As homeowners across Minnesota seek to blend comfort, sustainability, and style, landscaping trends for 2025 are reflecting a shift toward outdoor functionality and eco-conscious living. From multi-functional outdoor living spaces to low-maintenance plants and innovative landscape drainage solutions, Otten Bros is at the forefront of helping families transform their outdoor environments.

Since 1953, Otten Bros has been Minnesota’s trusted source for landscape design, residential landscaping, and garden supplies. Here’s your insider guide to the top trends shaping outdoor spaces this year—along with how our team can help you implement them.

1. Outdoor Living Spaces: Extending Comfort Outdoors

In 2025, homeowners want more than just a backyard—they want a seamless extension of their indoor living. Outdoor kitchens, fire features, and cozy lounge areas are rising in popularity, especially when paired with elegant hardscaping.

Otten Bros Recommends:

• Concrete patios designed for dining and relaxation 
• Built-in seating walls or custom retaining walls for structure and comfort 
• Stylish stepping stone walkway designs to connect different zones 

With a thoughtful landscape design company like Otten Bros, your backyard becomes a year-round retreat.

2. Edible Gardens and Native Plantings

Edible landscaping is no longer just a novelty—it’s a trend that’s here to stay. Incorporating fruits, vegetables, and herbs directly into garden landscaping plans supports sustainability while enhancing visual interest.

Native low-maintenance plants are also in demand, reducing the need for chemical treatments and extensive watering. Think wild strawberries, blueberry bushes, and pollinator-friendly herbs like lavender and mint.

Tip:

Layer edible plants with ornamental natives for a lush, dynamic garden that’s easy to care for. Visit The Garden Center at Otten Bros to explore plant varieties that thrive in Minnesota’s climate.

3. Eco-Friendly Drainage and Water Management

With unpredictable rainfall and snowmelt, landscape drainage is essential in Minnesota. In 2025, the emphasis is on blending function and aesthetics by designing water-smart features that also add beauty.

Trending Solutions:

• Rain gardens filled with native plants 
• Retaining walls that redirect water flow 
• Decorative gravel swales 
• Permeable paver walkway designs 

Otten Bros specializes in landscaping and water drainage strategies to protect your property and boost its curb appeal.

4. Modern Minimalism Meets Natural Aesthetics

A balanced, contemporary look is in—clean lines, neutral palettes, and low-maintenance yard design combined with lush greenery and organic textures.

Incorporate sleek hardscape elements like a concrete block retaining wall, angular patios, or geometric landscape design walkways to contrast native plantings and create visual interest.

Otten Bros’ landscape designers tailor your vision into clean, modern landscape front yard designs or easy backyard landscape designs that never go out of style.

5. Wellness-Focused Garden Spaces

People are using their landscapes for more than just aesthetics—they’re designing spaces for rest, reflection, and wellness. Think shaded reading nooks, meditation gardens, or soundscape elements like water features.

These spaces may include:

• Privacy-enhancing plant screens 
• Cozy nooks surrounded by low-maintenance plants 
• Sensory elements such as soft grasses and aromatic herbs 

With help from a landscape specialist, you can turn a neglected corner into a rejuvenating retreat.

6. Multi-Level Landscaping with Retaining Walls

As more homeowners work with sloped yards, multi-tiered gardens supported by custom retaining walls are in high demand. These add structure, improve drainage, and allow for creative planting at different heights.

Whether you’re looking for a concrete block retaining wall or natural stone alternatives, Otten Bros partners with top retaining wall contractors to deliver durable and attractive results.

7. Smart Front Walkway Design

Curb appeal still matters—and in 2025, it’s all about landscape design front walkway ideas that impress and welcome. A curved paver walkway design, lined with perennials and accent lighting, creates an elegant first impression.

For added charm, incorporate stepping stone walkway designs that guide guests through a thoughtfully planted entrance.

FAQ: Landscaping Trends & Best Practices

Are edible gardens high maintenance?

Not necessarily. With smart design and the right plant selection, edible gardens can be integrated into low maintenance landscape design.

Can retaining walls help with water drainage?

Absolutely. Otten Bros’ team designs retaining walls that manage runoff while adding visual structure to your yard.

What are the best low-maintenance plants for Minnesota?

Coneflowers, sedum, serviceberry, and ornamental grasses like Little Bluestem are ideal.

Do you need a professional for modern landscape design?

A professional landscape design company ensures your layout is functional, sustainable, and tailored to your space.

Final Thoughts

The landscaping trends of 2025 are all about blending functionality, sustainability, and style. Whether you’re updating a small garden bed or creating an expansive luxury landscape, Otten Bros offers the expertise, plants, and materials you need. From outdoor living spaces to eco-friendly drainage solutions, our team helps you transform your yard into a beautiful, livable extension of your home.

Let’s bring your vision to life—connect with Otten Bros today to start planning your 2025 landscape!