Landscape architect Chris Brown discusses resilient plant species in the face of a changing climate
In the quest for a thriving and resilient garden, UK gardeners are increasingly turning to climate-friendly plants that can withstand the country's diverse weather conditions. While specific recommendations from Chris Brown, a renowned musician with a passion for horticulture, were not readily available, we've compiled a list of general climate-resilient plants that are suitable for diverse UK gardens.
First on our list is the Alchemilla mollis, a tough and durable plant that excels in challenging conditions. Its foliage makes it an ideal choice for edging and adding texture to gardens[1]. The Fragaria vesca, or the Creeping Alpine Strawberry, is another versatile addition. Suitable for both dry and wet areas, this plant creates a resilient ground cover[1].
The Daylily (Hemerocallis lilioasphodelus) is a robust plant that can handle a variety of conditions, making it perfect for gardens with fluctuating weather[1]. The Rudbeckia subtomentosa 'Henry Eilers', known for its windproof, drought-proof, and rabbit-proof qualities, is an excellent choice for UK gardens[1].
For those seeking taller plants, Hollyhocks are a low-cost option that thrives in a variety of conditions, adding a pop of colour to gardens[4]. For shade-loving plants, the Heuchera thrives in both shade and semi-shade, and its flowers move gently in the breeze[3].
Other options include Roldana petasites, which resemble shrubby dandelions, and pomegranates, which can thrive in frost-free conditions found in some parts of the UK[2]. Common Fennel, with its aromatic, feathery leaves, is another low-maintenance plant that holds its shape in winter[3].
For those seeking more unusual options, the Alpine Scabious, with its soft yellow blooms, is great for pollinators and will gently self-sow in dry and gravelly conditions[3]. The Heuchera's favourite form, Rosea, produces small pale pinky-mauve flowers held in upright spires[3].
To ensure maximum resilience, it's advisable to plant in cooler months, water regularly during the first summer, and ensure the plants are well-established before relying on natural rainfall[1]. With these climate-resilient plants, UK gardens can flourish year-round.
- Interior design enthusiasts can incorporate elements of UK gardens into their lifestyle, such as the Alchemilla mollis, a tough and durable plant that adds texture to gardens.
- In the realm of environmental-science, climate-change poses challenges to gardens, but the Daylily (Hemerocallis lilioasphodelus) is a plant that can handle various conditions, making it suitable for diverse UK gardens.
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts can invest in the Rudbeckia subtomentosa 'Henry Eilers', a plant known for its windproof, drought-proof, and rabbit-proof qualities, to create a resilient and thriving garden, even in the face of challenging weather conditions.
- For those looking to decorate their homes with greenery, the Hollyhock is a low-cost option that, apart from flourishing in diverse conditions, also adds a pop of color to gardens, making it an attractive choice for both interiors and exteriors.
