FloralDailyに掲載されていた記事（2023 fall trends in the horticultural industry）が、坂嵜潮さんからメールで送られてきた。偶然にも、その水曜日の朝に、坂嵜さんについての原稿（JFMAニュースの巻頭言）を完成したばかりだった。わたしも三好正一社長（ミヨシグループ）から勧められて、FloralDailyとHortiDailyを購読している。
HortiBiz Newsは、デジタルになる以前から紙媒体でも購読していた。こちらは、海下さん（クリザール・ジャパン）からの推薦だったような記憶がある。
3つのオンライン雑誌とも、毎日は送られてくるが、それほど細かくチェックしているわけではない。気が向いたときに、気になったコラムを読んでいるだけである。水曜日（９月20日号）の記事は、飛ばし読んでいたので、坂嵜さんからコピーで教えられた記事は目に留まらなかった。
坂嵜さんが、この記事をわたしと松島さん（JFMA事務局長）に送信してくれたのは、来年の「JFMA新春セミナー」のテーマ（ネタ）を探していたからだろう。記事中にキーワードで使用されている、Indoor Gardening Flourishes（室内園芸）、Wellness Gardens for Mental Health（心の健康を維持するための庭づくり）、Native Plants and Biodiversity Conservation（野生種と生物多様性の保全）は、SDGｓの流れの中で、ここ数年のトレンドワードになっている。
生態系にやさしい（eco-friendly）と環境に配慮した（environmentally conscious）の園芸（horticultural practices）が求められている。
詳細については、記事をごらんください。新しい園芸用語として、Biophilic design（”自然界にある植物の様式を建造物に取り入れた環境デザイン）がホットである。
ーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーー
2023 fall trends in the horticultural industry
As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures cool, the horticultural industry is gearing up for another exciting season of growth and innovation. The fall of 2023 promises to be a season of transformation driven by changing consumer preferences, advances in technology, and a growing awareness of environmental sustainability.
Sustainable Practices Take Root
Sustainability has become a cornerstone of the horticultural industry, and this trend is set to continue this fall. Consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly options, and horticultural businesses are responding by adopting more sustainable practices. This includes reducing water usage, using organic fertilizers, and embracing alternative energy sources like solar power for greenhouses. The fall of 2023 will see an even greater emphasis on environmentally conscious horticultural practices.
Indoor Gardening Flourishes
Indoor gardening has been on the rise in recent years, and this trend is expected to gain even more traction this fall. With the availability of advanced LED grow lights and smart irrigation systems, enthusiasts can now create lush green spaces within their homes. The horticultural industry is responding with a growing range of indoor-specific plant varieties, making it easier than ever for consumers to bring the beauty of nature indoors.
Biophilic Design Takes Center Stage
Biophilic design, which seeks to incorporate natural elements into our built environments, is becoming increasingly popular. As people spend more time indoors, they are seeking ways to reconnect with nature. This fall, horticultural businesses are capitalizing on this trend by offering design services that integrate plants and greenery into homes and workplaces. The result is not only aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to improved indoor air quality and overall well-being.
Digital Transformation and Automation
The horticultural industry is no stranger to technological innovation, and this fall, digital transformation, and automation will continue to drive progress. From AI-powered pest control systems to automated greenhouse management, technology is making horticultural operations more efficient and sustainable. This trend allows growers to monitor and control conditions remotely, optimizing crop growth and resource utilization.
Unique Plant Varieties and Novelty Gardening
Gardening enthusiasts are always on the lookout for unique and rare plant varieties to add to their collections. This fall, horticultural businesses are responding by offering a wider range of exotic and novelty plants. Whether it’s unusual succulents, variegated foliage, or plants with vibrant, eye-catching colors, consumers are spoiled for choice. Novelty gardening is a trend that brings excitement and creativity to the world of horticulture.
Wellness Gardens for Mental Health
The awareness of the positive impact of gardening on mental health is growing rapidly. This fall, we will witness the rise of wellness gardens explicitly designed to promote relaxation, mindfulness, and stress reduction. These gardens incorporate soothing elements such as aromatic herbs, tranquil water features, and comfortable seating areas. As the world grapples with ongoing stressors, wellness gardens offer a much-needed escape.
Urban Agriculture Expands
The move towards sustainable, locally sourced food continues to drive the expansion of urban agriculture. This fall, we will see more rooftop gardens, vertical farming systems, and community gardens in cities across the globe. These initiatives not only contribute to food security but also reconnect urban dwellers with the process of growing their own produce.
Native Plants and Biodiversity Conservation
Conserving biodiversity and supporting native plant species are priorities in the horticultural industry this fall. Growing native plants helps protect local ecosystems and provides food and habitat for native wildlife. Horticultural businesses are increasingly promoting native plant selections, and consumers are becoming more aware of the benefits of using indigenous species in their landscapes.
In conclusion, the horticultural industry is set to experience exciting developments this fall, driven by sustainability, technological innovation, and a growing desire for a deeper connection with nature. From sustainable practices to urban agriculture and biophilic design, these trends will shape the way we interact with and appreciate the natural world in the coming season. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newcomer to horticulture, there’s something for everyone to look forward to in the world of plants and gardening in the fall of 2023.
Publication date: Wed 20 Sep 2023
