How spending time in the garden is becoming Ireland’s favourite offline hobby
In a world dominated by screens, more and more Irish people are rediscovering the simple joys of their own back gardens. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon with the kids, tending to vegetables, or hosting a summer BBQ, gardens are becoming sanctuaries for balance—and in some cases, unexpected fun.
Recent data from Bord Bia shows that over 67% of Irish households engaged in some form of gardening in the past year, with a growing trend toward “garden as lifestyle.” This shift isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about carving out real, quality time away from the noise of daily life. But interestingly, not everyone is disconnecting completely.
For some, the garden is also becoming a place for quiet digital leisure—like catching up on podcasts, reading e-books, or even browsing platforms that cater to niche interests. One area seeing increased traction in this context is the world of online entertainment tailored to Irish audiences, such as Ireland's leading online casino platforms. With mobile-friendly setups and a growing number of licensed options, they offer a quiet moment of solo downtime—without ever having to leave the garden chair.
Garden Centres Seeing a Summer Boom
With the warmer months in full swing, garden centres across Ireland are reporting an uptick in foot traffic and sales. According to the Irish Garden Centre Association, spending on outdoor living and planting supplies has risen by nearly 12% compared to last year.
If you're looking to upgrade your garden, browsing the list of local garden centres in Ireland is a great place to start. From native plants to stylish patio setups, it’s never been easier to create a space that invites both connection and calm.
Embracing 2025's Top Garden Trends
Want to take your garden to the next level this summer? This year’s standout trends include re-wilding, edible landscapes, and low-maintenance beauty. Many of these themes are covered in our post on how to embrace the garden trends of 2025, which includes tips on creating pollinator-friendly spaces and using tech to enhance—not replace—your green time.
From Offline Relaxation to Mindful Digital Time
The garden is no longer just for digging and planting. For many, it’s a retreat that blends the best of both worlds: unplugging from chaos while still enjoying the occasional podcast or digital distraction. Platforms like Headspace have even introduced outdoor meditation prompts, reinforcing the role of the garden as a space for mindfulness.
Whether you're sipping tea by your rose bush or trying your luck on your phone while soaking up the sun, one thing is clear: gardens in Ireland are flourishing—and so is their role in our everyday happiness.
