Step-by-step Advice on How to Plant a Tropical Garden

Recreate Paradise Around Your Home with a Tropical Masterpiece

By Maryellen Cicione, published Apr 09, 2006
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If you're yearning for the soothing fragrance and stimulating brilliance that only tropical blossoms can provide, then get out your gardening gloves and trowel. Many tropical plants and flowers grow quite well in just about any climate, and selection is as limited as your imagination. With careful planting and some tender loving care, in just a short time, you can create your own tropical garden and enjoy paradise right outside your window.

Getting Started
To begin your sensual garden, you must first choose the area(s) where you want to plant. To truly enjoy your tropical fantasy, try to select places that can be viewed through your home's doors and windows. Some locations to consider are your main entryway, by the back porch, under the kitchen window, or anywhere around your home where you can enjoy the aromatic blooms. Once you have your sites in mind, you need to decide the design of your garden. Perhaps you prefer to plant simple borders around your house, or you may choose to create an informal garden in a section of your yard. When deciding on the type of garden to plant, remember to take notice of sunny and shady spots in the areas you select. It will come in handy when choosing your plants and flowers. You also want to be sure the soil is good for planting. Your local garden shop can assist you in this area.

Choosing Your Tropical Display
Of course, a tropical garden would not be complete without Gingers, Heliconias, Plumerias, and Hibiscus. These are the plants that provide that intoxicating sweet fragrance so well known to the tropics. But with some attentive planting and maintenance, you can bring that aromatic wonder to your own home. Once in bloom, they are perfect as cut flowers, so you can enjoy them indoors and out.

Takeaways
  • Many tropical plants and flowers grow well in just about any climate.
  • For a truly dramatic display, plant a border with a mixture of perennials, annuals, and biennials.
  • Consider adding special touches, like a birdbath, gazebo, or statue fountain.
Did You Know?
Tropical gardens are popular because of their fragant bouquet and striking colors.
Resources
  • Tropical Gardening by David Bar-Zvi with Kathy Sammis. A well-illustrated paperback with plant descriptions and cultural information. From Pantheon Books; Retail Price: $25.
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