Have you ever wanted to create a tropical paradise in your own backyard?
There is something about tropical plants that make you feel like you are in an oasis. They're usually bright in color, and a great way to add character to your yard. Who doesn't want a colorful oasis in their garden?
You may be wondering how you can use tropical plants in your garden, or if you can even have tropical plants in your yard if you don't live in a tropical climate.
If any of these things have crossed your mind, you're in luck!
If you're not sure how to utilize tropical plants in your backyard, this article will give you everything you need to know about making your own tropical plant paradise!
Create Your Base for Your Tropical Oasis
To create a realistic-looking jungle in your backyard, there are several things to consider.
First of all, find some inspiration and create a design plan. Tropical plants vary in size and color so there are lots to choose from!
To create the base of your garden, think big, green, and lush.
Choose lots of options of big leaf tropical plants. This will make your backyard look like a real rainforest.
Consider planting a variety of ferns and palms as well. Layering lots of green tropical plants will give you a realistic, natural-looking backyard jungle.
Stacking your leafy tropical rainforest plants will give your backyard lots of depth and density.
Here are some leafy tropical plants to consider:
- Philodendrons
- Gunnera
- Ligularia
- Elephant Ears
- Palm trees such as Areca, Majesty, Bottle, Chinese Fan, Sago, or Date
- Ferns
- Hostas
Any of these would make your yard look lush and tropical.
Add More Texture
Rainforests have lots of texture. Now that you have established a solid, leafy foundation of tropical plants it's time to choose some accent textures.
Consider adding some vines or woody plants into your backyard jungle.
Adding bamboo to your garden is a great way to add texture and can also be used to create more privacy in your yard.
Vines can be used in a variety of different ways. You can get creative with it, having it spiral over fences or cascade down walls or standing features.
Here are some vines that will give your backyard a tropical feel:
- Bougainvillea
- Jasmine
- Mandevilla
These vines will also add beautiful blossoms or sweet fragrances to your backyard!
Add Pops of Color With Blooming Tropical Plants
You should have a pretty good foundation started for your tropical plant oasis. Now you can pick colorful blooming plants to bring your backyard jungle to life.
There are many options when it comes to tropical flowers. To create a warm, welcoming garden, select bright and bold colors to plant across your yard.
Your tropical paradise will start to come to life when you add these pops of color to your layered green background.
Here are some ways to add color with tropical flowering plants:
- Orchids
- Plumeria
- Alstroemeria
- Lily of the Valley
- Callas
- Cannas
- Pineapple Lilies
- Japanise Iris
- Agapanthus
- Colocasia
- Begonias
This is only a small sample of the tropical flowering plants to choose from!
Spice up Your Space
To take your backyard to the next step, you can make your tropical plant oasis a paradise perfect for relaxation by adding a few more things to your yard.
Picking out pieces of rainforest-inspired decor like water features or tiki torches can give your backyard space a tropical ambiance.
Adding light fixtures and lanterns can give you the freedom to enjoy your tropical plant heaven even after the sun goes down.
Warm light from hanging string lights will make you feel like you are on a relaxing getaway in a rainforest.
You can also select some outdoor furniture pieces that will allow you to sit out in the oasis you have created and fully enjoy your own personal tropical plant paradise!
Take Care Of Your Tropical Plant Paradise
Now that you have built your oasis, it is important to take care of it properly.
One of the most important things to remember is water, water, water!
Outdoor tropical plants are used to very humid climates and wet weather. If your climate is different, make sure to supplement by giving the plants lots of water.
If you live in a colder climate, make sure you go through the precautions to prepare your tropical outdoor plants for the winter.
Tropical plants are not used to cold weather and won't survive well if they are exposed to lower temperatures.
Make sure that your plants stay happy and thriving no matter where you live, create a comfortable climate for them to live in!
Enjoy Your New Tropical Backyard
Finding the right tropical plants to pair and blend in your backyard can help you create your own personal paradise no matter where you live.
With lush leaves, dramatic textures, and bold pops of color your yard will look and feel like a relaxing tropical rainforest.
Don't be discouraged if you live in a colder or dryer climate. There are steps you can take to enjoy tropical plants no matter where you live!
Of course, it is important to remember that some tropical plants will do better than others in different climates so make sure you do some research about your climate and find the best plants for you!
If you want to know more about taking care of tropical plants or want to know anything about gardening in general, check out our blog for updates on everything you need to know about plants and gardening!
