial Turf with Natural Stone Accents
For homeowners who want a green look without the upkeep, artificial turf continues to grow in popularity—especially when bordered with stone or gravel for a natural transition.
This combination is perfect for:
- Dog-friendly zones
- Small yards
- Play areas or putting greens
Pair turf with decorative gravel pathways or stone benches to complete the scene.
10. Garden Lighting and Nightscaping
Nightscaping—landscaping that shines after dark—is on the rise in NJ. Strategically placed LED lights, solar path markers, and uplighting for trees or garden features allow you to enjoy your landscape well into the evening.
Popular Uses:
- Pathway safety lighting
- Accent lighting for water features
- String lights over patios or pergolas
Good lighting turns your outdoor space into a cozy, usable extension of your home.
Final Thoughts
Summer 2025 landscaping in New Jersey is all about functionality, sustainability, and style. Whether you’re aiming to reduce maintenance, support the environment, or just make your yard more enjoyable, there are plenty of exciting directions to go.
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we’re proud to serve homeowners, landscapers, and contractors across NJ with top-quality mulch, stone, soil, and more. We offer fast, reliable delivery and friendly service.
Need help picking the right materials? Call us today at 973-347-3117. We’re here to help you bring your summer landscape vision to life.
