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Top 5 Commercial Landscape Trends for 2026

  • Writer: DARYL AVERY SWANSON
    DARYL AVERY SWANSON
  • 6 days ago
  • 3 min read
Commercial property showing a landscape in spring with trees and the corner of a commercial building

Landscaping isn't just about curb appeal. This year, property owners, facility managers, and asset managers are prioritizing climate resilience, safety, sustainability, operational efficiency, and tenant satisfaction.  

  

These five landscape trends are shaping how commercial sites are being designed, maintained, and evaluated in 2026. Planning with these trends in mind protects property value and long-term budgets while managing rising costs and regulatory demands.  

  

1. Climate-Resilient Landscapes 

  

Extreme weather events, fluctuating temperatures, and heavier precipitation cycles are forcing commercial properties to rethink how landscapes are designed and maintained. In 2026, resilience is not just an option, but a requirement.  

  

Climate-resilient landscapes prioritize durability and performance over seasonal aesthetics. This includes the increased use of native and adaptive plants that are better suited to local conditions and reducing traditional turf areas in favor of plantings that require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance.  

  

It's also important to consider how designs handle drought, flooding, freeze-thaw cycles, and heat stress. For commercial properties, a climate-resilient approach significantly reduces plant replacement costs and minimizes service disruptions after severe weather.  

  

A climate-resilient landscape protects operations, budgets, and site appearance year-round.  

  

2. Sustainable Landscape Practices 

  

As sustainability becomes a priority for municipalities, many commercial property owners are being asked to demonstrate environmental responsibility. This shift is driving the need to adopt practical and measurable landscape practices. These include integrated pest management to reduce chemical use, more efficient irrigation systems with water-use tracking, and the electrification of landscape maintenance equipment to reduce emissions. The use of carbon-conscious materials and maintenance practices are also gaining traction. 

  

Sustainable landscapes support compliance, strengthen brand reputation, and lead to long-term cost savings, greater efficiency, and a reduction in resource use.  

  

3. Smart Maintenance Systems  

  

As operational costs continue to impact the commercial landscape industry, the adoption of smart maintenance systems will be vital to improving efficiency. Smart irrigation systems tied to real-time weather data help eliminate overwatering and reduce utility costs. Soil moisture sensors allow for targeted watering based on actual site conditions. Using smart maintenance systems leads to predictive maintenance planning that addresses issues before they turn into costly repairs. 

  

Digital reporting is also a key aspect of smart maintenance systems. Property managers require clear documentation, performance data, and service transparency to support budgeting and decision-making. Technology-driven maintenance systems deliver more predictable costs and fewer surprises. 

  

4. Enhanced Safety and Risk Management 

  

Safety remains one of the most critical factors in landscape planning, especially for commercial properties in regions that experience snow, ice, and other seasonal weather extremes. 

  

In 2026, it's critical to evaluate landscape design through a risk-management approach. Clear pedestrian flow, unobstructed sightlines, and strategic lighting placement are essential components of safer sites.  

  

Plant selection and hardscape design can also be used to reduce ice buildup, refreeze zones, and drainage issues. 

  

Proactive snow and ice management planning continues to play a vital role in reducing slip-and-fall claims and liability exposure. 

  

Well-planned landscapes and snow strategies protect tenants, visitors, and property owners. 

 

 

5. Outdoor Amenities and Tenant Experience 

  

As office, mixed-use, and multifamily properties compete for tenants, outdoor spaces have become a key differentiator. This year, landscapes are increasingly viewed as not just surroundings, but vital amenities. This includes adding outdoor break areas, gathering spaces, walking paths, and shaded seating that support wellness and encourage use throughout the workday.  

  

Thoughtful landscape design enhances employee satisfaction, supports retention, and improves the overall perception of a property. For property owners and managers, elevating outdoor amenities translates into higher tenant satisfaction and stronger occupancy rates, supporting long-term asset value.  

  

Turn 2026 Trends into a Strong Property Plan  

 

This year, the most successful commercial landscapes will be those that are planned proactively, not reactively. Climate resilience, sustainability, smart maintenance systems, safety, and tenant experience are interconnected components of effective site management.  

  

Landscape America stays on top of the latest commercial landscape trends and can help guide and educate you on what makes sense for your unique property. From design and maintenance to year-round site management, we’ll build a plan that keeps these 2026 priorities in focus. 

 

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