Tropical Gardening
Ever fancied a tropical garden but not sure where to start? With some careful research and planning it is possible to replicate the sights and scents of one of the exotic gardens you may have visited on your travels.
Plant Type
Tropical gardening is more than just planting a few palm trees. There are several varieties of plant that will grow in the UK, including:
- Bougainvillea – a dramatic climber with profusions of pink, purple, white or salmon flowers
- Bamboo – for both decorative and practical use
- Ferns and grasses – elegant and ornamental
- Yucca – a stunning architectural plant
- Banana – recreate a tropical paradise
- Orange and lemon – the dwarf varieties should produce an abundance of citrus fruits
- Olive trees – elegant with their silvery-grey leaves
- Grape vines – choose the right variety and make your own wine, or just grow for decorative effect
- Cacti – unusual and individual succulent beauty
Tropical gardens are resplendent with big, bold foliage, created by numerous varieties of palms and plants that we often only use indoors. Study a tropical garden and you’ll see architectural splendour, interspersed with dramatic blooms like hibiscus, passion flower and oleander.
Tropical gardens have impact and can work well combined with the more traditional favourites such as geraniums, petunias, begonias and busy lizzies.
Depending on where you live you might find you can only grow some tropical plants for a limited time outdoors. Obviously, the further south and the warmer the situation you live in will affect the plants you can grow. Most tropical plants can be grown in pots and moved into a conservatory or greenhouse to protect them over the winter. Take note – many won’t survive the harsh dry atmosphere of central heating.
Maintenance
Tropical gardening requires a fair amount of time, dedication and careful management. Most plants of tropical origin won’t survive a UK winter outdoors unless well protected. Many will survive in a heated conservatory through the winter and must still be given enough water, light and food. Despite originating in sunny climates many tropical plants don’t like full sunlight, so their location needs to be planned carefully. They certainly need to be protected from wind and heavy rainfall.
There are many tropical garden specialists on the internet, supplying plants and advice. Do your research and make sure you’re buying from a reputable company who have experience in this type of gardening. If possible visit them to get some face to face advice.
Oriental Gardening
The oriental garden is worthy of its own feature but should be mentioned as an arm of tropical gardening. If you’re a fan of formality and structure why not create a Japanese garden?
You don’t have to devote your whole garden to this theme; just a dedicated area that can be used as a space for tranquillity. The formal design of a Japanese garden aims to bring harmony with nature, creating a calming effect with the use of stones, water features, exotic plants and ornaments.
Finally, don’t forget to string up a hammock to relax in and enjoy those moments of quiet contemplation!
