Reinventing Outdoor Spaces: How to Style Your Outdoor Space with Artificial Plants

The best option never existed in terms of your outdoor space. That old retro garden vibe never seemed to be so beautiful when we used to sit in the evening with our hot brew and the sunset.

Back then, gardens weren’t about showing off. They were about feeling at home, a place where we could pause and just let the day fade away.

Now, bringing that feeling into your outdoor space isn’t about recreating the past but about finding what feels right for you. It can be a favourite sitting spot with some plants, a tree that offers just the right amount of shade, or a simple grass wall where you can click some memories.

It’s all about creating a space where you can pause from the day and feel like yourself. And honestly, isn’t that what we all need a little more of? But, as much as we loved the idea of having a lush garden, the reality of maintaining one here in Australia is another story.

The thing is, natural greenery doesn’t always get along with these temperature swings. The intense summer heat can dry plants out quicker than you can water them, while sudden cold snaps or unpredictable rains can damage their roots or leaves. Even if you put in all the effort – watering, fertilising, trimming, sometimes the weather still wins. And, of course, not everyone has the time to play plant doctor every week.

This is where artificial outdoor trees and gardens become a useful solution. They give you the look of fresh, healthy greenery without the stress of keeping it alive. These are made to look just as good as the real thing but without needing constant attention. No wilting leaves in summer. No frost damage in winter. No pests nibbling away at the foliage.

If you want your outdoor spaces to look good without the daily upkeep, then artificial plants and trees are just for you. Be it decorating a patio, setting up a garden corner, or lining a walkway, these are crafted to endure the ups and downs of Australia’s climate. They’ll stay looking fresh and lively without the extra work.

So, if you are in a hassle for decking up your outdoor areas with minimal upkeep and low maintenance, this guide post is for you!

Here, we will talk about how to style your outdoors with artificial plants:

Get To Know Your Outdoor Space First

Before choosing artificial plants, take a minute to look at your outdoor space. Think about where you want to place them and what vibe you're going for. Are you thinking of a cosy nook, a stylish courtyard, or maybe a welcoming doorway?

Start by considering factors like sunlight and wind. Although artificial plants don't need direct sunlight (yay for low maintenance!), they look best when placed in spots that align with their natural surroundings. For example, placing tall faux trees by a corner of your patio can create a natural frame for your seating area. At the same time, smaller plants can add green pops to shelves or tables.

Start With A Stunning Vertical Garden

Those stunning background covers are always the focal point wherever they are placed. We can’t ignore the scenes that these artificial outdoor trees create. Being easy to install and maintain, these lush greenery sets a perfect wall base for any outdoor area. Also, whenever you are stepping out to get a makeover for your garden, start by arranging some fake green walls as the first step towards your styling guide.

Some popular options include:

• Luxury Country Fern Vertical Garden: Perfect for a timeless, natural look. With its mix of green tones, it works beautifully on fences, patios, or balconies.
• Flowering White Jasmine Vertical Garden: Ideal for those looking to add a hint of colour while maintaining a sophisticated appearance.
• Green Meadows Vertical Garden: This is an excellent choice for modern spaces, offering a blend of textures and shades that feel lively and fresh.

Placement Tips:

• Use vertical gardens to cover dull walls or fences.
• Install them behind seating areas to create a cosy backdrop.
• Incorporate them in commercial spaces to add character to office exteriors or shopfronts.

Choose the Right Plants for the Look You Want

Now comes the fun part: picking the plants! It's like being a gardener without getting your hands dirty. Artificial plants come in many varieties, from lush greenery to vibrant flowers to even tiny succulents. Think about the style you're going for. Do you want a tropical oasis with large palms and ferns? Or perhaps a more minimalist vibe with simple, sleek succulents?

The trick is to mix and match. For instance, combining a few tall plants with small, hanging planters can add depth and dimension to your outdoor space. Different textures (like a mix of leafy ferns and spiky cactus) can create contrast and visual interest.

Think About Planters and Pots

Once you've chosen your artificial plants, it's time to think about how you'll display them. Planters and pots are like accessories to your plants. Choose ones that complement the overall style you're aiming for. If you’re going for a modern, clean look, sleek concrete or metal pots will do the trick. Wooden or woven baskets will add a homely touch if you want something more rustic.

Also, consider varying the sizes and shapes of the planters. Larger plants can go in bigger pots, and smaller plants can be spread out in cute, colourful containers. You can even mix in some high and low planters to create layers that give your space more depth.

The hanging artificial plants are also a simple way to infuse greenery into tight or overlooked spaces. They’re especially useful for balconies, pergolas, and small patios.

Some top picks include:

• Hanging Artificial Bougainvillea: With its vibrant pink and lilac hues, this plant adds an instant splash of colour.
• Natural Green Hanging Plant: A subtle yet effective option for a fresh, natural look.
• Red Flowering Mixed Foliage: Perfect for spaces needing a bold statement.

Placement Suggestions:

• Hang baskets from pergolas or porch ceilings to create layers of greenery.
• Use hanging plants to frame windows or doorways.
• Cluster multiple baskets at different heights for a visually dynamic display.

Play with Heights and Layers

A great way to make your outdoor space feel like a real garden is by creating layers with heights. Don’t just stick to one level! Use tall artificial trees in the back of your space and shorter plants in the front. Layering your plants naturally will make your space feel more lush and full.

Also, don’t be afraid to add plant stands, shelves, or even hanging planters. This creates a more dynamic look and is perfect for small spaces with limited floor space.

Some standout options include:

• Artificial Topiary Spiral Tree: These sculpted trees are perfect for framing entryways or walkways.
• Tropical Phoenix Palm Tree: Create a vacation-like vibe with its lush leaves and realistic detailing.
• Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree: Its broad leaves make it a favourite for modern and minimalist designs.

Tips For Styling Artificial Trees:

• Use larger trees to anchor corners or empty spaces.
• Pair smaller trees with matching pots for symmetry on both sides of a doorway.
• Combine different tree styles for added interest and depth.

Incorporate Lighting for Ambiance

Of course, lighting is equally important. Just like real plants, artificial plants can look amazing with the right lighting. Imagine sitting outside in the evening with your plants softly glowing under string lights or some spotlights.

You can even get creative with LED lights that shine through the leaves, making your faux plants stand out at night. Be it a hanging lantern, fairy lights along your plants, or spotlights tucked in a corner, lighting can make your artificial plants look even more stunning.

Easy Care and Maintenance

The best part of artificial plants is their low maintenance: no watering, pruning, or worry about harsh weather. You can even opt for the UV-protected artificial plants, as they are specifically crafted to resist fading and damage caused by the sun. This makes them ideal for outdoor use, as they retain their original colours and realistic appearance for extended periods.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Search for plants marked as UV-resistant to ensure their longevity.
• Place them in spots that receive direct sunlight to maximise their UV safeguarding.
• Regularly clean the plants to maintain their cleanliness and remove any dust.

Do remember that extreme weather, like heavy rain or strong winds, may require extra precautions, such as bringing plants inside or covering them. Otherwise, they’re quite hassle-free!

Keep Things Fresh With Ease

One of the greatest benefits of artificial outdoor plants is their versatility. Unlike natural plants, they can be easily rearranged, replaced, or updated according to the changing seasons.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Swap out flowering plants for seasonal colours to create a fresh look.
• Rearrange trees and shrubs to adapt to new layouts or renovations.
• Experiment with different pots and containers to refresh your space.

Where To Find The Best Artificial Outdoor Plants?

For premium-quality artificial plants and vertical gardens, Designer Vertical Gardens is the trusted expert across Australia. If you’re designing a residential space or want to enhance a business property, we offer various lifelike options to suit every style and need.

Live Fresh, Live Green!

Artificial greenery is about keeping things simple. They allow you to enjoy a neat, green look all year round without worrying about the seasons or weather spoiling it. Having artificial green walls or fake plants is a classic way to create outdoor spaces that always feel inviting.