Planting a garden on the Costa del Sol needs to take the climate into consideration. To start with, there are months of hot sun with no rain, but that doesn’t mean the only plants that will survive are succulents, such as cacti. There is ample opportunity to inject the sumptuous array of colours that you see in southern Spain simply by letting us help you make the right selection of plants and place them in the spaces where they will thrive. The Spanish soil is also quite different to that of the typical Northern European garden, and this needs to be taken into account when choosing the plantings; let’s just say that hydrangeas for example don’t take well to the soil in the hottest areas of the Costa del Sol, but may do well in the cooler, mountainous interior. 

Sun-loving plants

Gardens tend to have areas that are fully exposed to the sun and you might be surprised at how many plant types can thrive in such conditions. Geraniums, often seen in Spanish window boxes, love it, and even the rose is not averse to the heat. We’d also recommend bougainvillea, hibiscus, jasmine and lobelia. Chilli plants are another option, and you’ll be able to use them for cooking too! The key to ensuring that the more delicate plants survive is good irrigation, which we can advise on and install as well. During the winter months there is likely to be sufficient rainfall to keep the ground moist, but in summer gardeners rely on hosepipes and irrigation to keep plants and grass in a healthy state. 

Plants that need less water

Reducing the amount of water required also reduces your water bill. With that in mind, we’d suggest planting lavender, oleander, hot climate herbs and palms. Succulents, such as yucca, aloe and agave, also look outstanding in a Spanish garden. 

Endemic species such as olive trees and cypresses are ideal, as they are perfectly adapted to the local climate and rainfall, while the use of aggregates and inert materials also help maintain your garden with a minimum of work and watering. Make the most of your Mediterranean garden by creating shaded areas, either through porches and pergolas with climbing plants, or trees that create cooling spots. Low-impact fountains with water ripples also provide a cooling, soothing effect, while the classic Andalusian courtyard with fountain and small orange trees creates a time-tested way of introducing intimacy and privacy, as well as cooler air.

 

 

Remember, gardening is not just about plants and soil, it is also about designing special zones with the help of pergolas, seating and benches in cool spots and/or with lovely views, and generally those lovely areas in which you can relax, contemplate and feel close to the beauty of nature. Fruit trees and herbs such as thyme, rosemary, basil and lavender add easy-maintenance beauty and aromas that blend with jasmine, orange blossom and the perfume of roses and other floral fragrances to enhance the sensory impact and pleasure your garden provides.

We will be happy to recommend the best plants for your garden: ones that create an attractive colour scheme and an oasis of scents that mark the Mediterranean garden. Contact us for a chat and more information about our service.