How to create a tropical garden

If the summer heat drives you crazy, then perhaps you should consider resort style living and go troppo instead!

It’s well known that surrounding yourself with green life will reduce the temperature of your space considerably, so why not embrace our sub-tropical climate and chill!

Think BIG… big leaves, architectural plants, tall screens, large urns, statement sculptures, bold flowers… this is, after all, a style that needs to feel lush.

Colour

Consider your colours. A cooling palette of green and white is refreshing, classic and easy to work with. Palms, Heliconia, Strelitzia (bird of paradise) and Alocasia (elephant ears) give you height and fabulous foliage structure. Under plant with Philodendrons (Xanadu, Monstera, Birkin) ferns and bromeliads to act as groundcovers and create a tiered effect. Simple gravel paths eliminate the need for mowing. Add pavers or stepping stones throughout the path for bare foot wandering.

Of course, if a riot of colour is more your style, then go bold… no pastels here! Cordylines, Crotons, Fittonia and Coleus offer year-round foliage colour and the enormous varieties of bromeliads will have you spoilt for choice. Many tropical flowering plants choose to show off in the warmer months with frangipani, bougainvillea, gingers, hibiscus, agapanthus and orchids all blooming once the temperatures rise.

Water

Water is the essence of a tropical garden. A beautiful carved stone bowl, bird bath, fountain, rain chain or pond add to the ambiance and provide respite from the heat for birds and wildlife. If space is available, water plants are a wonderful addition with varieties that are flowering or edible. A misting system adds a magical rainforest feel creating pockets of moss and ferns. And don’t forget an outdoor shower - a practical luxury for refreshing after a beach day or working in the garden.

Decor

Finishing touches personalise your zone. A quiet corner with an outdoor chair or hammock for retreating or enjoying a cooling afternoon drink allows you to make the most of the space. A sculpture, urn or collection of potted plants can provide a focal point or be strategically positioned throughout the garden to add texture, colour and wonder. Up-lights under palm trees turn the simple into the spectacular at night and create an oasis for outdoor dining. But most importantly, fill the space. A tropical garden is never sparse, it should feel generous, inviting and your little slice of paradise.

Happy Gardening!

TOP TIPS

• Buy tropical plants in spring/summer when they’re at their best

• Keep it simple by planting multiples of the same plant

• Layer with plants of various heights

• Create a focal point