Jungle planting
Even in a small garden you can create a lush jungle packed with tropical plants and exotic foliage.
Tropical gardening uses plants adapted for hot conditions. A combination of strappy, spiky, fluffy, tall, squat, subtle and strident plants, from colourful cannas and palms to exotic bananas gives an exotic feel.
Naturally you need plants that are sun-lovers, or they won't stand the extreme conditions. Be bold, plant densely and create contrasts using striking foliage and architectural plants.
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Fatsia japonica Plants from tropical regions of the world are often too tender to survive the British climate, but some can be included if you remember to protect them in winter with fleece or straw. Certain tropical plants grow well in dry soil such as phormium, others flourish in moist conditions such as gunnera and rodgersia.
Nature has equipped some plants especially for life in a hot environment, for example:
Dicksonia antarctica To appreciate your tropical garden you need a sun trap seating area hidden amongst the foliage. Choose seats that suit the spot such as chairs carved from tree stumps or a hammock strung between the trees.
If you include a terrace or patio ensure it is linked to the rest of the garden and connects places people need to go.
Use materials which fit with your design such as reed matting and bamboo for fencing. Evoke a striking urban jungle with a more industrial look by using patio containers made from recycled rubber tyres.
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