Embracing the seasons: A gardener’s guide on how to thrive all year-round in Spain

Gardening in Spain is a joy, each season has its own palette of colours and opportunities, and the mild climate makes it possible to be creative and work with leafy plants all year around. Since you’re fortunate to be located on the sunny Costa del Sol, you have the opportunity to transform your Spanish garden to a year-round paradise. In this guide, we’ll explore the diverse beauty of Spain’s seasons and how to maximise your outdoor space with carefully chosen plants and flowers.

 

Autumn: Harvesting tranquillity

As the temperature drops, your garden gradually transforms into autumn mood. Now is the season for the late-blooming flowers like Dahlias and Chrysanthemums which will make your garden maintain a lively atmosphere. Spice up your garden with ornamental grasses and autumnal foliage. If you’ve been planting vegetables like winter squash, broccolis and pumpkins during the spring, this is the time to harvest and indulge in these treasures, also adding both beauty and bounty to your space.

 

Winter: A serene retreat

While winter in Spain is mild compared to many other regions, it’s still a season of rest for the garden. Now it’s the perfect time to use evergreen plants like Cypress and Bay Laurel to maintain greenery throughout the year. Add pops of colour with winter-flowering plants such as Camellias and Pansies. Just because it’s winter it doesn’t mean you can’t spend time outside, now it’s the time to enhance your outdoor living with cosy seating areas, warming fire pits, and strategically placed outdoor lighting for extra cosiness when the evenings arrive early.

 

Spring: Bursting with bloom

As winter bids farewell, spring sweeps in with a burst of vitality. This time is the time for new beginnings, so embrace the season by planting vibrant blossoms like Bougainvillaea, Azaleas, and Tulips. Consider introducing fragrant herbs such as lavender and rosemary for a sensory delight. Spring is also an ideal time for pruning and preparing your garden for the warmer months ahead.

 

Summer: Flourishing under the sun

In the scorching Spanish summer, select plants that thrive in the sun’s embrace. Oleanders, Geraniums, and Succulents are excellent choices for vibrant summer colours and minimal water requirements. Create shaded areas with pergolas or trellises, allowing you to enjoy your garden even during the hottest days.

 

Year-round tips:

 

1. Diversify plant selection: Choose a mix of evergreen and seasonal plants to ensure your garden has visual interest throughout the year.

 

2. Adapt watering practices: Adjust watering schedules based on the season, providing enough hydration during warmer months and reducing it in winter.
3. Create functional spaces: Designate areas for different purposes, such as a summer lounge, a springtime flower bed, or a cosy winter retreat with a fireplace and lamb skins covered chairs.
4. Invest in quality outdoor furniture: Choose durable, weather-resistant furniture that brings comfort as well as aesthetic appeal to your outdoor experience in every season.
5. Utilise garden structures: Install pergolas or arbours to provide shade during the hot summer and act as a support for climbing plants.
6. Embrace container gardening: Incorporate potted plants for versatility, allowing you to move them based on seasonal needs or aesthetics.

 

At La Menara we see the Spanish garden like a canvas waiting for our creative touch throughout the seasons. By carefully creating a diverse selection of plants and implementing thoughtful design elements, we can help you transform your outdoor space into a little year-round paradise. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for planning your dream garden during any season of the year. Embrace the ever-changing beauty of Spain’s seasons and let us craft your garden to be a reflection of the vibrant and dynamic nature that surrounds you!