Grow exotic garden plants

Start to grow exotic garden plants, and you will bring a tropical feel to your garden. It is easier than you might think with a few tips and tricks, plus the right plants for the right place. You might be surprised to find just how many exotic plants are both available in the UK and very tolerant of the weather conditions. Many will even survive a freezing winter. A great gardening method is to get stuck in and give it a go, and that’s most definitely the way forward with exotic plants. They will surprise and delight you right there in your own garden. 

How to grow exotic garden plants 

Exotic plants are no different to any other plant in that they need to have the right conditions to grow. Many exotic garden plants are much more hardy and tolerant of cooler weather than you might think. As ever, check the labels and do your research or ask in the garden centre where you are purchasing. Think about your own garden, where the sun is, what the soil condition is and if they like humidity. You can actually create your own mini microclimate with a backdrop of trees protecting against wind and colder weather as well. 

Grow exotic garden plants in small spaces 

It can be quite easy to do this because you can put many plants in pots close together, which helps create that microclimate in a small space. Pick taller plants at the back and smaller ones at the front, so you have a mini garden on a patio or balcony. There is something very satisfying about growing in a small space. Don’t forget your vertical areas because they are many climbing plants that will give the tropical feel. 

Which to choose to grow exotic garden plants 

• Albizia (Silk Tree) has the most wonderful pink flowers that face upwards and look a bit like a brush with mimosa shaped foliage. This can even be grown in a pot, so size is no restriction. 

• Fatsia has huge foliage and makes such a great statement in the garden. It is another that can also be grown in a pot. Try Fatsia polycarpa ‘Green Fingers’, which will grow well even in a shady spot. 

• Hedychium (Ginger Lily) adds a very cool taste of the tropics to a garden. The foliage is like a banana plant (which is also a great addition to an exotic garden), but the flowers are beautiful. 

• Canna plants have to be part of an exotic garden scheme. Growing tall with beautiful foliage, vibrant flowers and great as a mixed planting scheme or in a pot. 

• Colocasia (Elephant Ears) have huge big stunning leaves from green to deep purple. They can grow extremely well in a sheltered spot with something colourful in front. 

Start growing exotic plants in your garden from our range in store. We have a wonderful assortment ready to be picked and planted in your garden or on your balcony or roof terrace. Find yourself a matching pot, too.