A recent survey conducted by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has revealed a significant shift in the colour preferences of British gardeners, with purple emerging as the leading choice among plant hues. This vibrant trend, highlighted at the RHS Garden Wisley’s Hilltop, showcases a growing desire for colour in outdoor spaces, moving away from the muted tones that have dominated garden design in recent years.
A Shift in Colour Preferences
This summer, as gardens bloom across the country, the prominence of purple is hard to ignore. The RHS’s extensive research involved over 11,000 visitors who were asked to select their preferred colours for plants. The results were striking: purple shades garnered the highest preference at 26.67%, closely followed by red at 25.24%. This departure from the recent trend of grey paving and minimalist lawns signals a new era in British gardening.
Tom Massey, an acclaimed garden designer from London, has observed this shift firsthand. He notes that his clients are increasingly favouring vibrant colours, particularly purples, which evoke a sense of natural beauty and diversity. “We’ve moved away from the era of large expanses of decking, paving and lawn towards richer, more naturalistic planting inspired by meadows and natural plant communities,” he explained.
The Allure of Purple Plants
The trend towards purple is not just a fleeting fancy; it reflects a deeper appreciation for the emotional resonance of colour in gardens. According to Laura Carey, co-owner of Carey Garden Designs, her clients consistently express a preference for purple plants. “There are so many purple flowering plants to choose from, including national favourites like lavender, alliums, and geraniums,” she remarked.
The appeal of purple is rooted in its versatility. Massey elaborates on its significance: “Purple has always been a hugely important colour in gardens because it combines beautifully with greens, silvers, and the buff tones of ornamental grasses. It also attracts pollinators and tends to have a calming quality.” Indeed, plants like salvias, nepetas, alliums, and lavender are not only aesthetically pleasing but also play a crucial role in enhancing biodiversity.
Emotional Connections to Colour
The emotional implications of colour in our surroundings are profound. Research has shown that shades of purple and blue can elicit feelings of calm and relaxation, while yellows and oranges are associated with joy. Dr. Ashby Sachs, a wellbeing fellow at the RHS, emphasises the importance of understanding these emotional responses in garden design. “Colour is a key consideration when it comes to garden design, but little is known about how it interacts with our sense of wellbeing,” he stated.
This understanding of colour psychology can be pivotal in creating spaces that cater to specific needs, such as in schools and hospitals where a soothing environment is essential. The findings from the RHS study, published in the journal *Acta Psychologica*, provide valuable insights into how colour can shape our experiences in outdoor spaces.
The Future of British Gardening
As this colourful trend continues to gain momentum, it reflects a broader movement towards more dynamic and expressive garden designs. High-profile public landscapes, such as the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London and the seasonal displays at RHS gardens, showcase the potential of bold colour combinations to create visually stunning and ecologically rich environments.
Massey concludes that the increasing confidence in colour choices among gardeners is a positive development. “You can see this in high-profile public landscapes that have proved hugely popular, where bold combinations of colour are used to create planting schemes that are both beautiful and ecologically rich,” he noted.
Why it Matters
The rising preference for vibrant colours, particularly purple, signals a cultural shift in how we approach gardening and outdoor spaces. This transformation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of our gardens but also promotes mental well-being and ecological diversity. As more people embrace colour in their gardens, we may witness a more profound appreciation for nature and the emotional benefits that come with it, ultimately enriching our lives and communities.
