Climatic conditions

06 Apr 2018

Much like humans, plants thrive in certain environments. Here’s a breakdown of what plants work best depending on the conditions around them.

We tend to think of gardens as a space that we can design and cultivate according to our taste. This is true, to some degree, but plants require certain conditions to truly thrive.

Like all living things, plants have evolved over hundreds and thousands of years to suit their native environments. Tiny details, such as root systems, colour and reproductive methods have all adapted to suit certain climatic conditions and respond to environmental threats, including pests and extreme weather. Here, we give a few tips for finding plants that suit
your garden's climate.

Coast

It takes an especially hardy plant to grow in coastal environments. They need to withstand a strong ocean breeze, thrive in soil with a high level of salt and acidity, and tolerate the occasional sea spray. These plants might seem delicate and pretty, but they are tougher than they seem, and are perfect for a coastal garden.

LAVENDER

Native to the Mediterranean, lavender has adapted to thrive in dry, sunny, windy environments. Better still, it also grows best in alkaline, sandy soil.

RUGOSA ROSE

Known colloquially as the ‘Beach Rose’, this flower is native to the coastal area of Rhode Island in the US. They grow best in direct sunlight and sandy soil with a slightly salty ph level.

Country

There’s a reason that the country garden has a glittering reputation in the world of horticulture. Inland, temperate environments lend themselves perfectly to flourishing, abundant gardens.

ASTER

A member of the daisy family, Asters are mostly frost-resistant, and have been known to grow
in alpine environments, making them perfect for slightly colder climates. They thrive in slightly moist soil, so they can be a great addition to a garden in an area that is prone to bouts of rain.

ASTILBE

Country gardens are one of the few Australian environments with the conditions this plant requires. A native of Eastern Asia it is best suited to woodland conditions, with light, moist soil and dappled sunlight. Like the Aster, they are tolerant to heavy rains, making them the ideal candidate for a garden in a cooler environment.

Desert

Central Australia is more renowned for its arid landscapes than it is its vegetation. But there are many plants that not only survive in these challenging conditions, but thrive.

PEPEROMIAS

These plants are technically succulents and their sophisticated water storage system enables them to go for extended periods of time with small amounts of water. As they mature they develop large, thin leaves and eventually flower.

DESERT ROSE

Native to Africa and the Middle East, these plants are well suited to the similarly dry climate in the Australian outback. They thrive in direct sunlight with well-drained soil. Better still, they are resistant to most pests and only require small amounts of water.