How to grow thriving tropical plants in any landscape

Tropical plants can be a beautiful addition to any garden, but growing exotic plants can be a challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, there are some key factors to consider when growing tropical plants. In this article, we’ll provide tips and advice on how to grow tropical plants in any climate. We cover plant selection, soil  and climate conditions, and managing sunlight and humidity levels. The good news is that  with the right knowledge and techniques, you can create a lush and vibrant tropical garden wherever you are.

Why you need tropical plants in your garden

It’s not quite that simple though

Incorporating tropical species into your landscape also comes with some challenges. It can be challenging to find tropical plants that can thrive in non-tropical areas. Tropical plants are native to warm climates with high humidity. This means they may not be well-suited to cooler or drier climates.

Tropical plants that are not cold-hardy will likely need special care during the winter months. This can include bringing them indoors or covering them with frost cloth.

Growing tropical plants outside their natural habitats makes it more difficult to keep them healthy. This means that they may be more susceptible to pests and diseases than other plants. Unhappy plants give off chemical signals that tell pests that the plant’s normal defenses are weak. This means pests like spider mites, aphids or mealy bug are more likely to attack your plants. Healthy plants are much less likely to have issues with pests and diseases.

It can be challenging to provide the appropriate soil conditions in non-tropical areas. Many tropical plants prefer soil conditions like those in their natural environment. For example, in tropical rainforests there is moist soil with lots of organic matter. 

Some tropical plants may not be readily available in non-tropical areas, making it difficult to source them for your landscape. By understanding these common challenges you are well on your way to understanding how to grow beautiful tropical plants.

What you need to know before you grow

Now that you are aware of the challenges you need to know how to overcome them. Firstly, consider the microclimates within your landscape. These are areas that receive more or less sun, wind exposure, or variations in temperature. You’ll also need to consider the temperature ranges, rainfall and humidity, and the length of the growing season in your area. Lastly, take note of any specific requirements or adaptations that certain plants may need to thrive in your environment.

​Observe the sunlight and shade patterns in your landscape throughout the day. Take note of which areas receive full sun, partial shade, or full shade.
Choose tropical plants that are suited to the light conditions of your landscape.

Different tropical plants have varying light requirements. Some plants thrive in full sun, while others prefer partial shade or low light conditions. Too much direct sunlight can be damaging to tropical plants. It can cause leaves to become pale, burn, turn brown, or even die. Consider the placement of taller plants to provide shade for more delicate or shade-loving tropical plants.

The duration of light exposure is also important. Indoor tropical plants generally need bright light but need to avoid being exposed to direct sunlight for more than an hour or two. This is especially important in the summer months when the sun is at its most intense. Avoid placing indoor plants near windows that get direct sun in the afternoons. If your indoor environment doesn’t get enough light you can supplement natural light with a grow light.

Take a look around your neighborhood for tropical plants that are thriving in your specific environment. Sourcing plants from your local garden centers is a great way to boost your success rate as they are already adapted to your climate. 

Now you know that when somebody asks you how to grow tropical plants, the answer is managing microclimates.

How to prepare soil for growing tropical plants

​Test the soil in your garden to check that the pH and nutrient levels are in the range for optimal plant growth. If there are deficiencies or imbalances in the soil you can correct it to create an ideal growing environment for tropical plants. Test your soil’s pH level and choose plants that grow best in the pH range of your soil. Most tropical plants prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range (between 6.0 and 7.0). However, some specific plants may have different pH preferences. 

Providing the right amount of water

Providing  adequate water and drainage is crucial for growing tropical plants. Overwatering can suffocate plant roots as the water pushes all the tiny air pockets out of the soil. Underwatering can cause growth to become erratic and stunted. There is no simple rule of thumb for regular watering as each plant has different needs. 

Watering frequency depends on various factors, such as the plant species, size, container size, soil moisture, and light intensity. The table below will help you to adjust your watering frequency

Variable	How to adjust your watering
Type of Plant	Different tropical plants have different watering needs. Some plants require more frequent watering than others.
Container Size	Plants in smaller containers may require more frequent watering than those in larger containers.
Soil Moisture	Check the soil moisture level before watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Light Intensity	Plants in brighter, sunnier locations may require more frequent watering than those in shadier locations.
Environmental Conditions	High temperatures and low humidity can increase the water needs of tropical plants.
Watering Method	Water the soil around the plant, not the foliage, to prevent fungal diseases. Water thoroughly but less frequently.

Watering more thoroughly, but less frequently helps get the water down to the deeper root tips. It is  better to water the garden before dryness really sets in, to keep the soil moisture levels even and avoid the soil being continuously dry. To use water in the most economical way, it’s best to water the soil around the base of the plant, not the foliage. This practice also helps to prevent fungal  diseases.

How to get well-draining soil

Tropical plants love rich, well-draining soil and good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and root rot. It’s important to avoid planting tropical plants in areas with poor drainage, such as low-lying areas or compacted soil. If the soil is not well-draining, you can add bark chips, coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage. For a long term solution you can install subsurface drainage.

Mulching techniques for growing tropical plants

Mulching offers several advantages and benefits to your garden. These include retaining soil moisture, suppressing weed growth, improving soil health, and protecting plants from temperature extremes. Mulch acts as a barrier, reducing evaporation and preventing weed seeds from germinating. It also helps regulate soil temperature, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter.  

There are two main types of mulch: organic and inorganic. Organic mulches, such as tree bark, leaves, and pine needles, break down over time and provide extra benefits to the soil. Inorganic mulches, like pebbles or rubber chips, offer longer-lasting weed suppression. They don’t contribute to soil health though. The organic/inorganic classification here is purely related to the type of material. It doesn’t mean that organic mulches are sourced from organic farms. If you are looking for mulch from organically grown sources you’ll need to read the label carefully or be very specific when you ask at your garden center.

Apply mulch in late spring or early fall to help prepare the garden for the growing season. It will also help to protect plants during temperature fluctuations. Mulching in spring helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Adding mulch in autumn or fall helps to insulate plant roots during winter. 

You’ll need enough for a 2-3 inch (5-8 cm) layer, ensuring that it covers the soil around plants but does not touch the stems or trunks of plants. This prevents moisture-related diseases and pests from affecting the plants. Spread mulch evenly around plants, extending it to the drip line or  beyond.

Managing sunlight exposure for tropical plants

It’s important to research the specific light needs of your plants and provide them with the appropriate amount of sunlight. When introducing tropical plants to full sun conditions, it’s important to do it gradually. Start by placing the plants in a shady area with bright indirect light and slowly move them into sunnier spots over a period of about two weeks.

Light intensity plays a crucial role in plant growth. The rate of growth and the plant’s metabolic processes, such as photosynthesis, are dependent on receiving adequate light. While increasing the number of hours of light exposure can be beneficial, plants still need some darkness. If you are using grow lights, avoid exposing plants to light for more than 16 hours per day.

Protecting plants from too much sun

There are many effective methods of managing sunlight exposure and protecting plants. Here are some strategies:

• Plan your garden layout strategically to create natural shade. Consider the placement of taller plants or structures that can provide shade to more sun-sensitive plants. You can also utilize vining vegetables or sun-loving plants to provide shade for others.
• Shade cloth is a lightweight fabric  with tiny holes that allows sunlight and water to permeate while blocking some of the intense sun. It can be draped over hoops, stakes, or other supports to create shade for individual plants or entire garden areas. Shade cloth is particularly useful during heatwaves or in hot  climates. It will have a rating such as 30% or 50% that tells you how much light it is blocking.
• Large patio or beach umbrellas, as well as shade canopies, are ideal to provide temporary shade for plants. You can move them around as needed  to protect plants from direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the  day.
• Take advantage of existing structures like trees, fences, or buildings to create natural shade for your plants. Position plants strategically to benefit from the shade provided by these structures.
• If a sunny window is too intense for your plants, you can use techniques to filter the light. This can include using sheer curtains, lattices, or shutters to partially block the sunlight and create dappled shade.
• Regularly observe the sun patterns in your garden and adjust the placement of your plants accordingly. Some plants may require more or less sunlight, so it’s important to understand their specific light  requirements.

Rotating potted plants

Tropical house plants and potted plants under patios should be rotated regularly. Rotating plants ensures that they receive an even amount of  light. It reduces lean and promotes new growth in areas that were  previously shaded. It also helps prevent the development of lopsided or  unbalanced growth. To ensure balanced sunlight exposure, rotate your plants a quarter turn about once a month. This is enough to maintain good foliar balance.

Here are some signs that a plant is not getting enough sunlight and needs to be rotated:

• If you notice that new growth is significantly smaller than older leaves, it may indicate that the plant is not receiving enough sunlight. Comparing the size of new leaves to older leaves can help determine if the plant needs more light.
• Leggy  growth refers to long, stretched-out stems with large spaces between  leaves. This occurs when plants are reaching for more light. If you  notice leggy growth, it’s a sign that the plant is not receiving adequate sunlight and needs to be rotated.
• If a  plant is leaning or growing in one direction to reach for sunlight, it is a clear sign that it is not receiving enough light. Rotating the plant will help ensure that all sides receive equal exposure to sunlight.
• Pale green or yellow leaves that drop off are indicators of inadequate sunlight. Variegated plants  may also revert to solid green leaves when they are not receiving enough light. If you notice these signs, it’s a clear indication that the plant needs more sunlight.
• Insufficient sunlight can lead to slowed or stunted growth. If you notice that your plant is not growing as it should or there is no new growth, it may be a sign that it needs more light.

How do I choose the right plants to create a tropical vibe in non-tropical climates? 

Try these tips and ideas for creating a tropical vibe:

• Consider growing cold-hardy tropical plants that can thrive in non-tropical climates. Some examples include bamboo, cannas, hardy banana, and hostas.
• Look for plants that have characteristics of the tropics. These include dramatic, architectural foliage and showy flowers in hot, clashing colors. Some of the best tropical plants include canna, elephant ears, musa basjoo (banana plants), and monstera plants.
• Inject life into garden borders by going tropical. Use plants with vibrant colors and dramatic foliage to add height and interest to the garden. Examples include ginger, bamboo and bird of paradise.
• Design and create a tropical backyard space by combining different types of tropical plants, water features, and outdoor decor. Use foliage plants with both small and large leaves in different shapes and add bright colors with flowering plants. Use bamboo fencing or thatch panels to create a tropical ambiance.
• Grow tropical plants in containers to create a tropical area on a balcony or patio. This is especially useful for plants that are not well-suited for non-tropical climates. Try snake plants, rubber tree or fiddle leaf fig.
• If you don’t have a garden or are in a colder climate consider tropical indoor plants such as ZZ plants, small palm trees or ficus plants.