Gardening is all fun and games until temperatures climb into the high thirties and you're forced to watch your prized plants wither in the heat. If you struggle to keep up with garden care when it's this hot, it might be time to introduce Mediterranean plants to your plot.
Protecting a garden from the scorching summer sun is easier said than done, and with hot spells becoming not only more intense but also longer and more frequent, it may be time to rethink your planting choices – especially if you're after an outdoor space that's both beautiful and easy to maintain. The answer: Non-native varieties.
'People often think gardens are destined to struggle in a heatwave, but there are plenty of beautiful plants that positively thrive in hot, sunny conditions,' says Peter McDermott, founder of online garden centre YouGarden.
'Many Mediterranean varieties are used to coping with periods of drought and are a brilliant option if people want a garden that looks lush and impressive without constant watering.'
Olive trees
Olive trees, which Peter describes as the 'ultimate Mediterranean plant', add plenty of drought-tolerant foliage to your garden and, when fully grown, that all-important shade.
'They love sunshine, cope well with dry spells, and instantly give patios and gardens a holiday feel,' the plant expert explains. 'They're a great choice for people wanting something stylish and generally low maintenance.'
Phoenix palms and fan palms
Palm trees bring even more of that holiday feel. 'Phoenix palms and fan palms are particularly good options for sunny, sheltered spots and are becoming increasingly popular with UK gardeners,' Peter shares.
Oleanders and bougainvillea
If olive and palm trees offer foliage, oleanders and bougainvillaea provide floral colour. 'If you've ever wandered through a Mediterranean town lined with vibrant flowers, chances are you've spotted oleanders or bougainvillea,' Peter says. 'They thrive in warmth, produce masses of colour and are fantastic statement plants for patios.'
Related: The ultimate guide to growing bougainvillea in the UK
Agapanthus
Peter's personal recommendation? 'Agapanthus is one of my favourite summer plants because it combines elegance with resilience,' he says. 'It produces beautiful architectural blooms and is surprisingly tolerant of hot weather once established.'
Citrus trees, bay trees and fig trees
Round out the look with some sun-loving fruit trees. 'Container-grown citrus trees, figs and bay trees are brilliant for adding fragrance and texture,' Peter says. 'They work particularly well on terraces and patios where people can enjoy them up close.'
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