Do you dream of reproducing the charm of Provençal gardens at home in order to enjoy the typical atmosphere and sweet smells of your vacations without leaving home? Dare to create a Mediterranean garden! Choice of plants, exposure, structuring and decoration: follow our advice and soon, your garden will take on the sweet accent of the South.
Planting conditions
A Mediterranean garden is composed of carefree plants that require little maintenance once they are well established. A sloping garden with well-drained and not too rich soil will be ideal for the implantation of such plants. A southern exposure will allow the introduction of less hardy plants. Create stony areas that will store a maximum of heat during the day and release it throughout the night: the plants will be even more beautiful.
Choice of plants
Most of the plants in a Mediterranean garden accept difficult conditions: hot sun, violent and drying wind, lack of water. The only drawback is that they do not tolerate soil that is too humid and stagnant water at their feet.
As a sign of welcome to Provence, frame your entrance gate with two Italian cypresses. Very hardy, their only requirement is a well-drained soil. Another emblematic tree: the olive tree, proud of its tortuous trunk and foliage, can withstand temperatures as low as -15° for certain species, if its roots are not exposed to stagnant humidity. A light, well-drained, stony soil, located in full sun will be a perfect setting for its beauty. Beware of frost during the first three years: mulch the roots copiously in winter!
Dare to grow palms: some species are hardier than you might think: Butia capitata, or Washingtonia filifera can be grown in well-sheltered areas all over France. The Phoenix canariensis, famous on the French Riviera, should be reserved for regions with a fairly mild climate. On a well exposed slope, a yucca will bring structure, accompanied by succulents such as Sedums whose countless species and varied colors will quickly form carpets. Sempervivums will also find their place there as well as Graptopetalums and some Crassulas. Aeoniums and Aloes will adorn the winter with their spectacular flowering in warmer regions. You can also plant Agaves, which, if the climatic conditions are favorable, can reach very beautiful dimensions.
In the spring, plant lavender: fragrant and graphic, it will be wonderful at the edge of a bed or path. Reserve a very sunny space for aromatics: sage, thyme and rosemary will delight both your sense of smell and your taste buds.
For your hedges, think of oleanders. Choose a hardy species such as "little red" which can withstand a few brief frosts. These shrubs offer a long blooming period, which can last up to six months, and give off a sweet almond scent.
Citrus trees are to be reserved for the Mediterranean area, in the region known as the "orange tree". Elsewhere, grow them in large containers and winterize them in winter.
A very Mediterranean decoration
Large terracotta jars full of ivy geraniums, low dry stone walls forming benches for agapanthus and lavender, a ceramic cicada against the wall of the house, and the whole of Provence is invited into your garden!
