Resort style, coastal or jungle gardens and everything in between. Backyard, balcony or bathroom, we’ve got you covered.
There is something undeniably alluring about tropical gardens. Perhaps it’s the abundance of life, from the buzzing bees to the colorful birds that flit among the branches on a sunny day. Maybe it’s the sense of being transported to another world, far from the stresses and worries of everyday life. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that a well-crafted tropical garden has the power to captivate and enchant.
A successful tropical garden requires careful planning, a deep understanding of the needs of different plant species, and a keen eye for design. For those who are willing to put in the effort, the rewards can be extraordinary.
When we think of tropical gardens, we often focus on their aesthetic appeal. And rightly so – there is something undeniably alluring about a well-designed tropical landscape. But what we often overlook are the many other benefits that these gardens offer, both to individuals and to the broader environment.
Take, for example, the issue of biodiversity. In urban areas, green spaces can provide critical habitat for wildlife, supporting a wide variety of plant and animal species. And when it comes to climate control, tropical gardens can be a powerful tool. Trees and plants provide shade, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by buildings and pavement. This, in turn, can help to cool the surrounding air, reducing the urban heat island effect.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Plants in tropical gardens and landscapes can absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants from the air, helping to improve air quality. And they can help to manage water resources, reducing runoff and erosion. By absorbing and filtering rainwater, plants can reduce the amount of water that enters storm water systems.
Of course, the benefits of tropical gardens extend beyond the environmental realm. Spending time in nature has been shown to have a wide range of health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood, and promoting physical activity. And who can’t resist eating delicious sweet tropical fruits straight from their own garden? Well-designed tropical gardens can even have economic benefits with increased property values.
So let us not underestimate the power of the tropical garden. Yes, they are beautiful and enchanting outdoor spaces. But they are also so much more. A well-designed tropical garden has the power to transport visitors to another world, to instill a sense of wonder and tranquility, and to create a lasting impression that will stay with them long after they leave.
Of course, creating tropical gardens requires a great deal of skill and knowledge. It’s not simply a matter of planting a few palm trees, some showy flowers, popping in a water feature and hoping for the best. By incorporating a wide range of species into a garden, a skilled landscaper can create a rich tapestry of colors, textures, and shapes that is truly awe-inspiring.
If you’re looking to create your own tropical oasis, whether that be a miniature tropical rainforest or a display worthy of any botanical garden, then you’re in the right place. Follow our design and plant guides and you’ll be able to enjoy your own slice of paradise.
Tropical-style garden design applies the same elements of design that you will find in any well-planned garden:
Interaction
The primary reason we create gardens is to create experiences and feelings when we interact with the garden. Think about how people (and animals) will use and interact with the space. This includes how they will move through the space, how they will spend time in the space, and how they will maintain the space. It results in an inclusive environment that incorporates accessibility, fragrance, sight, touch, sound, taste, allergy/toxicity and function.
Physical space
Understanding the physical space examines water and light availability, seasonal temperatures and weather extremes. This includes managing scale, balancing proportion between different elements of the garden. It also includes managing elevation, using changes in level to divide the space.
Integration
Integration is creating harmony between the garden space and the surrounding environment. This includes neighboring buildings and gardens and even distant views. It also includes the balance of hard (non-plant) and soft landscape elements. It’s about making everything look like it belongs. Consider the views from inside looking out when designing the garden space. The transition from indoor to outdoor space should be visually and physically balanced. Interaction also considers onsite amenities and aims to keep related elements in close proximity.
We show you how to apply these three principles to create the tropical garden space that’s right for you. Select an example below to learn more about different tropical-garden styles
Low canopy jungle style
If you don’t have the space for large trees you can still create a cool and lush hideaway in your garden.
Formal tropical garden
All the symmetry, paths, focal points and clipped topiaries of a formal garden using tropical plants.
Resort style garden
Resort style tropical gardens feature expanses of lawn with repeat plantings in rows that are staggered in height.
Indoor tropical plants
Cluster your favorite houseplants in a light-filled corner of your home to create your little slice of paradise.
Drought-hardy tropical oasis
Climbers, palms, and succulents give you a tropic-themed green oasis in a water-wise garden.
Backyard tropical garden
Small spaces can achieve a tropical feel with canopy trees, lighting, sculptures and loads of tropical plants.