Top Landscaping Trends for Crestview, FL Yards in 2026

Understanding Crestview’s Landscaping Environment

Before looking at specific trends, it helps to understand the environment in Crestview. Climate and soil strongly influence what works well in local yards.

Climate Basics

Crestview has:

• Hot summers with high humidity.
• Mild winters with occasional cool spells.
• Seasonal rain, including heavy summer showers.

These conditions affect plant choice, watering habits, and lawn care.

Soil Considerations

Many areas around Crestview have:

• Sandy or sandy loam soil.
• Fast drainage in some yards.
• Poor nutrient retention without soil improvement.

Because of this, plants that tolerate sandy soil and heat tend to perform better.

Trend 1: Native and Florida Friendly Plants

One of the biggest landscaping trends for 2026 is the use of native and Florida friendly plants. These plants are adapted to local conditions and often need less care once established.

Why Native Plants Are Popular

Homeowners are choosing native plants because they:

• Tolerate local heat and rainfall patterns.
• Often need less water once established.
• Support birds, butterflies, and pollinators.
• Blend naturally with the environment.

Popular Plant Types in Crestview

Some commonly used plants include:

• Saw palmetto
• Coontie
• Firebush
• Beautyberry
• Blanket flower
• Muhly grass

These plants can be used in many design styles, from natural landscapes to more structured gardens.

Mixing Native With Traditional Plants

Many homeowners mix native plants with popular ornamentals. This creates a balanced look that feels both local and personalized.

Trend 2: Low Maintenance Landscaping

Busy schedules are pushing homeowners to look for yards that look good without constant work.

Features of Low Maintenance Yards

Low maintenance landscaping often includes:

• Fewer large lawn areas.
• Mulch or gravel beds instead of grass in some areas.
• Slow growing shrubs.
• Ground covers instead of delicate flowers.

Plant Choices for Easy Care

Plants often chosen for low maintenance include:

• Dwarf yaupon holly
• Liriope
• Juniper
• Indian hawthorn
• Sunshine ligustrum

These plants typically need less pruning and can handle Crestview’s climate well.

Benefits Beyond Time Savings

Low maintenance landscapes can also:

• Reduce water use.
• Lower lawn care costs.
• Stay neat with less effort.

Trend 3: Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor living continues to grow in popularity. In 2026, many Crestview homeowners see their yard as an extension of their home.

Common Outdoor Living Features

These may include:

• Patios or decks
• Pergolas or covered areas
• Outdoor kitchens or grills
• Fire pits
• Seating and dining areas

Designing for Comfort

Comfort is key. People are choosing:

• Shade structures to block strong sun.
• Ceiling fans or outdoor fans.
• Soft lighting for evening use.
• Comfortable furniture made for outdoor use.

Blending With the Landscape

Outdoor spaces are often designed to flow naturally with the yard. Plants, paths, and hardscapes are used to guide movement and create inviting spaces.

Trend 4: Water Smart Landscaping

Water use is a growing concern. In Crestview, heavy rain in some seasons and dry spells in others make water management important.

Water Saving Techniques

Homeowners are using:

• Drip irrigation instead of sprinklers.
• Rain barrels to collect water.
• Mulch to reduce evaporation.
• Plants that tolerate dry conditions.

Rain Friendly Design

Some yards are designed to handle heavy rain by:

• Using rain gardens to catch runoff.
• Adding swales or gentle slopes.
• Improving drainage with gravel or stone.

Benefits of Smart Water Use

These designs can:

• Reduce water bills.
• Help prevent erosion.
• Protect plant roots from standing water.

Trend 5: Natural and Relaxed Designs

In 2026, many homeowners are moving away from stiff, formal landscaping. Instead, they prefer relaxed, natural looks.

Characteristics of Natural Style Yards

These yards often include:

• Curved paths instead of straight lines.
• Mixed plant heights and textures.
• Native and flowering plants.
• Stone or wood features.

Why This Style Is Popular

Natural landscapes:

• Feel calm and welcoming.
• Blend with Florida’s environment.
• Allow more creativity.

They also tend to hide minor imperfections better than very formal designs.

Trend 6: Functional Landscaping

Landscapes are being designed for how people actually use their yards.

Examples of Functional Design

This may include:

• Play areas for children.
• Pet friendly spaces.
• Walking paths.
• Garden beds for vegetables or herbs.
• Quiet corners for reading or relaxing.

Designing Around Lifestyle

Homeowners are asking:

• Do we entertain often?
• Do we have pets or kids?
• Do we enjoy gardening?
• Do we want privacy?

Answers to these questions shape the layout of the yard.

Trend 7: Simple, Clean Layouts

Another trend is simplicity. Instead of overcrowded yards, people are choosing cleaner designs.

Features of Clean Layouts

These include:

• Fewer plant types.
• Repeated patterns.
• Clear borders and paths.
• Open spaces mixed with planted areas.

Benefits of Simplicity

Simple designs:

• Are easier to maintain.
• Look organized.
• Let key features stand out.

Trend 8: Year Round Interest

Homeowners want yards that look good all year, not just in spring.

How to Create Year Round Interest

This can include:

• Evergreen shrubs for structure.
• Plants with colorful leaves.
• Trees that bloom at different times.
• Seasonal flowers in small areas.

Planning for All Seasons

A good plan considers:

• Spring flowers
• Summer greenery
• Fall color
• Winter structure

Trend 9: Sustainable Landscaping

Sustainability is becoming more important in 2026.

Sustainable Choices

Homeowners are using:

• Compost and natural soil improvement.
• Native and drought tolerant plants.
• Reduced chemical use.
• Mulching to protect soil.

Why Sustainability Matters

These practices can:

• Protect local ecosystems.
• Improve soil health.
• Reduce long term maintenance needs.

Trend 10: Mixed Materials and Textures

Landscapes in 2026 often combine different materials.

Common Material Mixes

This may include:

• Stone and wood
• Gravel and grass
• Pavers and mulch
• Metal and plants

Visual Interest

Mixing textures:

• Adds depth to the yard.
• Makes spaces feel more dynamic.
• Helps separate different areas.

Planning a Trend Inspired Yard

You do not need to follow every trend. Choose ideas that fit your space and lifestyle.

Step by Step Planning

1. Look at your yard’s size, shape, and sun exposure.
2. Think about how you use the space.
3. Decide what problems you want to solve.
4. Pick trends that support your goals.
5. Start small if needed.

Budget Considerations

Some trends are affordable, like changing plants or adding mulch. Others, like patios or outdoor kitchens, cost more. Set a budget before starting.

Landscaping Trends at a Glance

Final Thoughts

Landscaping trends for Crestview, FL yards in 2026 reflect a desire for beauty, comfort, and practicality. Homeowners are choosing designs that fit their lives, respect the local climate, and make outdoor spaces more enjoyable.

From native plants and water smart designs to outdoor living spaces and simple layouts, there are many ways to refresh a yard. The best trend is the one that works for you. By understanding your space, your needs, and your budget, you can create a yard that feels welcoming and easy to enjoy for years to come.