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Creating a Tropical Paradise to Brave the British Weather

Creating a Tropical Paradise to Brave the British Weather

By Andrew Tweddle on 13th October, 2011

There are endless styles of garden to choose from, but one that always has a striking and bold look is a tropical garden. However, growing and maintaining a tropical garden in the unpredictable and often miserable British weather certainly presents a number of difficult challenges, for even the most experienced of gardeners. However, by taking the time to select plants and flowers that are able to survive in British weather, as well as other tropical features, you can still create a tropical paradise in your own back garden. Plus, the resulting effect will give a Decorated Shed garden office an interesting setting in which to sit perfectly.

Palm Trees

Palm trees are probably the best known tropical plant, and depending on the variety, can still thrive in even sub-zero conditions. One such variety is the fruiting date palm, which is suited to shade, as well as being able to tolerate wind and cold temperatures. In summer, when temperatures reach about 20°c, they will do most of their growing, but will still survive in winter. When they do begin to grow tall, they are a great way to border your garden, helping keep out the outside world.

Banana Plants

One of the main ways to create a tropical feeling in any garden is to add plants with very big leaves. However, most of these plants require high temperatures and take years to grow to a reasonable size. Banana plants are a great alternative, as they produce large leaves, but can survive in cold weather, and grow quickly compared to other large-leaved plants. The Japanese hardy fibre banana plant is a great example of this. The plant can survive in very cold temperatures, and while its leaves may die due to frost, they will quickly grow back.

Decking

Decking is a great way to add useable space to your garden, while helping to create a setting that wouldn’t be out of place on a remote tropical island. The decking can also create a walkway between your Decorated Shed garden office and your home. Surround your decking with tropical plants and flowers to help truly create a tropical paradise.

Tiki Torches

Tiki torches come in many different materials and styles, and are modelled on the torches used in traditional Polynesian design. A bamboo Tiki torch is one that is suited perfectly to a simple tropical garden, and adds warmth to the garden when lit. Even when they aren’t lit, they still add an extra element to the overall design.

While these are just some of the ways to create a tropical paradise in a UK garden, it does show that it is definitely possible. With some careful plant choice and a certain level of attention, a tropical garden is available to everyone. Whether you choose to create a meticulously detailed tropical garden or just add a few touches to your garden, a Decorated Shed garden office will always be at home in its surroundings. Plus, a garden office provides a comfortable place to enjoy your tropical paradise, whatever the British weather might throw at you.
 


Category:  Architecture and Design

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