Salt Lake City is known for its stunning mountain views, diverse seasons, and a climate that requires innovative landscaping solutions. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to boost curb appeal or a property manager aiming to attract tenants, staying ahead of the latest landscaping trends is crucial. Here are the top 10 landscaping trends that are dominating Salt Lake City and how you can integrate them to make your property truly stand out.

Ready to incorporate these trends and elevate your landscape? Contact Millburn Landscape today for expert guidance and professional landscaping services that make your property stand out year-round!
1. Xeriscaping for Water Efficiency
With water conservation becoming a top priority in Utah, xeriscaping has emerged as a popular landscaping trend. This approach involves using drought-tolerant plants, native grasses, and strategically placed hardscapes to minimize water usage. Properties that incorporate xeriscaping not only help the environment but also save on water bills and require less maintenance.
Pro Tip: Choose native Utah plants like sagebrush, yucca, and blue fescue to ensure a vibrant yet low-maintenance landscape.
Outdoor Living Spaces for Year-Round Use
The trend of transforming backyards into functional outdoor living spaces continues to grow. From covered patios and pergolas to outdoor kitchens and fire pits, creating an area that extends your indoor living to the outdoors is key. This trend is perfect for Salt Lake City’s climate, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor activities year-round.
Pro Tip: Invest in weather-resistant furniture and features like built-in heaters or fire pits to keep the space comfortable even in cooler months.
3. Sustainable Landscaping with Native Plants
Incorporating native plants into your landscape design not only enhances the natural beauty of your property but also contributes to sustainability. Native plants are adapted to the local climate and require less water and fewer resources to thrive, making them an eco-friendly choice.
Top Choices: Penstemon, columbine, and rabbitbrush are among the best native plants for Salt Lake City landscaping.
4. Modern Minimalist Design
The sleek, clean look of modern minimalist landscaping is becoming increasingly popular in urban areas of Salt Lake City. This trend emphasizes simple lines, neutral colors, and functional spaces that prioritize low-maintenance plants and hardscape elements.
Pro Tip: Integrate smooth stone pathways, monochromatic plant palettes, and geometric shapes to create a modern aesthetic that complements any property.
5. Vertical Gardens for Small Spaces
For those with limited space, vertical gardens offer a creative way to add greenery without compromising on space. Wall-mounted planters, trellises, and living walls are excellent for small yards or urban properties that lack traditional lawn space.
Pro Tip: Use hardy plants like succulents and ferns that thrive in vertical setups for easy maintenance.
6. Integrated Smart Irrigation Systems
Technology has made its way into landscaping through smart irrigation systems. These systems use sensors and timers to optimize water usage, ensuring that your plants get the right amount of water at the right time. This trend is particularly valuable in Salt Lake City, where water conservation is essential.
Pro Tip: Opt for Wi-Fi-enabled irrigation controllers that can be managed through smartphone apps for ease of use.
7. Multi-Seasonal Plantings
Ensure your landscape looks appealing all year by choosing plants that offer seasonal interest. From spring blossoms to fall foliage, multi-seasonal plantings ensure that your property never looks barren.
Best Choices: Consider trees like maples for autumn color and perennials such as echinacea for summer blooms.
8. Outdoor Lighting for Ambiance and Safety
Outdoor lighting is not just about aesthetics; it also enhances safety. Adding strategically placed lighting can transform your landscape into a nighttime showcase while providing security for your property. Use LED lights to save energy and maintain a sustainable landscape.
Pro Tip: Use uplighting to highlight architectural features and path lights for walkways.
9. Edible Landscaping
The idea of combining beauty and functionality is at the heart of edible landscaping. Incorporating fruit trees, herbs, and vegetable plants into your landscape design not only enhances its visual appeal but also provides fresh, home-grown produce.
Top Picks: Dwarf apple trees, lavender, and berry bushes can thrive in Salt Lake City’s climate.
10. Water Features for Serenity and Appeal
From small fountains to elaborate ponds, water features can add a touch of tranquility to any landscape. They create a peaceful atmosphere and can help mask noise pollution, making your outdoor space more inviting.
Pro Tip: Choose a recirculating water feature to minimize water usage and keep the feature eco-friendly.
Conclusion
Staying ahead of these landscaping trends can transform your Salt Lake City property into a standout space that reflects both beauty and sustainability. From xeriscaping and modern minimalism to smart irrigation and edible landscaping, there are plenty of ways to enhance your property and make it the envy of the neighborhood.