Having lived in the beautiful Tropical North Queensland for over 20+ years, we have a fair few tips and tricks up our sleeves when it comes to gardening in the tropics. We’re thinking Daintree greens, tropical fruits and colourful flowers that make you experience tropical vibes right as you step from your front door.
Here are a few of our favourite tips when working with tropical landscapes.
1 – Plant Selection
Nothing says the tropics than lots of colour and layered foliage which is why tree, plant and flower selection is certainly key. Birds of paradise, peace lilies, and philodendron are some low cost and low maintenance plants that enjoy warm and humid environments making them the perfect starters for your tropical garden.
2 – Create the Perfect Microclimate
It is important to plan and prepare the areas in your garden before your plant, and understanding and establishing your gardens microclimate will help your plants grow big and green. Research which of your plants are fast growing and will grow tall, and layer those that creep and require less sunlight underneath. This also means understanding which areas of your house get the most sun and during which parts of the day.
3 – Grow a Pineapples (or other tropical fruits)
Reap the fruits of your labour, and plant some tropical fruits along the way. Pineapples, lemons, limes and bananas will not only add to your tropical garden aesthetic but are easy to grow, and delicious!
4 – Soil Drainage/ or Irrigation
In an area that experiences high rainfall, it is important that your grounds aren’t left soggy and stagnant. Make sure you spend time time ensuring your gardens have good drainage, raised garden beds, and that you divert surface run-off to reduce the risk of wet grounds which is unhealthy for plant life. Alternatively, if your experiencing minimal rain, make sure your sprinkler system keeps your garden well-watered.
5 – Let yourself ‘Go-Troppo’
Find your tropical inspiration, whether it’s balinese-bungalows or a hawaiian-holiday. Have some fun with stepping-stone pathways, timber furniture, lights and lanterns hanging and large plant-pots and bowls. Take the time to get arty and let yourself get tropical!